Roofing cement is one of the few essentials that are very necessary for repairing a roof. Without them, you can not proceed to any kind of roofing-related work. It is also applied in waterproofing.
Waterproofing a roof properly is one of the prerequisites for a good home. Hence, Is roofing cement waterproof is a common question among beginners. This article will briefly discuss it.
Many homeowners use roofing cement to protect their roofs from leaking, rusting spots, repairing loose shingles, or helping to attach shingles, etc.
Let’s skim through the article and learn a bit more about roofing cement.
Is Roofing Cement Water Proof?
Roofing cement is considered to be waterproof. The majority of components that composed roofing cement are mineral particles, lubricants, additives, and predominantly asphalt.
The structures comprise a binding that can seal a crack and prevent moisture from entering the surface of your roof. So, these substances are meant to keep the area underneath it dehydrated and avoid any leakage.
But, it can be said that adverse climate change can cause roofing cement to dry out, break, crack or split. In such cases, as time goes by, it lacks the sealing properties.
What is roofing cement?
Roofing cement is a concoction of asphalt, bitumen, strengthening strands, and thermoplastics, and many other components.
Applying roofing cement directly to roofs can help the reconstruction and improvement of the poor condition of the roofs. It can also save money and energy for the homeowners.
Types of roofing cement
There are a lot of varieties available in roofing cements. It always depends on the weather condition, the rate of rain or snow, your roof condition, cracking size, roof color and many other things.
Some roofing cement provide strong coverage and are used mainly for their good adhesion properties. Again, some provide average coverage only for emergency or temporary solutions for roofing crack or leakage. There is another variety that depends on whether the surface is either dry or wet.
Henry HE208030 Roof Cement, Classic Assorted, Henry CO TV205696 Premie 11 oz Roof Cement are some of the most popular roofing cement used by the roofers.
Waterproofing handling using roofing cement
The outermost roof coating should be breathable which means it should be designed in such a way that it will help to evaporate the humidity trapped in the insulation, covering , attic etc. Thus , moisture will not settle down in your roofing layers causing growth of moulds, fungus, or damaging the ceiling.
Roofing cement plays an outstanding role in this situation as it helps to seal even a single leak or crackling, making your roof completely watertight.
One variety of roofing cement is elastic roofing cement. It has great adhesion quality that can cover up the joints between the roofing shingles as well as repair any crack or breakdown on the shingles.
Sometimes, water can leak through the roof by the holes that are created for putting screws on the roof. So, securing the screw penetrations using roofing cement can be very useful.
How to apply roofing cement
Applying roofing cement is not a very difficult task to do, it is quite simple. The steps are described below-
Step 1: Select the suitable type of roofing cement
Step 2: Make sure the area is tidy, dust and dirt free
Step 3: Carefully remove any other remains of any other materials present nearby the crack
Step 4: Now, apply the cement using a putty knife or towel. Always remember to apply a thin coating of roofing cement, as thick ones tends to tear up in pieces.
Step 5: While applying, make sure to carefully seal the crack
Step 6: Make sure to set and dry each of your roofing cement layers properly. It is recommended to set the roofing cement for at least 12 hours.
Step 7: If your roof has large holes or damages, you should try to seal it with other materials before applying roofing cement.
Step 8: Consult a professional before starting anything for yourself and have an overall idea about the process, the durability and the efficiency of it for you.
Final words
After reading this article, expectantly, is roofing cement waterproof or not is clear to you.
Although most of the roofing cement has water sealing properties, to utilize it properly, the cement should be applied very carefully and systematically. It will be highly appreciated to consult a professional before proceeding with any repair of a damaged roof.
Have a good day!
