How to Choose a Waterproofing System for Metal Roofs in Saudi Arabia

2 hours ago

2 min read

Metal roofs cover most warehouses, factories and distribution centres in Saudi Arabia. They are quick to build and long-lasting, but the climate is hard on them. In Jeddah and along the Red Sea coast, roofs face strong sun, surface temperatures well above the air temperature, salty humid air and short, heavy rain. Over time, screws loosen, joints open, gutters rust and water finds its way inside.

Choosing the right waterproofing system from the start saves repeated repairs and protects the goods and equipment under the roof.

1. Start with a proper roof inspection

Every good waterproofing job starts with an inspection. A specialist should check:

Rust on sheets, gutters, screws and fixings
Open laps, joints and ridge caps
Damaged or missing screws and washers
Ponding water and blocked gutters
Previous coatings that are peeling or cracked

The inspection decides how much preparation the roof needs and which system will last.

2. Know the main system options

Liquid-applied elastomeric coatings. A flexible coating rolled or sprayed over the whole roof, usually with reinforcing fabric at joints, screws and gutters. It forms one seamless membrane, reflects sunlight and is a cost-effective choice for most metal roofs in good structural condition.

Polyurethane foam (PUF) spray. Sprayed foam that waterproofs and insulates in one step, finished with a protective top coat. It is a strong choice where heat inside the building is a problem, because it reduces the heat passing through the roof.

Hot-applied spray polyurea. A very tough, fast-curing membrane applied with special equipment. It suits roofs and tanks that need high resistance to abrasion and standing water.

Anti-rust protective coating systems. Where rust has started, the steel must be cleaned and treated, then protected with an anti-rust primer and a UV-resistant top coat before or as part of the waterproofing.

3. Pay attention to the weak points

Most leaks on metal roofs start at the same places: gutters, overlaps, screws, skylights and roof penetrations. A good system treats these first, usually with a reinforced membrane, before the full roof coating is applied.

4. Think about heat as well as water

In Saudi Arabia, a white, reflective top coat can noticeably reduce roof temperature. If staff work under the roof or goods are heat-sensitive, consider a system that adds thermal insulation, such as polyurethane foam.

5. Choose certified materials and an experienced applicator

Use materials from established manufacturers with technical data sheets for hot climates, and an applicator who follows the manufacturer's preparation and thickness requirements. Ask for references from similar projects.

How NTCC can help

Since 2000, New Target Contracting Corporation (NTCC) has waterproofed and protected metal roofs for warehouses, factories and distribution centres across Saudi Arabia, including large projects in Jeddah, Makkah and Riyadh. We apply certified systems from leading manufacturers and offer a free site inspection.