Roof coatings work hard to add extra life to your roofing system. They help seal surfaces, reflect heat, and keep water out. But like anything else that’s exposed to the elements for years, things can start to go wrong. One problem you might notice is blistering. These bubbles or raised spots in the coating might seem small at first, but they can point to bigger trouble.
Blisters in your roof coating aren’t something to brush off. They don’t just pop up for no reason. If they’re not dealt with the right way, they can open up pathways for water, increase wear and tear, and eventually lead to more costly repairs. Let’s break down what these blisters are and how to spot the signs early.
What Are Blisters in Roof Coatings?
Blisters in roof coatings are raised bubbles that form under the surface of the coating material. They usually start small and may grow over time, especially on flat or low-slope roofs. These blisters often feel soft to the touch and can look like air has been trapped underneath.
Here’s what’s happening. A pocket of air or moisture gets stuck between the layers of the roofing system. As the heat builds up, that air or moisture expands and causes the coating to stretch and rise. In some cases, the pressure becomes so intense that the blister ruptures and exposes the roof surface below.
You might notice these blisters after long stretches of sunny weather, especially in late summer or early fall when the roof has already endured months of sun exposure. They can appear in isolated spots or across multiple areas of the roof. No matter how many you see, every blister is a weak link that shouldn’t be ignored.
Common Causes of Blistering Roof Coating
Blisters can form when something goes wrong either during the coating process or after it’s applied. Even one small misstep is enough to cause problems down the road.
Some of the most common reasons for blistering include:
– Trapped moisture: Whether it’s from humid air or wet materials during application, moisture can get sealed under the coating layer. When the roof heats up, that moisture expands and creates pressure.
– Poor surface preparation: If the roof isn’t cleaned thoroughly first, leftover dust, debris, or oils can keep the coating from bonding tightly. Gaps or weak spots allow air to build up underneath.
– Uneven application: If the coating is applied too thick, too thin, or inconsistently, it may dry unevenly and form bubbles where it isn’t sealed properly.
– Wrong weather for coating: Applying coating when it’s too hot, too cold, or in high humidity can impact how well it cures and sticks to the surface.
– Big temperature swings: Large shifts in temperature, like hot days followed by cool nights, can lead to repeated expansion and contraction. Over time, this movement helps push air pockets up into blisters.
Mansfield’s weather plays a big role here. Hot summers, sudden rainstorms, and cooler fall temperatures mean roofs in this area face a cycle of heating, soaking, and drying. If coatings aren’t applied during the right window—or if previous coatings were rushed or done poorly—blisters can show up sooner than expected.
The Impact of Blisters on Your Roof
Blisters might start small, but they don’t stay that way. If left untreated, they can grow larger or eventually break open, letting water seep into the roofing system. Once water gets beneath the coating, it spreads. It can soak into insulation, rust nails and fasteners, or even damage the roof deck below.
Blistered coating creates soft spots that don’t hold up in heavy weather. Mansfield storms can bring strong winds and soaking rain. Weak areas are often the first to fail in those conditions. Once the top layer breaks down, it leaves the rest of the roofing materials unprotected.
It’s not just about leaks or visible damage. Moisture that lingers under the surface can lead to a shortened roof life. A blistered area may not leak right away, but the stress, swelling, and loosening of layers can send visible damage creeping in over time. What might’ve been a small repair early on can turn into a far more expensive project later.
Repairing Blisters the Right Way
Blisters can’t just be sealed over with another layer of coating. That only hides the problem and often makes it worse. The right way to handle blister repair starts with a full inspection to assess the depth of the damage. Sometimes, what looks like one small spot is just a clue to a larger problem underneath.
A trained roofing professional knows how to spot the less obvious areas and fix each blister properly. This involves safely cutting open the area, checking all the layers beneath, and drying out any wet materials before adding anything new on top.
A typical blister repair includes:
– Finding and marking blistered areas
– Cutting open the damaged coating to release built-up air or moisture
– Removing soggy insulation or loose material under the coating
– Letting everything dry out fully
– Applying compatible materials to reseal and reinforce the area
– Adding a new top layer that matches the rest of the roof
Dealing with blisters early is the best way to avoid more damage. Repairs done right can help extend the life of the coating and reduce wear during seasonal changes. This is especially useful in places like Mansfield, where sunny days can switch quickly to cold fronts and steady rain.
Why Timely Action Matters
Waiting too long to fix blistered coatings can lead to more than just a few repair patches. Once water finds a path inside, it spreads quickly. By the time visible leaks or peeling show up, the damage may already be affecting more than just the top layer.
Some blisters go unnoticed unless you’re looking for them, especially from the ground. Regular inspections from a professional help catch these issues before they grow. Fall is a good time to check roofs, especially in Mansfield, where the switch to winter often brings freezing rain, snow, and ice. Repairs made now can help your roof hold strong through the coming cold.
A blister might seem small, but it’s a sign that something isn’t working right. Fixing it now helps stop worse trouble later on. It can also give you more peace of mind knowing your roof is ready to take on whatever weather comes next.
Let’s Take Blisters Off Your Roof’s To-Do List
Blisters in a roof coating are more than just a cosmetic issue. They’re a warning that the layers below need attention. Whether caused by moisture, poor prep, or rapid weather changes, these soft spots can break open and let bigger problems in.
Taking action early is the key. It reduces the risk of leaks, helps your roof system last longer, and saves money on bigger fixes down the line. Mansfield weather can be rough on a roof, but with the right repair approach, you don’t have to worry about what’s going on above your head.
If your roof coating is showing signs of blistering, don’t wait around to see what happens next. A quick professional check could be the difference between a small repair and a major headache.
Whether you’re dealing with a few small bubbles or a more widespread issue, addressing the root of roof coating blisters is key. Get your roof back in shape and prevent future problems by exploring how we handle roof coating in Mansfield. All American Roof Pros is ready to inspect, repair, and ensure your roof is protected for years to come.