The process of liquid roofing provides a cost-effective method of making a new or existing roof waterproof. It can deliver up to 25 years performance depending on the coating system employed. It is estimated that liquid roofing is 70% less expensive than overall roof replacement in refurbishment situations.
Liquid roofing can be undertaken with high performance materials – many of the products used in the liquid roofing process have been independently tested and their performance verified. In the United Kingdom, the leading testing and approvals house is the British Board of Agreement (BBA).
Unlike the installation process of felt, asphalt membranes, liquid roofing does not involve hot works. Hot works on roofs is an extremely high-risk process that poses a significant fire risk to contractors as well as the building and its occupants. The coating material used in the liquid roofing process is applied cold, thus negating any fire risk.
When applied, liquid roofing systems encapsulate the surface they are applied to, preserving whatever is underneath and protecting it from weathering. This is especially desirable when dealing with asbestos roofs, as attempted removal of asbestos roofing can damage it, releasing material that can trigger asbestosis. Using a liquid coating system instead seals the asbestos, therefore making disturbance of the material more difficult.