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How Many Coats of Roof Coating Do I Need?
Southwest Arizona home owners who have rubberized coated roofs often ask, “How many coats of roof coating do they need?” The answer depends upon a few factors but 90% of the time, the answer will be TWO. Roof coating is not cheap. In fact, the best coatings can run over $100 per bucket, but investing in the correct amount of coating to protect your home is always the best choice. Here are some things to consider when asking how many coats of roof coating you need.
Why Apply Two Coats of Roof Coating?
Answering the “why” question always helps a home owner when considering a huge purchase like recoating their roof. When asking, “how many roof coating coats” knowing why two is better than one is always important. Two key factors help determine the why. First, roofs move through the process of expansion and contraction. This movement can cause corners or vents or scuppers or other penetrations to expand and contract and pull and rip the coating. If the coating is thicker it has less of a chance of splitting. The second key to answering why, is knowing that coatings oxidize. Roof coating contractors know roof coatings will oxidize and get thinner over time. This process causes the top microlayer to wash off, ultimately thinning the layer of roof coating. The thicker the coating the less chance of needing to recoat as often. One coat properly applied can last 2-4 years, where two coats of cool coating can last upwards of 5-7 years before needing to be recoated. (See this article for more on “how often should you coat your roof”.)
What Is the Condition of The Current Roof Coating?
If the roof in question hasn’t been coated in more than three years, there is a great possibility the roof will need two coats. Elastomeric coatings oxidize over time and become thinner and thinner in the Arizona sun. When this occurs the coating thins to the point where it starts to crack or show the roof paper through the coating. Sometimes the coating can be so thin that it starts to flake or peel on the top. If that happens, it is definitely time for two coats of premium acrylic coating. If the coating looks thin or you have these issues, its best to apply two coats. A good Tucson roof coating specialist will be able to help you determine the current condition of your roof.
How Much Movement In The House?
As mentioned above, houses expand and contract in the Arizona heat. This process stresses the roof coatings and can cause cracking. The thicker the roof coating the better chance that cracks will not occur. Of course, this doesn’t meant to pile on the coatings as thick as possible because the coatings themselves will crack if put on too thick. It does mean that two coats verses one is always better on house that have significant movement. You can determine the movement in the home by identifying the cracks on the roof. If there are numerous crack around scuppers, corners, penetrations, transitions, etc. That is a good indication one coat may not be sufficient.
What Type Of Coated Roof Do You Have?
The type of roof will help determine how many coats are necessary. A Santa Fe style home with walls that extend above the roof line (these walls are called parapets), doesn’t shed water as quick as a pitched ranch style home. Water causes breakdowns in the coatings if it is allowed to remain on the roof too long. So if you own a ranch style home, there is a greater chance that the coating will last longer and sometimes you can get away with applying just one coat of roof coating.
How Often Do You Want To Recoat Your Roof?
Based on what has already been written it is obvious to note that if a roof is coated with only one coat it will not last as long between recoats as one that was coated with two coats. So the question to ask is, “how often do you want to recoat your roof?” Of course the assumption is that the roof is recoated according to the manufacturer’s standards per coat and the coating itself is a good one. If a roof company doesn’t follow the standards whether it is one coat or two will not matter! Also, if cheaper materials are used, the chance of needing to recoat sooner is high! Homeowners should always get in writing the exact amount of roof coating that is to be applied and what type of coating.
An Honest Roofing Company Will Help You
There are many Tucson roofing contractors that are just out to take your money and run. That is unfortunate because these companies would get so much more business if they did things the right way. An honest roofing company will show photos of your roof and explain exactly why one coat or two coats would be the best option. Avoid roofing contractors that are pushy or who cannot give a clear explanation that makes proper sense on why one or two coats is best. If money is the issue, a good roofing company will work with you and try to come up with a good solution that keeps your home dry and protected.
Our motto at Desert Sky Roofing is “Roofing it right the first time!” We are not going to sell you something that you don’t need. If your roof can handle only one coat, we will recommend it! We approach every client as if they were part of our own family and we give them the same advice we would give our own mothers. If you give us a call and share your concerns we will listen and help you determine what is best for your roof and how best to achieve those results. Call us a 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.