The climate in Scotland can be very tough, especially on roof tops, with heavy rainfall, high winds and constant exposure to the other elements taking their toll. Moss can build up, tiles can discolour and leaks and fissures can occur – amongst other issues – which is why tile coatings can be particularly useful.
In this roof coating guide, we aim to help Scottish homeowners understand exactly what a roof tile coating is, how it works, when it is suitable for use and what other benefits it brings.
What Is Roof Coating?
A roof coating is a protective layer that is applied to the surface of your roof, usually in the form of a liquid application which dries into a waterproof and weather resistant film. When applied correctly, the roof coating can prevent water ingress and reduce the need for maintenance. Unlike a roof replacement, a roof coating is not necessarily very expensive and can be a very cost-effective way of refreshing and protecting existing roof materials.
What Materials Are Used?
Several main types of coating materials are available, each with distinct advantages and limitations. When it comes to tile roof protection, understanding these differences helps homeowners make informed decisions based on their specific needs, budget, and local conditions.
Acrylic Coatings
Pros:
- Waterproof yet breathable, allowing trapped moisture to evaporate
- Excellent UV resistance to prevent tile discolouration
- Cost-effective option for most residential applications
- Easy to apply and maintain
- Environmentally friendly with low VOC content
Cons:
- Less durable in extreme weather conditions
- May require more frequent reapplication (every 8-12 years)
- Can be prone to chalking over time
- Not ideal for areas with severe temperature fluctuations
Best suited for: Standard pitched roof tiles in moderate climates with regular maintenance schedules.
Elastomeric Coatings
Pros:
- Superior flexibility allows expansion and contraction with temperature changes
- Excellent performance in Scotland's variable weather conditions
- Outstanding waterproofing capabilities
- Longer lifespan (typically 12-20 years)
- Excellent adhesion to various roof materials
- Superior resistance to cracking and peeling
Cons:
- Higher initial cost compared to acrylic options
- Requires professional application for optimal results
- Longer curing time, weather dependent
- Can trap moisture if not properly applied
Best suited for: Scottish homes exposed to extreme weather, temperature fluctuations, and properties requiring long-term protection with minimal maintenance.
Silicone Coatings
Pros:
- Exceptional durability and weather resistance
- Outstanding performance on flat or low-slope roofs
- Excellent UV stability
- Superior resistance to ponding water
- Low maintenance requirements
Cons:
- Significantly higher cost
- Primarily designed for commercial or flat roof applications
- Limited aesthetic options
- Requires specialised application techniques
- Not typically necessary for standard residential tile roofs
Best suited for: Flat roofs, commercial buildings, and properties with specific waterproofing challenges.
Additional Considerations
Most quality roof coatings also contain fungicidal agents which help prevent moss, lichen, and algae growth - particularly important in Scotland's damp climate. When selecting a coating type, consider your roof's age, condition, local weather patterns, and long-term maintenance preferences.
For Scottish homeowners, elastomeric coatings often provide the best balance of performance and longevity, particularly given our challenging weather conditions and the potential for significant temperature variations.
How Are Treatments Applied?
The multi-step process usually follows the workflow below:
- Inspection (with broken or missing tiles replaced)
- Cleaning
- Primer (optional)
- Coating application
How Long Do Coatings Last And When Are They Appropriate?
The lifespan of a roof coating may vary but if correctly applied it will last somewhere between 10 and 15 years. However, this does depend on the quality of coating material , the condition of the roof prior to application and the environmental factors such as the wind and rain.
Coatings are best applied to roofs that are aged but still in sound structural condition. Moss prone roof surfaces are also particularly appropriate as coatings help to resist biological growth. Homeowners that are looking for preventative care for their rooftops may also benefit from roof coatings, especially in the wetter areas of Scotland.
Roof coatings are a great way of adding protection and an aesthetic boost to your property, without the expense and upheaval of a full roof replacement. If your roof top needs some much needed TLC or you want to expand the lifespan of your current roof by 10 years or more, then a roof treatment UK expert from our team here at Lti Transformations could be just what you are looking for.
