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Coating guide

Recoat or Replace Your Flat Roof?

Most foam roofs that look rough from the ground only need a recoat. Here's how to tell when they need more.

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  • Written for Albuquerque roofs
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Old flat roof with gray coating cracked into plates and worn through to tan foam around a vent pipe, Albuquerque rooftops and Sandias beyond
Coating worn through to the foam.

Three paths

OptionWhen it fitsRough cost per sq ft
RecoatFoam is firm and dry; coating wornabout $2–$4
Re-foam and coatFoam eroded or ponding everywhere, but roof is dryabout $5–$9
Tear off and replaceWet insulation or decking, too many layersmore, depending on system

The deciding question: is it dry?

A roof can look terrible on top and be perfectly sound underneath. Or look decent and be soaked inside. Moisture decides everything: dry roofs can be recoated or covered with new foam; wet roofs need the wet material removed first.

Large adobe-style home with a white coated flat roof, stepped parapets and a chimney, rugged mountains beyond
A recoated roof on a foothills home.

Signs a recoat will do

  • Coating is gray, cracked or thin
  • Foam shows in some spots but feels firm
  • Few or no leaks

Signs you need more

  • Foam is dark, powdery and eroded across most of the roof
  • Soft, spongy areas
  • Ponding everywhere after storms
  • Repeated leaks in different places
  • Multiple old roofs stacked underneath

Cost over time

Recoating on schedule is the cheapest way to own a foam roof. Skipping recoats until the foam fails roughly doubles the next bill. If you're planning to stay, recoat on time.

See also: spray foam roofing · coating costs

Call (505) 886-8732 for an honest recommendation.

Common questions

Can new foam go over old foam?

Yes, if the old foam is dry and sound after prep.

Do you do membrane roofs like TPO?

We focus on coatings and foam, and will tell you if a membrane roof is a better fit for your home.

Keep reading

Ready for a fresh coat?

Free estimates across Albuquerque, Rio Rancho and Corrales.

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