Aluminum roof coatings are used on certain compatible asphalt-based roofs. They are not a universal finish for every roof called rubber, and a silver surface does not prove the underlying roof is watertight.

What to check first

  • Identify whether the roof is modified bitumen, EPDM, or another material.
  • Read the coating manufacturer's approved substrates.
  • Repair leaks and remove loose material before considering a protective finish.

Treat silver coating as a protective finish

  1. Verify the approved substrate

    Read the coating instructions for the exact roof material. Do not assume an aluminum coating belongs on EPDM or on an unknown previous coating.

  2. Repair first

    A finish does not repair loose seams, failed flashing, wet insulation, or damaged decking. Complete a suitable leak repair and follow its cure and overcoating requirements.

  3. Prepare for adhesion

    Remove loose or failing material as directed and use a clean, dry surface. With Turbo Poly Seal, follow Bergstrom’s current protective-finish guidance rather than assuming every silver coating is suitable.

Watch the field examples

These archive demonstrations show individual projects. Use the current guidance above and Bergstrom’s published instructions if an older video shows a different product or method. Torch work shown in installation videos is professional work.

Watch Silver Roof Coating: Check the Membrane Before You Apply It · example 1Opens on YouTube ↗Watch Silver Roof Coating: Check the Membrane Before You Apply It · example 2Opens on YouTube ↗

From the project archive

Silver Paint or Aluminum asphalt paint is a coating tat is applied over rubber roofs to protect against ultraviolet rays
Historical project photo · Flat Roof Doctor
Gravel or stone was used in the early days to protect a roof from ultraviolet
Historical project photo · Flat Roof Doctor
Partially coated asphalt roof - They did not do it to protect the roof but rather to seal against a leak
Historical project photo · Flat Roof Doctor

Product reference: Bergstrom Industries’ published knowledge catalog. Follow the latest product label and safety information. Historical project examples are educational and are not a specification for every roof.