Fluid-applied is the fastest growing segment in the commercial roofing industry. With these systems becoming increasingly popular because of their seamlessness, minimal disruption, cost effectiveness, and environmental impact. But when failures occur, the results can be costly and damaging to the reputation of everyone involved in the project.

So, why do fluid-applied roofing systems fail? And what can ensure they don’t?

Our team at White Hat Industrial has been dedicated to fluid-applied since Day 1, and we’ve seen a lot throughout our time in the industry. Here’s five common reasons for fluid-applied failure.

Failure to Address and Identify Existing Conditions

Addressing and identifying existing conditions is critical for not only determining whether a roof is a candidate for fluid-applied, but also for ensuring any areas of concern are taken care of prior to installation. For example, existing conditions may be isolated areas of saturation or areas in need of minor structural repairs. If a roofing contractor fails to address and identify these existing conditions, a fluid-applied system will be at higher risk of failure.

Incorrect Product Selection

Not all fluid-applied systems work the same and most have their own unique properties, which is why the product selection process is so important. Choosing the wrong system is one of the main reasons behind incorrect product selection. Specifically, when factors like geographic climates, surface slopes, and existing substrates aren’t taken into consideration.

A trusted partner who is highly skilled in fluid-applied roofing systems will have the knowledge needed to ensure only the right and best products are selected.

Improper Substrate Preparation

Improper substrate preparation may be one of the main reasons why fluid-applied roofing systems fail and don’t perform well. Without clean, dry, and stable surfaces, these solutions cannot properly bond to the surface. For example, residual moisture, dirt, and loose debris can create issues like blistering, poor adhesion, or delamination.

But when working with an expert, improper substrate preparation shouldn’t be a risk. Instead, there should be extensive substrate evaluations including moisture scans and adhesion testing to ensure every layer is optimized for success.

Poor Application and Installation

Like any roofing system, fluid-applied solutions require attention to detail and precision during the installation process. Specifically regarding things like mil thickness, reinforcement, flashing, and proper layering. And when contractors cut corners during the application process, the integrity of a fluid-applied system becomes instantly compromised.

Lack of Quality Control and Coordination 

With any large-scale project, quality control and coordination are essential for successful outcomes. This is why it can often be beneficial to work with an expert who does fluid-applied 100% of the time versus someone who provides these solutions in addition to their core offering. Someone who does this all the time is more likely to have more proprietary processes when it comes to quality control and proper installation.

Communication, planning, and coordination of the project are also key to the success of fluid-applied systems. Specifically, when varying weather conditions or geographic locations are present. For example, this could be rain or more related to physical aspects like a building being in a high-traffic area. Still, clear communication is key to ensure positive project outcomes.

How Experts Make the Difference

When you partner with a team who understands the nuances of fluid-applied systems, only installs fluid-applied solutions, and has been doing this for customers nationwide, everything changes.

Here’s how working with White Hat Industrial results in high-performing fluid-applied roofing systems:

• Expertise. Fluid-applied roofing systems have been our core focus since Day 1, and because of this we are the Spec in our industry.
• Communication. At every project touchpoint, our team communicates clearly and concisely to ensure all parties involved have the information they need to feel confident.
• Proprietary Processes. With every fluid-applied system we install, we use our proprietary assessment, preparation, application, and post-testing processes to ensure success.
• Reliability & Predictability. We’ve been able to deliver high-performing fluid-applied roofing systems nationwide and are known as a reliable partner even after customer projects are complete.

Fluid-applied systems offer incredible value when done right, and doing it right requires experience, technical knowledge, and a relentless commitment to performance. So, choose fluid-applied with an expert who doesn’t install failing systems. Work with the expert who does this 100% of the time, and you won’t have to worry about failure.

Want to work with a contractor who installs high-performing fluid-applied roofing systems?

Our team of fluid-applied specialists works with customers nationwide to provide high-performing roofing solutions.

Simply call us at 937.909.9030 or contact us via email. You can also follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook to learn more about us and our work.