If you’re not 100% sure it’s bone dry, you’re just sealing in problems.
That hits the nail on the head. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen bubbling or peeling on a “freshly coated” roof just because someone rushed the prep. Folks see those slick ads and think a miracle coating will fix rot or leaks, but it’s really just putting a lid on top of whatever’s underneath—good or bad.
I do agree about breathable membranes being a smarter move, especially on older homes where moisture is already an issue. It’s tempting to go for the quick fix, but in my experience, those coatings can actually trap water and speed up wood rot or mold. One job I checked out last year, they’d coated over some damp decking and by spring, the whole thing was soft underfoot… ended up costing way more than if they’d just replaced the trouble spots first.
Not saying coatings are always bad—they have their place—but skipping steps or ignoring what’s under the surface is asking for trouble. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves you from bigger headaches down the line.
Not saying coatings are always bad—they have their place—but skipping steps or ignoring what’s under the surface is asking for trouble.
Couldn’t agree more. I’ve seen folks slap on a “miracle” coating thinking it’ll solve everything, but if there’s moisture hiding underneath, you’re just making a petri dish for rot. Had a neighbor who tried to save money by coating over some old cedar shakes—looked great for a few months, then the whole thing started sagging and stinking like wet mulch. Ended up ripping it all off and going with a green roof system instead.
Breathable membranes make a world of difference, especially in damp climates. They let moisture escape instead of trapping it, which is huge if you’re dealing with older wood or questionable decking. I get why people want quick fixes, but honestly, nothing beats taking the time to check what’s really going on under there. Sometimes you gotta bite the bullet and do some demo before you build back up. It’s not as flashy as a new coating, but in the long run, it’s way less hassle.
