Thank you for filling this out. We will call you back ASAP.
Acrylic Elastomeric Or Rubberized Roof?
Tucson roof coating contractors are continually asked whether acrylic elastomeric or rubberized roof coatings are the same. In fact, they are asked if cool coating is the same as rubberized coating or if rubberized coating is the same as cool coating. The point is that many homeowners are not sure what type of materials go on their roof. Hopefully if you are asking whether you have acrylic elastomeric or rubberized roof coating, this article can help.
Acrylic Coatings Are Called Rubberized Coatings
The typical white roof coating found on desert homes in southwest Arizona around the Tucson and Phoenix area are typically made of acrylic resins and are usually water based. These types of coatings are actually categorized as paints. They are thick paints with elastomers that allow them to remain with a rubbery feeling. This is why they are called “rubberized coatings.” Again, they are not made of rubber but they do have some characteristics of rubber when they dry.
Acrylic Coatings Can Be Called Cool Coatings
Another term for acrylic elastomeric coatings is “cool coating.” This term refers to the cooling properties of the roof coating. To be considered a cool coating the coating must have a solar reflective index (SRI) value of over 65. This means that 65% of the solar energy is properly reflected. Tucson Rubberized 7000 coating has a 75 SRI and is one of the best “cool coatings” on the market. Again, to be a cool coating the coating must have a 65 SRI or higher so not all acrylic coatings can be called cool coatings due to lower SRI’s.
Coated Roofs Are Considered Built-Up Roofs
Most of the roofing world thinks of built-up roofs as those that are put down with hot-tar and modified bitumen rolled roofing (big 40″ rolled out roofing shingles that are torched down). The southwest desert has a unique type of built-up roofing that uses elastomeric acrylic or rubberized coatings rolled or sprayed down on top of a proper roofing underlayment. These white coatings keep the roof cool and protected. So yes, coated roofs are considered built-up roofs which many refer to as cool coated roofs.
Different Names But The Same Meaning
In summary, as one can see there are numerous names for the same meaning. To help homeowners understand, here are some common names and definitions usually applied to the typical southwest Santa Fe style “flat roof” coating. All these name usually apply to the same product used by most Tucson roof companies near you.
- Acrylic coating: Same as acrylic elastomeric coating.
- Acrylic elastomeric coating: Same as acrylic coating.
- Cool coating: White or tan elastomeric coating that has an SRI of 65 or higher.
- Rubberized coating: White or tan coating that feels rubbery when dried.
- White roof coating: The generic term for the water-based white acrylic coating.
- White built-up coating: Built-up is the technical term for the type of roof, white refers to acrylic coatings.
- Elastek coatings: Elastek was once the best coating in Tucson. Tucson Rubberized has become most roofers favorite.
- Elastic coatings: This is a play on the company Elastek and the rubberized nature of white acrylic coatings.
- Flat roof coating: Low-slope roofs are often called flat roofs and are often coated with white acrylic coatings.
- Apoc coatings: Another company that sells elastomeric roof coatings.
Call Desert Sky Roofing To Apply Roof Coatings in Tucson
Desert Sky Roofing specializes in applying the roof coatings usually found on Tucson roofs. As Tucson’s best roof coating contractor we will inspect your roof for free and provide a free estimate which will show the approximate roof coating coverage square footage and how many buckets we will apply according to the rubberized coating’s manufacturer. We will provide before and after photos so that you know that you are getting what you pay for. Give us a call today to set up your free roof inspection in Tucson, Green Valley, Vail, Oro Valley, Marana, Casas Adobe, Catalina Foothills, South Tucson, Sahuarita, Picture Rocks and anywhere in the greater Tucson area. Call us: 520-444-5218.
If you’re a Tucson homeowner in need of shingle roof replacement, getting a detailed and honest estimate is a crucial first step. Not all roofing contractors are the same — and not all roofs are, either. The Arizona heat, monsoon winds, and sun exposure make it essential to choose a roofing company that understands local conditions and uses the right materials. Asking the right questions helps you feel confident in your roofing contractor and ensures your roof repairs or full replacement will be done correctly.
Below are seven smart questions you should ask your estimator or Tucson roofing company before hiring a roofing company in Tucson:
Is the company licensed, bonded, and insured?
This should be the first question you ask any roofing contractor. Arizona law requires roofing companies to be licensed, bonded, and insured. A licensed contractor has met state requirements and carries the appropriate insurance in case something goes wrong. If your estimator or roofing company can’t provide their ROC number and proof of insurance, that’s a red flag. Hiring a properly licensed roofing company protects you from liability and ensures the job is done to professional standards.
What warranties do they offer on materials and labor?
Warranties are a key part of any roofing job. You’ll want to know how long the shingles are warrantied by the manufacturer and whether the roofing company backs up their own workmanship. For example, laminated (architectural) shingles — which are now the standard since three-tab shingles are no longer available in Arizona — often come with extended warranties and superior wind resistance. Be sure to get all warranties in writing, and ask your roofer estimator to walk you through what’s covered.
What type of underlayment do they use?
The underlayment is a critical component that sits beneath your shingles and adds an extra layer of protection against leaks. In Arizona’s intense climate, a high-quality synthetic underlayment is best. It resists heat, doesn’t absorb moisture like felt paper, and holds up better over time. A reliable roofing company will always include synthetic underlayment in their shingle replacement process. If your estimator doesn’t mention it — ask.
How long does the shingle replacement process take?
Time matters, especially if you’re trying to schedule around monsoon season or HOA approvals. Ask how long the shingle roof replacement will take from start to finish, including tear-off, installation, and cleanup. Most shingle roof replacements can be completed in one to three days depending on the size of the home, weather conditions, and any needed wood repairs. A professional roofing contractor should provide a clear timeline in your estimate.
Will they inspect and replace damaged wood decking if necessary?
Removing old shingles often reveals damage underneath. It’s important that your roofing contractor inspects the wood decking and replaces any rotted or warped sections. A proper estimate should outline that any necessary decking repairs will be included, and the estimator should explain how those costs will be handled if they arise. Skipping this step can compromise the entire roofing system.
Would ridge vents be a good option for your roof?
In Tucson, keeping your attic cool reduces heat transfer into your home and helps your roof last longer. Ask your estimator about installing ridge vents or upgrading any existing attic ventilation. Proper ventilation helps reduce moisture and heat buildup, improves energy efficiency, and is often overlooked by less experienced roofers. A well ventilated roof will last you longer.
What brand of shingles does the roofing company recommend?
While most roofing contractors, including Desert Sky Roofing, can install all major shingle brands, the estimator should be able to recommend a brand or line that performs best in Southern Arizona’s climate. Laminated shingles with a high wind rating are ideal for Tucson homes due to their durability and impact resistance. Your estimator should explain the differences clearly and offer a color and style selection that matches your home.
At Desert Sky Roofing, we use only laminated architectural shingles, high-quality synthetic underlayment, and we take the time to do the job right — no shortcuts. If you’re considering a shingle replacement in Tucson, give us a call for a free inspection.
✅ We’re offering $300 off all full roof replacement jobs.
Let us show you why we’re one of Tucson’s highest-rated roofing companies for roof repairs and replacements. You ask the smart questions — we’ll provide the honest answers.