Applicator Training

American Rootile Coatings (ARC) provides a full day training program to certify roofers as applicators of ARC products. The program includes hands on activities and a detailed instruction guide. A brief summary is provided below. The application process was developed to restore and refinish old concrete rooftile, clay tile and fiber cement tile. After successful completion a certificate is provided. In addition, ARC offers refresher programs to promote the use of best refinish practices, to introduce new materials, methods and equipment and to share experiences. The refinishing process consists of the following five steps:

The first step is for the homeowner and roof restoration specialist to evaluate the condition of the roof and to agree to specific remedies to fix fundamental problems, such as leaks or broken tiles. Then the roofing specialist must prepare the house for powerwashing by protecting adjacent surfaces from runoff, staining or overspray. Polyfilm, masking tape, cardboard and gutter-guards maybe required in protecting adjacent areas.

The second step is two powerwashing cycles at 4000 PSI with a biocide treatment in between. This is done to remove dirt, algae, efflorescence, corrupted slurry coat and other surface contaminants. After the first powerwashing, the rooftile is treated with bleach in those areas affected by mold, algae, lichen, moss, and other plant life. After allowing the bleach and sunlight to kill-off microbes, a second powerwashing is completed to remove any remaining contamination including residual bleach.

The third step is to apply two coats of penetrating binder. The penetrating binder strengthens the upper surface of the tile and allow good adhesion of the subsequent color coats. The first application, at 0.2 gallon per square, is usually absorbed quickly and should be allowed to dry at least an hour before applying the second coat at 0.13 gallon per square. These two coats are best allowed to dry overnight before application of the color coat. This polymer binder prevents subsequent coatings from peeling, blistering or removal by scuffing.

The fourth step is application of a 100% pure acrylic color coat that contains a biocide to prevent unsightly organic growth. The color coat is applied in two coats to insure uniform color appearance and uniform film build. The first coat is best applied at 0.3 gallon per square and the second coat is best applied at 0.2 gallon per square. With sixteen colors available there is likely one that suits a homeowner's taste. The application of two or more colors can be done to achieve a 'flashed' or multi-colored blend appearance. Special order colors and custom colors can be matched with a minimum order.

The fifth and final step is the application of a single clear gloss topcoat. The topcoat is a hard 100% acrylic polymer coating, including a biocide to control unsightly organic growth, that increases the life of the finish nearly twofold and it gives a uniform gloss to the entire roof surface. A low sheen clear topcoat can be used which gives a softer lower gloss appearance. In either case the topcoat is applied at 0.25-0.33 gallon per square in one pass.

Required Equipment

• Power Washer (4-5,000 psi, 5-10 gpm)
• Paint Mixer for 5 or 25 gallon bucket
• Airless Sprayer (1+ gpm) w/4 foot wand & nozzles
• Bleach Applicator
• Waders (Waist High)
• Goggles
• Mask