Acrylic roof coating is a water-based, reflective coating applied to protect and extend the life of various roofing types. It forms a flexible layer that resists UV rays and weathering, helping to seal minor cracks and gaps. However, over time, the fasteners—nails or screws—that hold the roofing membrane or underlayment in place may begin to back out or loosen. This can happen due to roof movement caused by temperature changes, wind, or the natural settling of the building. When fasteners back out, they reduce the roof’s ability to hold tightly, which can create gaps where water might penetrate. Early signs include visible fastener heads that appear raised or loose, or even small leaks during heavy rain. A simple DIY check involves carefully inspecting the roof from the ground with binoculars or safely walking on the roof to look for uneven or loose fasteners. Make sure to do this only if you feel comfortable and have the proper safety gear. Look for any areas where the coating seems bubbled or cracked around the fasteners.
If you notice fastener back-out or suspect it, it’s wise to call a professional roofer, especially because improperly addressing fastener issues can risk further damage or void your roof’s warranty. A roofing contractor can tighten or replace backing plates and fasteners and reapply the acrylic coating as needed to restore watertight protection. When discussing with your roofer, ask specifically: “What type of fasteners do you recommend for my roofing system, and how will you ensure they won’t back out again?” and “Will the repair maintain my existing coating’s warranty or will it require a full recoating?” Ensuring these questions are answered helps avoid future roofing problems and keeps your acrylic coating performing as intended.