When is a Commercial Roof Restoration the Right Choice?

Are you ready to do something about your leaky or rusted commercial roof? Is your roof a good candidate for restoration, or does it require a tear-off and replacement? There are many factors to consider when determining the most cost-effective solution. Depending on the condition of your roof, you might assume a full tear-off is required, but before jumping to conclusions, it’s important to understand the Inland SEBS roof restoration process.

Roof Restoration Process

Roof restoration typically involves applying a durable, water-resistant roof coating system. First, seams, penetrations, and exposed fasteners are sealed and reinforced to ensure high-risk leak areas are watertight.  Products such as RC-2250 Flashing Compound and RC-2500 Mastic are used during this step.

Next, the coating system is applied over the entire roof. This is usually a multi-coat process that seals and protects the existing roof surface, extending its service life well beyond normal expectations. Inland-approved commercial roofing contractors evaluate several criteria before making a recommendation. Below is the information they typically review prior to beginning a restoration project.

Condition, Condition, Condition

Every roof type—Metal, TPO, PVC, EPDM, Smooth BUR/Modified, Granulated Modified, Concrete and SPUF—has condition-related variables that must be evaluated to ensure it is a suitable candidate for a coating system. One of the first determinations is whether the roof is structurally sound.

For metal roofs, this includes checking for excessive rust perforation or pinholes. Contractors also assess whether moisture is present in the insulation, which could require partial or full tear-off. The condition of seams, curbs, and penetrations is reviewed, along with any existing coatings and their compatibility with the proposed system. For a free evaluation and estimate from an Inland-approved contractor, request a quote today.

Age And Appearance Of Your Roof

The overall age of your roof is another important consideration. Evaluating how the roof has aged over time helps determine whether restoration is the right solution. Environmental conditions such as wind, hail, and severe weather can accelerate deterioration and may require restoration sooner than expected.

Inland offers a proven line of products designed to address these challenges and restore roof performance. In addition to improving durability and resistance to extreme temperatures, restoration can dramatically enhance the roof’s appearance. Choosing a different coating color allows you to improve aesthetics while maintaining the same capital investment. Select Inland products are available in a wide range of colors.

Climate & Your Roof

Climate plays a significant role in roof aging. Geographic location can expose roofs to extreme heat, cold, salty coastal air, or heavy rainfall. Most roofing systems also experience daily temperature fluctuations that cause expansion and contraction throughout the year.

Roof coating systems must be strong and flexible enough to perform under these conditions. Inland products are recommended for application in temperatures between 40 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit (4.4 to 43.3 degrees Celsius). With proper application and curing, Inland RC-2000 and RC-2250 provide over 500% elongation and tensile strength of at least 1,500 psi. These properties help prevent tearing, leaks, and unnecessary service callbacks.

The Benefits of Restoring Your Roof

Restoring your commercial roof improves appearance while potentially adding decades to its service life. Restoration can eliminate leaks and protect the roof from continued weathering and deterioration. It is significantly more cost-effective than full roof replacement and far less disruptive, reducing potential downtime during installation.

Finish coats such as RC-2000 Rubber Roof Coating in white also offer high solar reflectance, helping cool the roof, reduce energy costs, and create a more comfortable interior environment.

Commercial Roof Maintenance and Inspections

Annual roof inspections help prevent minor issues from turning into premature roof failures. Timely repairs can significantly extend roof life and reduce long-term costs. Inland-approved contractors can help establish a proactive maintenance schedule.

Founded in 1978, Inland is a leading manufacturer of liquid applied coatings and mastics. Our products are designed for restoration, repair, and full restoration projects on Metal, TPO, PVC, EPDM, Smooth BUR/Modified, Granulated Modified, Concrete and SPUF roofs. For more information on commercial roof restoration, contact us today.