null

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.