Alligatoring

Alligatoring is the cracking of the surfacing bitumen on a bituminous roof or coating on a SPF roof, producing a pattern of cracks similar to an alligator’s hide. The cracks may not extend completely through the surfacing bitumen or coating.

Alligatoring is commonly found on smooth surface asphalt roofs. It is caused by the drying out of the exposed asphalt surfacing by the sun. When the defects are tiny, it’s referred to as checking.

When left unattended, cracks and splits eventually develops. Water will enter the roofing system and cause unseen damage in the roof system. As the surfacing layer fails, the fiberglass reinforcement underneath is exposed and becomes brittle. Membrane failure inevitably follows.

Smooth built up roofs should be inspected annually for damage. A roof coating may be applied to reflect harmful ultraviolet rays and reduce thermal cycling.

On single ply roofs, the tiny cracks all over the membrane is referred to as crazing.

BUILT UP ROOF RESTORATION

EnergyGuard® Butyl Elastomeric Roof Coating from Lexis may be used on smooth asphalt built up roofs in serviceable condition. Our butyl coating has improved ponding water resistance and helps reduce asphalt degradation caused by exposure to UV rays.