It’s important that roof coatings are applied during certain weather conditions in order to receive the benefits and full effectiveness of the roof coating. While Phoenix experiences significant heat for large parts of the year and relatively warm winters, the area does experience freezing temperatures dipping below 32 degrees Fahrenheit on occasion. More frequently than that, you will see winter days that stay below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s important to understand when you should or should not apply a roof coating based on the weather conditions. To begin, 55 degrees Fahrenheit is the minimum temperature, but there is more that needs to be considered than this specific number. The following information will deepen your understanding and allow you to better answer customer and client questions regarding roof coating in cold weather.
Necessary conditions for applying roof coatings
Cold temperatures, moisture, and sunlight will all impact your ability to successfully apply a roof coating in the Phoenix area. It’s understandable that you need to understand what variables affect the application process and how. For example, if the forecast is completely dry for several days, it would be ok to apply an elastomeric roof coating in temperatures between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Phoenix experiences extreme weather conditions and it’s important that your roof coating is applied in the appropriate conditions to enjoy the full benefits of the application.
Moisture
It’s vital to the effectiveness of a roof coating that the curing process happens in appropriate conditions. As these roof coating products are water-based, it’s crucial that the product is not exposed to additional moisture or freezing temperatures during the curing window.
During the winter months while Phoenix experiences cooler temperatures, there is more moisture in the air than other times of the year. This is most visible in the morning when water gathers on cars and rooftops. It’s is critical that roof coatings not be applied while there is still water on the surface as this might cause adhesion issues.
Sunlight
Because direct sunlight contributes to the curing process, shade caused by parapet walls, trees, valleys, A/C units, and solar panels can delay the curing process and will require more time in appropriate warm and low moisture conditions. It’s also important to consider the overnight forecast as well as expected conditions of the next several days. It is entirely possible that the application process begins during appropriate conditions of sunny and 55 degrees Fahrenheit, but if cooler temperatures and/or moisture move in over night, the curing process can be interrupted and the coating might lose effectiveness.
You will need to be certain that coatings have time to cure before frost settles at night. This occurrence can vary from night to night during the colder months and, simply put, needs to be evaluated on a daily case-by-case basis.
About Everlast Coatings
We understand the challenges you will face as you apply roof coatings during the cooler months and we’re eager to share our expertise to assist you in this process. At Everlast Coatings, we’ve been developing our expertise and understanding of the industry and local climate for over 25 years.
In summary, 55 degrees Fahrenheit is a safe temperature to apply our roof coating products as it will allow for proper curing. However, there are factors such as overnight temperatures and moisture levels to consider.
Please contact Everlast Coatings with any questions you have. Whether it be about appropriate application conditions or the best product for your next job, we’re standing by to help you!