What Is The Best Waterproof Roof Paint

With so many options available, this isn't an easy question to answer! Any consumer searching for good value, high-quality roof paints is spoilt for choice these days, and it can be an overwhelming task.

The team behind Pentura Paints has dedicated almost 25 years to developing and perfecting paints, as well as selecting the very best brands for our customers. We aim to make choosing paint a pleasure rather than a chore, providing an excellent range of products to excite and enthuse.

That's why we decided to dedicate an entire blog to the subject of waterproof roof coating options. We understand that our customers have different needs and requirements and that selecting a suitable paint for a specific situation can be confusing and frustrating.

So, without further delay, let's jump right in to find the best waterproof coating for your roof!

What Makes A Good Paint?

First, we need to ask ourselves what features we need to look out for when buying waterproof paint. This helps us to screen out any that don't come up to scratch, making the choice easier.

With this in mind, here are the essential features that our waterproof roof coating must offer:

Waterproofing Performance

The primary function of roof paint is to create a watertight barrier. Look for products that provide superior waterproofing capabilities, even in prolonged exposure to heavy rain. Check for certifications or standards that validate the paint’s waterproof performance.

Durability And Longevity

A good-quality roof paint should withstand the test of time and resist cracking, peeling, or fading due to weather exposure. Opt for paints with a proven lifespan, typically mentioned on the product label, and those designed to endure the UK's fluctuating climate.

UV Resistance

UV rays can degrade roofing materials and cause paint to fade or weaken. Choose a product with excellent UV protection to maintain its integrity and colour, particularly if your roof is in direct sunlight for most of the day.

Flexibility And Crack Resistance

Roof surfaces can expand and contract with temperature changes. Paint that is flexible and crack-resistant will adapt to these shifts without compromising the waterproof barrier.

Coverage And Thickness

Ensure the paint provides adequate coverage per litre. Some waterproof roof paints are designed to be applied in a single thick coat, while others may require multiple layers. A thicker film is generally better for waterproofing but might take longer to dry.

Adhesion To Various Materials

Roofs can be made of materials such as concrete, metal, asphalt, or tiles. Check the paint’s compatibility with your roof type to ensure proper adhesion and performance.

Breathability

While waterproofing is crucial, breathable paint allows moisture trapped inside the roof to escape, preventing dampness and mould from developing. Look for products specifically designed with this feature.

Anti-Mould And Algae Resistance

Roof surfaces are often susceptible to moss, mould, and algae growth, especially in damp climates. A high-quality roof paint should have anti-fungal or anti-algae properties to keep the colours clean, fresh and bright.

Easy Application

Choose a product that suits your preferred application method—brush, roller, or spray. Some paints are formulated for quicker application and shorter drying times, which can be useful for large surfaces.

Colour Options

Roof paints are available in various colours, allowing you to match your roof to your home’s exterior. Consider a product with colour retention properties to keep your roof looking fresh over time.

Eco-Friendliness

Environmentally friendly roof paints have low VOC (volatile organic compound) levels and are safer for the environment and your health. Look for eco-certified products if sustainability is a priority. Alternatively, select a water-based paint rather than a solvent-based one if there are no obvious indications that it is a 'green' choice.

Warranty And Guarantees

Reputable manufacturers often provide warranties for their roof paints, which can give you peace of mind about the product’s quality and performance. Always check for warranty terms before purchasing.

What Type Of Roof Do You Have?

Do you have a pitched or flat roof? This could be important as some paints are designed specifically to suit one or the other.

Here's a mini guide to highlight the main points:

Flat Roofs

Flat roof surfaces expand and contract with the temperature, so they require a protective roof coating that's flexible enough to cope with this without cracking.

UV-resistant paints are better for flat surfaces, as this helps to increase the lifespan of the material.

A flat roof is prone to water pooling, so you'll need a fully waterproof roof coating.

Pitched Roofs

While waterproof paint is fine for pitched roofs, it doesn't necessarily have to be so. A weather-resistant coating will suffice.

What's more important is that it has excellent adhesion, as the sloped surface - whether tiles, slate or shingles - needs to be able to hold fast to the material without slipping.

Finally, it's essential for paints on a pitched roof to be breathable, allowing moisture to evaporate. This helps avoid nasty issues with damp and mould in the loft space.

Contenders For 'Best Waterproof Roof Coating'

Armed with the above information, it's now time to highlight a few possibilities in our search for the best waterproof paint.

Now, there are many other examples out there that could qualify, but we've picked a few that have caught our attention over the years as specialists in the premium paint and protective roof coating business.

So, in no particular order, here are nine of our favourites along with a brief description of their main features:

Rust-Oleum Mathys Dacfill

This water-based elastomeric paint offers excellent waterproofing for flat or slightly sloped roofs. It is highly durable, UV-resistant, and remains flexible even in extreme weather conditions.

Isoflex Liquid Rubber

A premium choice for creating a watertight seal on flat roofs, balconies, and gutters. It offers long-lasting protection, can be applied directly to many surfaces, and is ideal for instant repairs and complete waterproofing

Cromapol Acrylic Roof Coating

Known for its versatility, Cromapol is a single-coat, fibre-reinforced paint that works well even on damp surfaces. It’s ideal for emergency flat roof repair and small-scale projects.

Flag Roofix 20/10

This paint is designed for instant waterproofing and can be applied in wet conditions, making it perfect for unpredictable weather. It is highly recommended for flat roofs and emergency leak fixes. Also, this is a great choice for green roofs (those supporting vegetation).

Blackfriar Professional Solar Reflective Paint

In addition to being one of the best waterproofing solutions, this paint provides UV protection and reduces heat absorption, making it an excellent choice for warmer climates. It’s ideal for use on metal and felt roofs.

Everbuild Evercryl One Coat

A cost-effective option that provides immediate waterproofing with just one coat. It adheres to a wide range of roof materials and is particularly effective for instant roof repair.

Wethertex CP80

This superb silicone-based paint offers up to 12 years of protection against water and rust. Consumers love this option as it dries quickly and doesn’t require a primer. It is also ideal for various materials like galvanized steel, Plastisol, and more.

Durashield Roof Paint

This rubber-based coating is completely waterproof immediately after application and only requires one coat. It is particularly good for smaller roofs like garages and has a life expectancy of up to 10 years. This option is great for fixing rubber roofs that have seen better days.

GacoPro Roof Coating

A silicone-based product offering long-lasting waterproofing, this UV-resistant paint can be easily applied to a wide range of roofs. It takes just two coats to provide a long-term solution for your roof waterproofing needs.

Pentura Roof Paint

We've left the best - in our humble opinion - until last, and you'll see why we feel this way when you learn more about this option...

While the others on the list are excellent choices, some are more suitable for a flat roof or specific types of material other than roof tiles. As the majority of roofs in the UK are pitched or sloped and covered with tiles, shingles or slate, they need a high-quality roof coating that can stand the test of time.

And we are confident that Pentura's roof paint is the very best option.

Here's what makes our paint so good...

• Super-hydrophobic - The unique nanotechnology formula creates a surface that actively repels rainwater. This makes it self-cleaning in the sense that rainwater flows freely from the roof, taking dirt with it! There's less need for cleaning and maintenance, so you save money, time and effort.
• Suitable for several types of material - Our paint can be applied to all kinds of roofing material including concrete, clay and fibre-cement tiles to protect them from the elements and keep them looking smart for longer.
• Forms a firm bond - The paint bonds itself chemically to the tile surface, forming an incredibly firm attachment. This makes it perfect for sloped roofs and ensures that it protects the surface for a long time.
• UV-resistant - This paint provides protection from harsh sunlight that would otherwise threaten to break down the surface of the tile. Without UV protection, tiles eventually crumble and cracks will appear, allowing moisture into the matrix that will freeze during winter. Sunlight also causes paint to fade, but our formula ensures that colours stay bright and vibrant for many years!
• Anti-Mould/Moss/Algae - Organic growth is inhibited by the special formula, keeping the roof space free from annoying and unsightly moss and other unwanted visitors. This saves you money and increases the lifespan of your roof.
• Highly breathable - Trapped moisture leads to several serious problems and will shorten the lifespan of your roof tiles. This amazing paint allows the tiles to breathe, so any moisture will evaporate naturally.
• Ten-year guarantee - We offer a manufacturer's guarantee of 10 years, but we are confident that this superb paint will last for around twenty-five years (with the right care and maintenance).
• Excellent coverage - A little bit of this paint goes a long way, so you can be sure that the 20-litre container offers fantastic value for money.
• Water-based formula - Our water-based paint uses high-grade acrylic resins, making it a better choice for the environment.
• Heavy-duty formula - Years of experience and knowledge have been poured into the crafting of this superior paint, making it highly durable with an easy-clean satin finish.
• Great colour options - Our colour choices include green, rustic red, terracotta, black and anthracite grey, meaning that you can pick one that suits your vision for your property.
• Improved energy efficiency - Premium roof paints like this one can help to improve insulation, resulting in better energy performance. This saves you money on energy bills in the long run.

Now you can see why we are so proud of our roof paint!

But - as they say - don't just take our word for it, try it out and see the results for yourself.

And if you're not certain whether it's the right choice for your roof type, get in touch and we'll be happy to advise you.

Is It Worth Painting Your Roof?

Painting your existing roof is a cost-effective way of refreshing the outside of your property. The other alternative is to replace your roof, which can be very expensive!

With so many excellent options available, not to mention the amazing benefits on offer, there's really no excuse for delaying this common-sense step any longer.

Finally, let's end with some roof painting tips:

• Be safe at all times! Use a harness, secure your ladder (if using), and don't overreach.
• Sweep away loose debris and clean the roof before you start. Remove dirt and grease using a soft brush and industrial degreaser.
• Watch the weather. Ideally, paint in dry conditions (never in strong winds).
• Test a small patch in an inconspicuous area first.
• Use a paint sprayer for the best results (Pentura paint is ideal for this).
• If you don't think you can manage this job, hire a professional painter!