UV Exposure
Protective Coating Layer Shields Foam Roofing from UV Rays
Rigid polyurethane foam is an expanded plastic. Under a microscope, polyurethane foam's closed cell structure becomes apparent. Microscopic thin walled cells stack tightly on top of one anther in such a way that water cannot travel between the cells. Polyurethane foam's closed cell structure allows Foam Roofing to insulate and waterproof at the same time.
Foam Roofing Degrades With Prolonged UV Exposure
If exposed to UV rays, the cells of a Foam Roofing System will gradually degrade layer by layer. For this reason, the Dura-Foam roofs include two layers of specialized acrylic based coating to protect the polyurethane foam roofing system from UV exposure. This coating is engineered to endure heavy foot traffic as well as exposure to dirt, wind rain, and UV.
Acrylic coating is applied to protect the underlying polyurethane foam from otherwise degrading ultraviolet rays.
What Happens When Foam Roofing Is Neglected
When a foam roof is neglected and the protective coating layer is allowed to wear out, UV rays will begin to degrade the underlying polyurethane foam. When exposed to direct sunlight, foam typically degrades at a rate of about 3/32" per year. This type of damage usually results in pitting; small pits in the foam start to form in spots where the coating has completely worn out. It would take many years of neglect and exposure for the foam to wear away enough cells for the roof to leak because the foam is a minimum of 1" thick.
How to Make Foam Roofing Last Over 40 Years
Can a Dura-Foam roof be protected from UV rays and last for more than 40 years? Yes! Please continue to find out how foam roofing durability is increased.
