San Diego Apartment Complex

Liquid Applied Roof Coating

San Diego Apartment Complex

The roof of a multi-unit apartment complex was in need of restoration.

Location

San Diego, CA

Summary

Restoration of an aging modified bitumen roof of a multi-unit apartment complex using a reinforced acrylic coating system, providing a 20-year warranty on both labor and materials.

Challenge

The roof at this San Diego apartment complex was reaching the end of its lifespan. An assessment by the DCPS team determined that the roof would only qualify for a fluid-applied solution for another 1-2 years. Without timely action, the property would face the financial and operational burden of a full roof replacement.

Solution

The DCPS team installed a reinforced acrylic roof coating system as a cost-effective alternative to total roof replacement. This solution extended the life of the existing roof without the need for demolition, allowing residents to go about their daily lives without any disruptions—including noise or interruptions to air conditioning—that typically come with a full reroof. The completed project delivered a durable roof and a 20-year warranty on materials and labor.

The project began with a thorough roof assessment, which confirmed that while the existing structure showed signs of deterioration, it had not progressed beyond the point of repair. This made it an acceptable candidate for the reinforced acrylic coating system covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.

Following the client’s approval, the DCPS team prepared the roof by thoroughly cleaning the surface to remove dirt, loose granules, and other debris that could interfere with adhesion. Any roof imperfections noted during the cleaning process were addressed prior to applying the coating to ensure smooth application.

Next, the base coat was applied in two layers, with a full layer of polyester fabric embedded between them for enhanced reinforcement. All roof details, including pipe boots and flashings, were sealed by hand using a three-layer method with coating mastic and reinforcement fabric. Once the base coat cured, two finish coats were applied uniformly across the roof, creating a seamless and durable membrane.

To ensure the highest standards were achieved, the DCPS team conducted ongoing site inspections during the installation process. Additional mid-point and final inspections verified that the roofing system complied with all warranty standards.