What are the Best Sealants for Roof Leaks

Roof replacements are expensive and not always necessary when there is damage to a roof. Many times in Central Texas, you can effectively repair and prolong the life of your roof by sealing small and isolated leaks. 

There are numerous products on the market, and the right roof sealant for your situation will depend on the size of the damage, the type of roofing materials you have, your comfort level with application, and other factors. 

Common Types of Roof Sealants

In general, there are five main types of roof sealants – acrylic, polyurethane, silicone, rubber, and sealant tape. Here in Texas, sealants that can withstand intense sun and heat are a necessity. This includes most types of sealants except for polyurethane-based products. Polyurethane is highly effective when it comes to moisture but is less so against the sun.

Here are some pros and cons of the other types of roof sealant:

• Acrylic roof sealants deflect UV rays but aren’t as effective against standing water. This can be a problem for flat roofs.
• Silicone sealants are highly resilient against UV and moisture but also more expensive than other sealant options. 
• Liquid rubber sealants and sealant tapes are useful for smaller cracks and leaks but not intended for repairing large sections of a roof. 

Regardless of the type you use, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s directions, which may require you to apply multiple coats. Properly using the product is important to ensuring the sealant’s longevity and, of course, that your roof stays protected. 

Which Roof Sealant Should You Buy

If you have questions about which roof sealant to buy for your specific situation, you can always contact us at Storm Guard of SW Austin. At your hardware store, you’ll find the following (and more!) roof sealant products, all of which can be effective at sealing roof leaks. 

Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant 

A popular product because it works well for many different roof situations. It creates a protective membrane coating on metal, shingle or rubber roofs and is UV resistant. It is water based and can be applied with a brush, roller or sprayer.

Gorilla Waterproof Patch & Seal Tape 

As a sealant tape, it works well for patching vulnerable seams or leaks. It comes in a few different colors so you can match it to your roof. 

Flex Seal Spray Rubber Sealant Coating 

This is a liquid rubber that comes in a spray can, which makes application fast and easy for novices. Its smaller size means it is not intended for larger leaks.

If you have a roof leak, it will only help, not hurt to attempt a repair. We recommend trying any of the above roof sealants to reduce the damage and prolong the life of your roof. 

As always, take caution when attempting to seal a roof leak on your own and don’t hesitate to call in a professional team of experts even for what may seem like a small leak. Here at Storm Guard of SW Austin – we are always here to help.

If you have any questions or concerns about your roof, get in touch today.