Roofing shingles are designed to withstand extreme weather – and they do so impressively. The average shingle roofing easily lasts more than ten years, even with poor maintenance.
Unfortunately, daily exposure to rain, sunshine, hail and snow can take a toll on even the toughest shingle roofing. When this happens, you may notice small leaks that result in water dripping inside the house. Over time, these leaks can develop into large holes, often causing extensive damage.
One of the ways to prevent roof leaks while extending the life of your shingle roofing is to seal any gaps with roof sealant. Depending on the damage and your preferences, you have to seal only the affected area or apply sealant throughout the roof to create an impenetrable barrier against water and UV light.
Read on to find out some of the best roof sealants, as well as learn a few tips on how to pick the proper sealant. We even provide a few roof sealing tips.
Best Roof Sealant for Shingles Reviews
The market is awash with roof sealants, all marketed as the best around. Don’t be fooled. Some of those sealants can’t even withstand rain. They wash off at first sight of water. Others also peel within weeks, leaving your roof more exposed than ever.
If you’re looking for a proven roof sealant that can stand the test of time, we’d advise that you choose from the following seven options;
1. Geocel 22300 Clear Gallon Pro
Pros
- Extremely flexible and elastic
- Lever-lock on container allows easy storage
- Adheres well even on oily, wet surfaces
- Applicable on various types of surfaces
Cons
- Difficult to apply on tricky surfaces
The Geocel 22300 Clear Gallon Pro stands out as one of the best all-round asphalt roof sealants for 2021. “All-round” means it can also be used on other areas of the home, including the windows, chimney, skylight, vent, and gutters. You can even use it on the sidings and inside the house.
As the name suggests, the sealant is a clear gel. It doesn’t shine like other sealants. Instead, it becomes invisible once applied. You must look closely to determine whether it was applied in the first place. It’s rust-free, though. It prevents the oxidation process. Of course, it’s also water-resistant and can withstand extreme cold and heat.
What makes the Geocel 22300 clear gallon pro sealant genuinely unique, though, is that it doesn’t need a great deal of roof cleaning before application. Most sealants require perfect roof conditions before application. The roof surface must be clean, dry, and crystal clear. Geocel 22300 works even on damp, oily, and dirty surfaces.
2. Flex Seal Spray Rubber Sealant Coating
Pros
- Paintable to different colors
- Extremely durable sealant
- Easy application with a spray
- Usable for multiple applications
Cons
- It is highly flammable
- Contains harmful vapors
Another excellent sealant for asphalt shingles is the sea spray from Flex. This is a liquid rubber sealant that’s both durable and flexible. It’s also solvent-free, meaning you don’t have to worry about strong odors during application.
As a liquid rubber sealant, it applies with ease. All you need is the right spraying equipment, and you’re ready to go. When you spray it onto asphalt shingles, the liquid seeps into holes on the surface, sealing them tightly. The liquid nature also allows the sealant to enter every crack on the surface. Once it dries, it forms a waterproof, airtight coating.
The thick rubber sealant works for nearly all surfaces. Besides asphalt, you can also use it for wood, concrete, and metal surfaces. It’s even applicable for fabric, porcelain, cement, and drywall. It protects the roof against mildew and UV and doesn’t sag or drip in the summer.
3. LOCTITE PL S30 Black Roof Sealant
Pros
- Highly heat and cold proof
- Extremely flexible sealant
- No premier required before applying
- Paintable
Cons
- Performs poorly underwater
LOCTITE is a commercial-grade sealant that forms a permanent seal on the exterior gaps and makes them water-tight and weather-resistant. This makes it the best sealant to cover nails on asphalt shingles. It requires no prior prepping with premier, which means you can get down to work right away.
As the name suggests, it comes in a dark black color, making it best suited for black roofs. However, you don’t have to worry even if your roof isn’t black. Why? Because the sealant is paintable! Yes, while most sealants aren’t paintable because paint can compromise weather resistance, LOCTITE PL S30 can be painted with no adverse effects.
You’ll also love that it’s a highly flexible sealant. It can withstand +/-35% movement of expansion or contraction without any trouble. So, you don’t have to worry even when temperatures drop significantly. Its UV and ozone-resistance qualities allow it to remain in place even longer.
4. Henry HE208042 GAL Roof Cement Sealant
Pros
- Excellent performance in and underwater
- Meets many industry standards
- Perfect, clear, and smooth finish
- Economical
Cons
- Requires thorough prepping
If your main concern is a small leak on the roof, Henry’s HE208042 GAL roof cement is one of the best sealants for roof leaks. It’s primarily designed for wet patches and performs exceptionally well underwater. It remains in place even in standing water. The best part is that it doesn’t show any signs of sagging, slipping, and blistering in damp conditions.
The sealant’s excellent adhesion in water also means you don’t have to wait for perfect weather to apply it. You can apply it even in the thick of winter or the middle of the rainy season. It’s also highly versatile. Besides shingles, you can use them on concrete, metal, and other asphalt surfaces. Ensure the surface is spotlessly clean before initiating application.
You’ll also love that the sealant gives a crisp, clean finish. It’s also elegant and clear. There’s no sagging or dripping. And, if you’re wondering how long it lasts, the manufacturer gives a clue with their 7-year limited warranty. The application rate is 12 square feet/pail.
5. DAP 18816 Polyurethane Construction Sealant
Pros
- Extremely flexible
- Impressively durable
- It’s paintable
- Economical
Cons
- It takes a long time to cure
The black moisture-cure polyurethane sealant from DAP is a class apart when talking about heavy-duty sealants. It withstands temperatures from -40°F to 170°F and is extremely strong and durable. You’ll actually be surprised that it has a 50-year limited manufacturer warranty. That’s more than many roofs can last.
Another key advantage of the black moisture-cure sealant is that one coat is all it takes. While other popular roof sealants require at least two coats, this one only needs one to get the job done. It can be used on a wide range of materials, from concrete to fiberglass and wood to aluminum. It’s also common in masonry and carpentry.
It is extremely flexible and remains unaffected by environmental factors. Also, it’s one of the few cut-resistant sealants. Cut-resistant sealants aren’t affected by sharp objects. They also endure foot track very well. Above all, the black moisture-cure polyurethane sealant from DAP meets multiple Federal standards, including Grade NS and Class 25.
6. SASCO Gallon Clear Roof Sealant
Pros
- Applies even on wet surfaces
- It lasts 20 years more than asphalt
- It’s elastic and flexible
- Seals invisibly
Cons
- It leaves an unappealing shine when applied
SASCO gallon clear is one of the most popular sealants in the roofing industry. It’s also used as a coating on flat roofs. The sealant is made from a unique formula consisting of polymer and rubber that make a permanent seal. The adhesion is so strong even the strongest snowfalls don’t affect the seal. It’s also highly weatherproof, staying intact even in temperatures below zero or above 120°F.
Part of the reason for the extreme weather-resistant is its high level of flexibility. The material contracts and expands with changing temperatures, allowing it to keep its state (no cracks or chipping) even in extreme weather. It also doesn’t yellow when exposed to sunlight.
What we like most about the SASHCO clear sealant, though, is that it dries right away. You don’t have to watch over it for hours as it dries. Once it dries, the seal lasts at least 20 years. This makes it an excellent choice when shopping for a sealant to extend the lifespan of your roof.
7. Liquid rubber waterproof sealant
Pros
- Multipurpose application
- Highly flexible
- Very durable
- Easy (DIY) application
Cons
- A primer is a must
If you’re looking for a great asphalt shingles sealant but are also concerned about prices, the liquid rubber waterproof sealant is functional and affordable. It’s also straightforward to apply. This makes it one of the better choices for DIY applications. All you need is a roller or piston paint sprayer. Some people even apply it with a brush. However, you need two or three coats to achieve the desired thickness.
The sealant also stores excellently. Unlike other options that react with chemicals within a few days to form a hard solid, liquid rubber waterproof sealant is chemical resistant. The chemical resistance also makes it applicable in many areas, including roofs, planter boxes, ponds, sheds, gutters, basements, and even foundations.
It contains no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), harmful chemicals, or solvents, thus is environmentally friendly. It also lacks the powerful odors characteristic of roof sealants. These qualities and the fact it’s both UV and water-resistant make it one of the best sealants today.
8. ETERNABOND RSW-4-50 Roof Seal Sealant Tape
Pros
- Long-lasting (up to 16 years)
- Impressive elongation (up to 700%)
- UV and weather-resistant
- It gives a smooth final appearance
Cons
- It takes a long time to stick properly
Finally, although jell sealants are the most common, you may also opt for sealant tape, especially for small, DIY projects. If you do, consider the ETERNABOND RSW-4-50 roof sealant. It’s an extremely versatile sealant tape that works on a wide range of surfaces, including PVC, gypsum boards, galvanized steel, TPO, concrete, rubber, and aluminum, to name just a few. It can be used to seal roof tears, seams, flash links, and copings, among others.
The best part is that you only need one seal. Just make sure the surface is well-prepped. It shouldn’t have any dirt or oil traces. After sticking the tape, apply pressure to make it permanent. The best part is that it comes with an elongated primer which allows it to adhere to the roof surface without bulging.
It’s about 35ml thick, thus provides a highly resistant seal once dried. We also love that it’s very flexible, capable of stretching 700% without losing its shape. That’s better than anything you can find on the market. It’s also UV and weather-resistant. Any leftover product can last an impressive five years without going bad. Meanwhile, the applied seal can last up to 16 years.
What is Roof Sealant?
Roof sealants, also known as sealers, are jellylike materials applied to the roof to protect the roofing material from extreme weather. The jelly turns solid a few moments after application, creating a weatherproof layer that can extend the roof’s life by many years.
Sealants can be applied only to the damaged area of the roof, such as portions with leaks, or to the entire roof.
Types of Roof Sealants
There are several ways to categorize roof sealants. Some people even categorize them by colors. However, we prefer to categorize sealants by the base material and the primary ingredient.
Solvent-based vs. Water-based sealants
Roof sealants can be solvent-based or water-based. Solvent-based are more popular among roofers and architects because they last longer. However, they are more expensive than their water-based counterparts. Solvent-based sealants also require greater care during application.
It’s also worth noting that you need a respirator to apply solvent-based roof sealant to avoid inhaling the fumes. Disposal is another challenge if you choose to use solvent-based sealant as these materials are considered Household Hazardous Waste (HHW). HHWs must be disposed of at an appropriate facility.
Meanwhile, water-based sealants produce fewer odors and cost less. However, they tend to wear off faster. Although a water-based roof seal may still last several years, solvent-based sealants often last up to twice as long. Remember that faster wear means you may need to replace the seal more frequently, leading to increased costs.
Categorization by Primary Material
Solvent-based and water-based roof sealants can also be further categorized as acrylic, polyether, silicone, rubber, or sealant tape.
Acrylic sealant
Acrylic is the most common roof sealant. It’s typically water-based and typically found in the western and southeastern states where sun damage is the primary concern. The material is excellent at reflecting sun rays, with some acrylic sealants reflecting up to 90% of UV rays. Another critical benefit of acrylic is cost. It’s arguably the most affordable roof sealant. Acrylic sealants typically come in a white shade.
Unfortunately, acrylic sealants don’t hold up to moisture so well. Therefore, they aren’t a good solution for flat roofs with pooling water. The coats may also run off if it rains immediately after application.
Polyether sealants
Polyether (or polyurethane) sealants are also very popular among homeowners and property managers. The material isn’t as UV-resistant as acrylic. However, it’s one of the most water-resistant sealants. They form a waterproof adhesive bond that completely seals leaks, thus extending the life of the roof. This makes them a favorite in areas with more rainfall or roofs with ponding issues.
Polyurethane sealants are environment friendly and naturally OSHA complaint. They can extend the lifespan of the roof by up to 30 years.
Silicon sealants
Silicon isn’t as good against UV rays as acrylic or water as polyurethane. However, it’s the sealant that balances both qualities the best. It offers excellent UV protection and is also impressively water-resistant. As such, it’s applicable in any weather condition, whether it’s a primarily sunny region or a rainy state.
The only downside of silicon roof sealants is cost. Silicone sealants are the most expensive in the industry. Oxime-cure silicon sealants are considered some of the best for balanced weather regions and some of the most expensive around.
Rubber sealants
Rubber isn’t as common as the first three sealants. However, certain people swear by it. The main reason is that liquid rubber is the only sealant that allows you to apply just a single coat. Other sealants usually require two or three coats for the best results. A single coat means you save on both material and labor.
Rubber roof sealants are available in thin, water-based formulations that are easy to apply. They are 100% waterproof if appropriately applied and allowed to dry completely.
Sealant tape
If you don’t have time to apply liquid sealant, an excellent option is sealant tape. Sealant tape is made of thin strips of moisture-resistant material and is used to repair minor leaks. They can also help in sealing vulnerable seal seams. The tape has an adhesive backing that directly attaches to the roofing surface.
Sealant tapes primarily stand out for their low cost. They are also easier to apply than liquid sealants. These two qualities make them an excellent choice for small sealing projects.
Benefits of Roof Sealing
Roof sealants have been around for decades. Many homeowners and commercial property managers love them for the following reasons;
Extend the life of the roof
The main benefit of elastomeric roof sealings is that they extend the lifespan of the roof. The average commercial roof lasts about 20 years – which isn’t too bad. However, a single elastomeric sealing can add another 10-20 years to the lifespan.
In older roofs, elastomeric roof sealings provide a protective, waterproof barrier that immediately stops leaks while improving performance. It also significantly reduces the need for repair and maintenance.
Reduced energy costs
The home loses a lot of heat through the roof. Studies show that 30-35% of heat is lost through the roof in an insulated timber-framed house. This is a lot more than windows (21-31%) and walls (18-25%). The roof also brings in lots of heat during the summer. In both cases, the HVAC system has to work extra hard to keep the indoors comfortable.
Sealing your roof with an elastomer significantly reduces heat loss through the roof. For instance, white sealings reflect up to 90% of the sun’s harsh rays, effectively reducing the need for cooling. Some studies show that a single elastomeric sealing can reduce cooling costs by up to 20%.
Cost benefits
As we’ve seen, the alternative to elastomeric sealing is to replace your roof every 20 years, on average. This can be very expensive. Depending on the type of roof, you’re likely to pay $15 to $18 per square foot. And that’s before you include labor charges.
Restoration provides all the benefits of a new roof at a fraction of the cost. Moreover, since sealings are applied over an existing surface, labor charges are typically lower than outright roof replacements. In many cases, you’ll pay around 50% less to restore through sealing.
Environmental benefits
Finally, sealing also makes a lot of sense if you’re an environmental champion. The world is experiencing devastating effects of climate change as a result of unchecked environmental degradation over the past years. The tons of old roofs that head to landfills each year are partly to blame for this problem.
Roof restoration through elastomeric sealing offers a way to reuse existing roofing materials with minimal impact on the environment. Remember that elastomeric roof sealings are developed with little to no volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This makes them very safe for the environment.
Considerations When Selecting a Roof Sealant
Selecting roof sealants isn’t just about picking the first sealant you come across. Specifically, you must pick the proper sealant for the application for shingles, which often means considering a wide range of factors. We’d advise that you prioritize the following;
- It must be waterproof
Even if you’re not primarily concerned with leaks, it’s still imperative that you find a waterproof roof sealant. The main reason is that sealants are exposed to water for the better part of the year.
First off, moisture is an issue throughout the year. Moisture may get trapped below the sealant even during sunny weather. Furthermore, every region has a rainy season during which the roof is exposed to a large volume of water throughout the day. Finally, pooling is also common in shingle roofing. Therefore, you can see how the waterproof qualities of the sealant would be important.
- Weather resistance
The best shingle roofing sealants are also resistant to extreme weather. Weather resistance includes the ability to withstand freezing seasons, boiling summers, intense downpours, snowing, and even strong winds.
However, most people usually focus on extreme temperatures. The best sealants can withstand temperatures down to -70°F and up to 240°F. Fortunately, you can now find sealants that stay in place even in temperatures up to 400°F. This can be especially useful when sealing the roof directly above the fireplace.
- Elasticity and flexibility
You want an extremely elastic and flexible sealant. The main reason is that more elastic and flexible sealants can take greater temperature variations. Remember that temperatures in some regions can dip below zero during the winter season and rise over 100°F in the summer. That’s before mentioning the effects of heating and cooling inside the house, which can push or lower roofing shingle temperature several degrees. Extreme heating and cooling can cause extreme contraction and expansion of the shingles.
A highly elastic and flexible sealant can withstand such expansion and contraction without causing tears within the roof.
- Durability
No one wants to seal the roof every year. Even five years is too short considering the costs and planning associated with roof sealing. Ideally, you may want to only seal the roof perhaps once or twice in your lifetime.
That’s where durability matters. Whereas some sealants can last a few decades, others are only good for three to five years. They get washed away by water draining down the roof and lose their flexibility within months. Some also lose their reflective qualities in no time, necessitating fresh sealing.
- Cost
Finally, always purchase and apply sealant within your budget. There are many reasons why we must mention the need to prioritize proper budgeting. However, the most important one is that you’re likely to make avoidable mistakes if you start without a sufficient budget.
For example, you may purchase low-quality sealants because you don’t have enough money. It’s good to save, but even more important to do the job right. A low budget may also force you to DIY even when you’ve never dealt with sealants before. This, too, can result in poor results. So, know how much you need and wait until you have enough money.
Summary
Roof sealants are a beneficial roof coating that adds durability and weather resistance to roofing shingles. They also make the home more livable by reflecting excess heat during the summer and keeping the heat inside in winter.
However, it’s crucial to choose the proper sealant. Whereas the best roof sealants can last a lifetime, low-quality options only last a few months. You want to use the best possible sealant that’s durable, weather-resistant, and highly flexible. Also, consider professional sealant application.