Kool Seal Tundra 100% Silicone: Benefits for Flat Roofs & Why Use Gray as a First Coat on Asphalt Roofs
Posted by eCoatingStore.com on Mar 30th 2026
When it comes to restoring and protecting flat roofs, 100% silicone roof coatings are one of the most reliable solutions available. Among them, Kool Seal Tundra 100% Silicone Roof Coating stands out for its durability, waterproofing performance, and ease of application.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
• The key benefits of using Kool Seal Tundra on flat roofs
• Why silicone outperforms traditional coatings
• Why applying Tundra Gray as a first coat on asphalt roofs is a smart, professional approach
Why Choose Kool Seal Tundra 100% Silicone?
Flat roofs are constantly exposed to harsh conditions—UV rays, standing water, and temperature fluctuations. Kool Seal Tundra is designed to handle all of it.
Key Benefits of Kool Seal Tundra Silicone
✔ Unmatched Ponding Water Resistance
Unlike acrylic coatings, silicone does not soften or break down under standing water. This makes Tundra ideal for flat roofs where drainage may be limited.
✔ Long-Term Waterproofing
Tundra creates a seamless membrane that seals cracks, seams, fasteners, and penetrations—eliminating common leak points.
✔ Superior UV Protection
Silicone reflects UV rays and resists degradation, extending the life of your roof and reducing maintenance.
✔ Flexibility & Movement Resistance
Flat roofs expand and contract. Silicone remains flexible, preventing cracking over time.
✔ Easy Maintenance & Recoating
Silicone roofs can be cleaned and recoated without full removal, saving long-term costs.
Why Silicone Outperforms Other Roof Coatings
|
Coating Type |
Ponding Water |
UV Resistance |
Lifespan |
|
Acrylic |
Poor |
Good |
Moderate |
|
Asphalt |
Poor |
Low |
Short |
|
Urethane |
Fair |
Good |
Moderate |
|
100% Silicone (Tundra) |
Excellent |
Excellent |
Long |
For flat roofs—especially in areas with heavy rain or humidity—silicone is the top-performing choice.
Why Use Tundra Gray as a First Coat on Asphalt Roofs
When coating an asphalt-based roof (modified bitumen, BUR, etc.), using a gray base coatbefore applying a white top coat is a best practice used by professional contractors.
1. Blocks Asphalt Bleed-Through
Asphalt roofs can release oils over time, which may:
• Discolor white coatings
• Cause yellowing or staining
Applying Tundra Gray as the first coat helps block these oils and creates a stable base for the white finish coat.
2. Improves Coverage & Uniformity
Gray provides a contrasting base layer, making it easier to:
• See coverage during application
• Avoid missed spots
• Ensure proper mil thickness
This results in a more uniform and professional finish.
3. Enhances Adhesion
A base coat helps the system:
• Bond better to the substrate
• Create a stronger overall coating system
Especially important when dealing with aged or weathered asphalt roofs.
4. Builds Proper Film Thickness
Using a two-coat system (gray + white) allows you to:
• Achieve recommended mil thickness
• Improve long-term durability
• Extend the life of the coating system
5. Final White Coat Maximizes Reflectivity
After applying the gray base coat, a white top coat:
• Reflects sunlight
• Reduces roof temperatures
• Improves energy efficiency
This combination gives you both performance and aesthetics.
Recommended Application System for Asphalt Roofs
Step 1: Surface Preparation
• Clean roof thoroughly (pressure wash + cleaner if needed)
• Remove debris, dirt, and loose materials
• Allow surface to fully dry
Step 2: Repairs
• Seal cracks, seams, and penetrations
• Tighten or replace fasteners
• Reinforce weak areas
Step 3: Apply Tundra Gray Base Coat
• Apply evenly at recommended coverage rate
• Allow proper cure time
Step 4: Apply Tundra White Top Coat
• Apply second coat perpendicular to first
• Ensure full coverage and proper thickness
When Is This System Ideal?
This gray + white silicone system is perfect for:
• Modified bitumen roofs
• Built-up roofing (BUR)
• Older asphalt roofs showing signs of wear
• Flat or low-slope roofs with ponding water
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to restore and protect a flat roof, Kool Seal Tundra 100% Silicone offers long-term performance, waterproofing, and durability.
And when working over asphalt roofs, applying Tundra Gray as a first coat is not just a recommendation—it’s a proven method to:
✔ Prevent bleed-through
✔ Improve adhesion
✔ Ensure proper coverage
✔ Extend the life of your coating system
For best results, always follow proper prep and application guidelines—and use a complete system designed for performance.