Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA)

The Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA) is a trade association in the United States representing manufacturers of roof coatings and their suppliers, with contractor members as well. It lists an address in Ontario, New York, and its website is roofcoatings.org.

What roof coatings are

Roof coatings are liquid-applied materials that form a protective layer on an existing or new roof. Main types include:

• acrylic coatings, water-based and often white for reflectivity;
• silicone coatings, which resist ponding water and weathering;
• polyurethane and polyurea coatings;
• asphalt and bitumen-based coatings, including aluminium-pigmented products;
• SEBS and other rubber-based products.

Coatings are used to restore and extend the life of low-slope roofs such as metal, modified bitumen, built-up and single-ply roofs, and to create reflective "cool roof" surfaces.

Activities

• Technical affairs. RCMA committees work on technical issues such as test methods, product standards and application guidance.
• Government affairs. The association tracks regulations affecting coatings, especially limits on volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which vary by state and air district. It publishes VOC maps for its members and the public.
• Education. It runs a virtual training program on roof coatings.
• Events and awards. RCMA holds a spring meeting, promotes an International Roof Coatings Day and presents a Project of the Year award.
• Communications through news and technical resources.

Context

Reflective coatings are often listed with the Cool Roof Rating Council, which measures solar reflectance and thermal emittance. Building energy codes in hot climates may require reflective roof surfaces, which has increased the use of coatings. Coatings are not suitable for every roof: wet insulation, failed seams or severe deterioration usually need repair or replacement before coating. Outside North America, liquid-applied roofing is represented by groups such as the UK's Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing Association.