Protecting buildings from water maintains sound infrastructure and prevents hazardous conditions for occupants. Effective roof waterproofing safeguards interiors in wet climates like Florida with heavy annual rainfall. Water penetrating barriers impact structural integrity and can cause mold risks. Let’s find the top waterproof roofing solutions to navigate the Florida Rain.
What is Roof Waterproofing?
Roof waterproofing refers to specialized coatings, membranes, and treatments applied to roof surfaces, seams, and edges that seal out liquid water and moisture. Watertight roofing prevents building components like insulation, wires, and load-bearing walls from becoming compromised by moisture damage.
Proper water barriers also help maintain energy efficiency by blocking air leaks. Given Florida’s wet climate, roofing requires consistent inspection and maintenance to confirm waterproofing remains intact over decades.
Roof waterproofing prevents water from seeping through the roof and into the building. It preserves the building’s structural integrity and protects its interior from water-related issues. Regular inspection and maintenance of the waterproofing system increase its effectiveness over time.
Common Waterproofing Methods in Florida
Many waterproofing methods are available to protect your property in Florida. They are great for the hot and humid weather that is common here. We have listed the most common ones here.
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) Membranes
The bitumen-based roofing method involves multiple layers of roofing fabric soaked in hot asphalt, installed overlapping with sealed seams to create a waterproof barrier. This method is known as built-up roofing (BUR). It is an economical and durable method and is a proven choice for low-slope commercial buildings and flatter home roof sections.
With quality installation and maintenance, BUR systems remain watertight for over 30 years. You can also choose reinforced bitumen membranes (RBM) that utilize membrane layers bonded with hot bitumen. Combined with a polyester carrier, it creates a waterproof material applied above insulation on warm, flat roofs or directly onto the structural deck on cold roofs.
There are many ways to attach the roof membrane to the roof. They can be attached by rolling over hot bitumen or melting it using a gas torch. There are some self-adhesive options as well.
Single-Ply Rubber Membranes
Seamless sheets of flexible synthetic rubber made from TPO or PVC provide excellent waterproofing for various roof designs. They are easy to repair if damaged and suitable for large commercial buildings and residential homes. The single-ply membrane is perfect for waterproofing roofs with gentle slopes. The flexible membrane sheets can cover the entire roof surface for robust waterproofing.
These membranes use adhesion, fastening, and ballasting methods for installation. Polyurethane adhesives help secure the membrane and insulation layers to the roof. You can also use plastic screws to attach the membrane directly to the roof deck or add a gravel top layer to protect the membrane from UV rays while weighing it down.
This waterproofing method delivers durable, long-lasting protection for both commercial and residential flat roofs. Their seamless coverage, repairability, and multiple attachment methods suit structures with gentle slopes and a large surface area.
Liquid Sealant Coatings
Acrylic, polyurethane, or rubberized asphalt sealants can waterproof aged roofs or fill cracks and pores. These thick, dense coatings prevent moisture entry once fully cured. Some flexible formulas can stretch and contract alongside roof materials to make them resistant to cracking. Liquid coatings provide an option to seal and waterproof all roof types but work exceptionally well for flat or low-slope roofs.
Fiberglass liquid, liquid fleece membrane, and grass-reinforced plastics(GRP) are popular liquid sealant waterproofing solutions. Fiberglass liquid combines solvent-free epoxy resins with fiberglass mat reinforcement for seamless waterproof protection. Liquid fleece membrane uses a polyester fleece layer coated with an acrylic base. Glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) is a highly durable epoxy resin reinforced with glass fibers. They provide excellent leak protection.
Liquid-applied sealants and coatings provide lasting waterproofing for aged or damaged roofs by filling cracks and gaps. With proper installation and care, these cost-effective liquid solutions reliably protect roofs for 20-40 years.
Waterproofing Solutions According to the Roof Type
Waterproofing solutions differ according to the type of roof on your property. You should carefully select the solution according to your roof type for optimal results.
Shingle Roofs
The best method to waterproof shingle roofs is by applying a liquid sealant coating. It is suitable for both new roof installations as well as existing roofs in need of waterproofing. For new shingle roof installations, apply the liquid coating as the final step to provide complete coverage.
Before applying sealant on existing roofs, clear the roof of any debris, dirt buildup, moss, or plant matte. It gives you maximum adhesion and protection. Applying a quality liquid sealant is an effective way to waterproof and extend the life of shingle roofs.
Tile and Clay Roofs
Acrylic sealants are an optimal way to waterproof the exposed areas of tile or clay roofs to prevent moisture infiltration into a home. Apply liquid acrylic sealants on vulnerable areas like joints between roof tiles that may allow water seepage.
The liquid evenly coats surface cracks and crevices, providing durable water resistance once cured. They are flexible enough to expand and contract according to the temperature, which helps prevent cracks.
Metal Roofs
Traditional liquid coatings do not adhere to metal roofs. The best way to protect metal roofs is by using coatings formulated explicitly for them. You can opt for a standing seam metal panel system to divert rainfall from the roof.
Concrete Roofs
Concrete roofs are the easiest to waterproof. You can use liquid or membrane coatings for a durable and waterproof roof. Choose a method according to the condition of the roof and your needs.
Things to Remember While Designing Waterproof Roofs
Here are some things to remember for a durable, long-lasting, waterproof roof protecting your investment.
Adequate Slope and Drainage
It allows rainwater to run off without flat areas or depressions where moisture accumulates. Standards for minimum slope vary based on the type of waterproofing system used. The related drainage provisions like roof drains, scuppers, and downspouts help quickly redirect rainwater runoff away from the roof structure to avoid pooling and damaging the waterproofing.
Careful slope analysis and drainage planning based on the roofing system help prevent leaks, damage, and costly repairs over the lifetime of the building. Appropriate slope and drainage combine to make the roof more durable and sustainable.
Flashing and Overflow Provisions
Proper flashing is critical for waterproofing roof penetrations, transitions, and connections. It creates a watertight seal, preventing moisture entry while allowing expansion and contraction of materials. Galvanized steel or aluminum are the most common materials for flashing constructions as they resist corrosion. They also maintain their long-term elasticity and weather resistance through temperature fluctuations, UV exposure, and other environmental factors.
Proper flashing and overflow provisions are essential during major storms or heavy rainfall when the main drain reaches capacity. This protective system prevents overflow accumulation and extensive pooling that could enter your structure. Thoughtful flashing design and regular inspection and maintenance divert water safely down and away from a structure for longevity.
In Florida’s rainy climate, durable roof waterproofing is crucial to avoid moisture-related damage. Select a solution according to your roof type, design, and budget to protect your property and family. This small step can save you expensive repairs and hassle down the road.
If you are looking for a reliable contractor to provide waterproofing solutions for your roof in Florida, call us at (833) 467-7635 or message us. Our customer service team will provide a solution tailored to your needs. We are available 24/7 for any roofing needs.