What roof protection gives
An absorbing covering stays damp longer, grows moss and algae faster and copes worse with frost. A water repellent product makes the water run off the surface instead of soaking in. So the roof gets dirty more slowly, turns green less often and is easier to care for.
Protection is the natural complement to cleaning. First you remove the moss and deposits, then you limit the conditions under which they return.
On which roofs impregnation makes sense
Not every covering is protected the same way, and some have their own manufacturer guidelines. Absorbent, mineral coverings usually benefit most from hydrophobing. With metal tiles and shingles the key is whether the manufacturer and the given product provide for this use.
Tip
Before you decide, check the covering manufacturer guidance and the product description. They settle whether protection is suitable for your roof and which product to choose.
Safety when working on the roof
As with cleaning, the greatest risk is working at height, not the product itself. A sloped and all the more a wet surface can be very slippery.
Note
On a high or steep roof seriously consider leaving the work to a company with proper equipment and safety measures. Never work without fall protection, alone or in bad weather. The safety data sheet of the product and the rules for working at height take priority over any advice.
Preparing the covering
The product goes onto a clean and dry covering. Moss, deposits and loose dirt have to be removed first, as described in the guide on cleaning a roof. After cleaning the covering must dry thoroughly, and the weather should be dry and warm.
Protecting the roof step by step
- 1Arrange safety. Provide fall protection and safe access to the roof. Only then think about the work itself.
- 2Clean and dry the covering. Remove moss and deposits as described in the guide on cleaning a roof, then let the covering dry.
- 3Check the product is compatible with the covering. Make sure in the product description and with the roof manufacturer that the product is suitable for your covering.
- 4Apply the product evenly. Spread the product according to the instructions, without gaps and streaks, and work in a safe way.
- 5Wait before judging. Let the product bond with the covering. The time until it is ready and any second coat is set by the product data sheet.
The most common mistakes in roof protection
- Working at height without proper safety measures.
- Applying the product to a dirty or damp covering.
- Skipping the check whether the product is compatible with the given covering.
- Working in bad or changing weather.
- Ignoring the roof manufacturer guidance.
Frequently asked questions
Can every roof be impregnated?
No. It depends on the type of covering and whether its manufacturer and the given product provide for this use. Absorbent, mineral coverings usually benefit most, but always check the guidance.
Does roof impregnation stop moss growth?
It limits water absorption and slows the return of moss and algae, because it makes their access to moisture harder. It does not replace cleaning, which removes what has already grown.
Can I protect the roof myself?
On low, gentle slopes with proper safety measures it is possible. On high and steep roofs consider a contractor, mainly because of safety when working at height.
When should I protect the roof?
In dry, warm and rain free weather, after the covering has been cleaned and dried, following the range of conditions on the product data sheet.
