Though construction companies make roofs to withstand outdoor elements,leaks are still a common risk to your roof. Leaks lead to water damage that will ruin your ceiling, attic, walls, and overall structural integrity. Roof leaks sound easy to fix with the products available in hardware shops but they might offer temporary fixes to leaks.
Metal roof repair for leaks, in most cases, involves the application of a sealant on the affected part. The choice of a sealant in this instance involves a consideration of several elements. These include the sealant’s cohesion, reactivity, movement capability, stress resistance, adhesion, climatic stability, and elasticity, among others.
Here are the types of roof sealants you can use:
Polysulfide Sealants
These elastomeric sealants cost a bit more compared to other options. They nonetheless have excellent weather resistance and last for approximately twenty years. Polysulfide sealants have long curing times and are often applied over primed surfaces.
Silicone Sealants
These products come in several formulations. The most popular ones, however, are acetoxy-cure and oximo-cure sealants.
Acetoxy sealants are resistant to discoloration stemming from prolonged exposure to UV rays. Even so, they are not suitable for metal roofs owing to their risk of corrosion.
Oximo-cure silixane sealants, on the other hand, have optimal adhesion, are resistant to most weather elements, and work with metal roofs. They are, however, prone to discoloration after exposure to UV rays.
Both silicone sealants can withstand ponding situations well. They are not used on substrates that release oil and heat since these weaken their adhesion.
Polyether Sealants
These moisture-cure sealant types offer about 20-30 years of useful life when properly applied. Polyether sealants possess optimal adhesion and apply well in places with extreme weather conditions without destroying the roofing material. They are also eco-friendly, cure fast, and are easy to apply.
Acrylic Sealants
These are inexpensive water-based options for repairing leaking roofs. Acrylic sealants are highly reflective, easy to work with, and UV-resistant. They are also resistant to extreme weather changes and dirt. These sealants will not affect the original shape of your roof. Even so, these sealants do not hold up well to ponding water and will lose their thickness over time.
Polyurethane Sealants
These have the highest impact resistance of all sealants. They are thus used on roofs that handle a lot of foot traffic.
Polyurethane sealants are available in aliphatic and aromatic variants. The aliphatic sealants stay clean, hold color well, and are UV-stable though expensive. The aromatic options are inexpensive but are often used as base coatings because they are not UV stable. Though more resistant to water ponding compared to acrylic sealants, both polyurethane sealant types possess strong odors.
The above roofing sealants repair the leaks on your roof and also boost your roof’s UV protection and fire resistance. Professional roofers will also recommend them for waterproofing your roof, preventing mold growth, and reducing heat in the attic.
