Spray foam roofing isn't new technology, but it doesn't get as much attention as other forms, so many homeowners don't know about it. This type of roofing, in which a polyurethane coating is sprayed on the surface of the roof and the coating expands and hardens, is tough and can withstand a lot. It can last a very long time if taken care of properly. However, there are a few things that can damage this type of roof. If you know about these and can keep your eye on them, you can easily prevent the roof from failing.
Hail and Branch Impacts
As with most roof material, spray foam roofing can be chipped and dented by large hail and impacts from heavy items like tree branches. You should have the roof inspected after a hailstorm or after a storm in which branches fell on the roof. While you should do this no matter what roofing material you have, spray foam roofing is kind of special in that, if there is damage, the fix is easy. All the roofing company has to do is remove the damaged area (basically digging out the damage) and then respraying. Unless your entire roof is damaged after a storm, you won't have to have the whole thing replaced. Spotty damage just needs spot repairs.
Age and Time
Spray foam isn't immune to the ravages of time, but it certainly can hold them off for a while; with good care, a spray foam roof is estimated to for many years. The gradual fading and wearing of the roof over time won't be much of a concern for you now, but you can get started with taking good care of the roof by having it regularly inspected.
Poor Installation or Defective Materials
It is possible for the roof to be made with defective materials. What this means is that there is always a chance, however small, that you could discover a leak in your roof when the roofing material should still be in good shape. But this is rare, and those regular inspections should be able to spot most problems before they actually reach the leaking-ceiling stage.
If you want a tough roof that is easy to keep in great shape, spray foam may be the material you're looking for. Arrange a consultation with a local roofing contractor to discuss how spray foam might benefit your property.