If your roof has suffered at the hands of the elements over the years, it may have been damaged. Very often, the only way homeowners or business owners discover this is when water leaks through the roof or structural damage becomes apparent.
By this time, the cost of fixing these problems can be pretty high.
However, there are a couple of ways to protect your roof and avoid these costly and unwelcome scenarios. First, regular roof inspections are a great idea, as you can take action before the worst has happened.
Second, you can invest in roof sealing from the Roof Wash Team!
Also called roof tile sealing (although not just for tiles), this is a process where a protective layer in the form of a roof coating is applied to your existing tiles or roofing material.
A common question is, does roof coating stop leaks? In the majority of cases, the coating is sprayed onto the surface in ultra-thin layers using professional high-pressure spraying equipment. This allows the painters to achieve a super-smooth finish across the entire roof, providing a seamless, water-resistant* barrier.
*Some coatings change the chemical structure of porous roof tiles, essentially making them waterproof
Roof sealing offers many potential benefits, making it a wise investment for thousands of home or business owners.
Here are some of the main benefits that Roof Wash Team customers enjoy:
Many homeowners wonder, can you make roof tiles waterproof? Roof coatings seal up cracks and gaps, preventing rainwater penetration into the roof structure. This helps to drastically reduce the risk of leaks, water damage, mould, damp and rot issues.
With rainfall predicted to increase due to climate change, this could be a lifesaver for countless roofs across the UK, especially in places that are traditionally wetter.
In addition to providing a protective layer against rainfall, roof sealing can guard against damage from UV rays in sunlight. Ultraviolet light eventually causes roof tiles to fade and become brittle, making them more vulnerable to frost damage.
Roof moss and algae growth are seriously bad news. While moss, lichen and algae are common sights, found on most roofs, it's best to get rid of them if possible.
To begin with, the roots of these growths burrow into the tiles, increasing the risk of cracks and damage. Also, organic growth traps moisture which freezes in winter, forcing cracks open and damaging the tiles even more.
Moss and algae also trap debris and dirt, which, along with moisture, adds to the stress on the roof structure.
A dirty, faded, moss-infested roof doesn't look pretty and gives off a negative 'vibe'. Pollution and carbon deposits add to the problem, staining roof tiles and other materials and spoiling their appeal. This is a real problem in urban areas, along with staining and damage from bird droppings.
Applying a fresh roof coating will immediately transform your entire property. Whether you stick with the original colour or opt for a change, the vibrant shades will be appealing and eye-catching - effectively, it will look like you have a new roof!
Roof sealants and coatings are generally cheaper than costly repairs and replacements - and that's a fact.
A new roof will, on average, cost around £7,000 but can set you back by £20,000 or more.
While replacing a tile or two may not break the bank, these small expenses add up over the years. And it's not just the roof tiles that will be affected: damaged tiles can lead to other problems with your gutters, downpipes, soffits, fascias and the entire roof structure.
Keeping your roof tiles in great shape by investing in a good quality roof sealer can save you a fair amount of money and hassle!
This is considered an environmentally friendly option for several reasons:
The process is quicker than other painting options and is definitely less disruptive than major repairs or roof replacement.
However, it's essential to pick a reliable roof coating company, like Roof Wash Team, if you want a perfect, professional finish.
First, we inspect your roof to see what it needs. We’ll look for moss, dirt, and any signs of damage. After the assessment, we’ll give you a clear quote. Once you’re ready, we start the cleaning.
Next, we carefully remove all the moss and dirt by hand. This takes a bit of time, but it’s essential for a deep clean. Clearing away moss and grime makes your roof look fresh and helps prevent future damage.
Finally, we give your roof a gentle wash using a special cleaning solution. This step removes any remaining dirt and keeps your roof protected. The soft wash also helps keep your roof cleaner for longer.
Roof Wash Team offers a range of coatings and sealants that are suitable for most roof materials, including porous roof tiles, flat roofs and metal roofs.
These examples illustrate this in more detail:
Roof sealing for clay tiles is beneficial because these tiles are naturally porous and can absorb moisture over time. This can lead to issues like cracking during freeze-thaw cycles, particularly in colder climates. A proper sealant prevents water penetration, reducing the risk of damage and moss growth. It also enhances the tiles' resistance to UV rays, helping to preserve their colour and structural integrity.
Asphalt shingles are commonly used in the UK as they are relatively cheap and easy to install. With a lifespan of around 20 to 30 years, they could benefit from a roof coating. Broken tiles are a common problem as they become brittle and less flexible over time.
While they don't have porous surfaces like other examples, they are vulnerable to moss and lichen which can contribute to damage and reduce the lifespan of your roof.
Concrete tiles are durable but porous, and over time, they can become susceptible to moisture absorption, which may lead to surface degradation, moss, and algae growth. Sealing concrete tiles creates a waterproof barrier, preventing water ingress and helping the roof resist harsh weather conditions. Additionally, sealants protect against UV exposure, which can cause concrete tiles to fade or crack.
Though slate tiles are naturally water-resistant and extremely durable, roof sealing provides extra protection by preventing water from seeping through any cracks or joints between the tiles. Sealing helps maintain the roof’s appearance by preventing moss and lichen build-up, which can damage the tiles over time. It also enhances the tiles' resistance to freeze-thaw cycles, ensuring they remain intact in variable weather conditions.
Metal roof materials are susceptible to corrosion and discolouration, resulting in extensive damage and an unsightly appearance.
Applying a roof sealer dramatically reduces the risk of corrosion and instantly improves the aesthetic appearance of your roof.
You can also choose a roof sealer with UV protection and thermal protection. These guard the surface against damage from UV rays and reduce heat absorption, helping to lower your energy bills.
Although they're not as common these days, some roofs still have their original asbestos (cement) roof sheets.
Asbestos (and friable asbestos in particular) is a hazardous material requiring special treatment and careful handling. Removing asbestos can be a lengthy and expensive process, and many consumers prefer to avoid this if possible.
In some cases, Roof Wash Team can apply a roof coating that seals in the asbestos, eliminating the risk of harmful fibres escaping. This process extends the life of your roof at a fraction of the cost of removal and replacement!
If you have a flat roof (especially an older one) you may have experienced issues with leaks or pooling, as these are common problems.
While some coatings manufacturers produce sealants purely for pitched roofs, some products are suitable for flat surfaces and will prevent pooling, cracking and degradation.
This highly protective roof coating will add to its water resistance and flexibility, increasing its lifespan considerably.
As experts in the field, we're happy to advise you on this matter. If you tell us what roof material you have, we'll let you know which sealer is the best for you. And if you're not sure what your roof is made of, we'll check it for you!
There are several types and brands to choose from, so choosing the correct sealer for your roof can be tricky. Essentially, they're divided into three groups:
These coatings are water-based, making them eco-friendly and easy to apply. They provide good UV protection and are breathable, allowing trapped moisture to escape while still protecting against water penetration. Understanding how long acrylic roof coating lasts is essential for maintaining its effectiveness.
They are particularly effective in areas with moderate weather conditions.
Silicone is highly durable and excellent at repelling water, making it ideal for tile roofs in areas with frequent rain or humidity. It also offers superior UV protection, ensuring that silicone roof coating lasts effectively in these conditions.
Ideal for wet and humid environments, or regions with heavy rainfall.
These coatings are flexible and stretch to accommodate the natural movement of tiles due to temperature changes. They also offer strong water resistance and UV protection.
These coatings are great for roofs in areas with large temperature fluctuations, as they can prevent cracking or splitting.
If you need more information on any of these coatings, we can provide a technical data sheet for each one.
We start with a consultation where we ask you a few questions, such as:
Don't worry if you're not sure of the answers, as the next step involves a thorough inspection and assessment. We ask these initial questions to save time and allow us to prepare an accurate quote for you.
Once we have gathered all the relevant information, we submit a plan of work that includes a project schedule, your preferred colour scheme, and the type of coating required. This will also include the proposed cost.
If you agree to the plan, we carry out a full risk assessment on the roof and survey the site for any damage.
In some cases, roof coatings manufacturers like to carry out their own survey, so time will need to be allowed for this to take place.
When the inspection and surveys are completed, we clean the entire roof. Our team will brush loose debris and dead moss using scrapers and brushes, then use other methods to thoroughly clean the area. This may include pressure washing, steam cleaning or any method we believe to be suitable.
All areas that are not to be sprayed are masked carefully or covered with plastic sheeting.
The first coat is applied using a spray lance and left to dry before the next coat is added. We pay special attention to sheet edges (when spraying roof sheets), corners and all gaps or joints that may be overlooked.
The coverage rate depends on the material in question; porous roof tiles will generally require more sealant than non-porous materials.
Once the roof coating is completely dry, we check to make sure the coverage is smooth, even and perfect. Our tenacious team won't stop until everything looks as it should, as per our strict high standards.
We tidy up the site, leaving it in excellent condition.
As roof coating professionals, we offer a full range of services, from full encapsulation to cut-edge treatment to lining your gutters!
When you require a reputable, reliable roof coating company, Roof Wash Team is the clear winner.
Why not contact us now to talk about your roof coating needs? We are approved contractors for many roof coating brands, with a wealth of knowledge and experience that we'll put to good use on your roof.
A roof sealing service involves applying a protective coating to your roof to prevent water damage and leaks. This process enhances the durability and lifespan of your roofing system.
Roof sealing is important because it safeguards your roof against moisture infiltration, which can lead to costly repairs. Sealing your roof also improves energy efficiency by reducing heat loss.
You should seal your roof every 3 to 5 years, depending on the type of roof and environmental conditions. Regular inspections can help determine the best schedule for your specific roof.
Yes, roof sealing can effectively prevent leaks by creating a waterproof barrier over vulnerable areas. This proactive measure protects your home from potential water damage.
Roof sealing typically involves using high-quality sealants and coatings designed for durability and weather resistance. These products vary based on your roof type and specific needs.
Maintaining your roof after sealing includes regular inspections and cleaning to remove debris. It's also essential to address any issues promptly to ensure the sealant remains effective.
