Dealing with an aging asphalt roof, I’ve seen firsthand how crucial a good seam sealer is. Those small cracks and worn seams aren’t just cosmetic issues; they’re potential entry points for water, leading to costly damage. Finding the best asphalt roof seam sealer can feel overwhelming with so many options out there, but I’ve put together this guide to share my insights and help you pick the right product to protect your home. We’ll dive into 10 reliable choices, comparing their benefits and uses so you can make an informed decision.
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BXI Fluorocarbon Film Asphalt Waterproof Tape, 12 Inches X… |
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BXI Flashing Roll Tape Membrane, 4 inches X 32 Feet… |
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[Black] Professional Automotive Seam Sealer, Paintable… |
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[Black] 2 Pack Professional Automotive Seam Sealer,… |
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GAF Roof Deck Seam Tape (4″ x 67′) – Seals… |
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Black Jack 6190 Roof and Foundation Liquid Asphalt Coating,… |
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Polyurethane Seam Sealer Automotive Compound Kit – Durable… |
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Professional Automotive Seam Sealer, Paintable Quick-Set… |
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Frienda 2 Rolls Flashing Tape Waterproof Patch Seal Tape… |
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Countryman Coatings 100% Silicone Roof Coating – Restore… |
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Contents
- 1. BXI Fluorocarbon Film Asphalt Waterproof Tape, 12 Inches X…
- 2. BXI Flashing Roll Tape Membrane, 4 inches X 32 Feet…
- 3. [Black] Professional Automotive Seam Sealer, Paintable…
- 4. [Black] 2 Pack Professional Automotive Seam Sealer,…
- 5. GAF Roof Deck Seam Tape (4″ x 67′) – Seals…
- 6. Black Jack 6190 Roof and Foundation Liquid Asphalt Coating,…
- 7. Polyurethane Seam Sealer Automotive Compound Kit – Durable…
- 8. Professional Automotive Seam Sealer, Paintable Quick-Set…
- 9. Frienda 2 Rolls Flashing Tape Waterproof Patch Seal Tape…
- 10. Countryman Coatings 100% Silicone Roof Coating – Restore…
- Comparison Short Insights
- Final Verdict
- Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. BXI Fluorocarbon Film Asphalt Waterproof Tape, 12 Inches X…
This BXI tape is a heavy-duty solution designed for serious waterproofing, offering a robust barrier against the elements. Its unique fluorocarbon film surface provides exceptional weather resistance, ensuring the tape won’t crack in cold or melt in heat, making it a long-lasting choice for critical repairs. The dual-layer design with SBS polymer modified rubber asphalt offers both surface protection and deep substrate penetration for a complete, self-healing seal.
Key features that stand out:
– Fluorocarbon Film Surface: Up to 20 years of anti-aging performance, extreme temperature stability, UV reflection, and stain resistance.
– Double Waterproof Design: PVDF membrane for a strong moisture barrier and bitumen layer for deep crack filling and bonding.
– Exceptional Elasticity: Maintains watertight seal despite thermal expansion and contraction.
– Versatile Applications: Ideal for roofs, gutters, concrete, metal, and even as a root barrier.
Pros:
– Extremely durable and long-lasting with excellent weather resistance.
– Reflects UV rays, helping reduce surface temperature.
– Self-healing properties for minor damage.
– Easy to cut and apply, even on corners.
Cons:
– May require warming in very cold temperatures for optimal adhesion.
Best for: Comprehensive, long-term repairs on larger asphalt roof seams, flat roofs, or areas needing maximum durability and UV protection.
Expert Opinion: This tape is a high-performance choice for those looking for maximum longevity and resistance to environmental stress. The fluorocarbon film truly sets it apart for outdoor durability.
2. BXI Flashing Roll Tape Membrane, 4 inches X 32 Feet…
For a more general-purpose, yet still highly effective, flashing and sealing solution, this BXI tape comes in a convenient 4-inch width. Its silver aluminum foil backing offers UV resistance and paintability, making it a versatile option for various repairs. The bitumen component ensures deep penetration into cracks for a strong, lasting seal, perfect for quick and reliable fixes on different surfaces.
Key features that stand out:
– Exceptional Waterproofing: Bitumen gradually penetrates cracks for a strong, long-lasting seal.
– Outstanding Features: Super sticky, stretchy even at low temperatures, paintable silver aluminum foil backing, UV-resistant.
– Durable Construction: Thick, flame retardant, puncture, and abrasion resistant.
– Versatile Applications: Great for roofs, windows, doors, RVs, chimneys, and gutters.
Pros:
– Super sticky and maintains flexibility in various temperatures.
– Aluminum foil backing is paintable and UV-resistant.
– Easy, self-adhesive installation with no primer or torching needed.
Cons:
– Smaller width might mean more strips for wider seams.
Best for: General flashing, sealing smaller asphalt roof seams, gutter repairs, and areas where a paintable finish is desired.
Expert Opinion: A solid all-around performer for everyday waterproofing needs, especially where a cleaner, paintable finish is a plus. It’s user-friendly and very sticky.
3. [Black] Professional Automotive Seam Sealer, Paintable…
While primarily marketed for automotive use, this professional seam sealer’s robust formulation makes it a viable option for certain asphalt roof seam applications, especially for smaller, targeted repairs or sealing around roof vents and flashing. It boasts strong adhesion to various surfaces and a quick 30-minute cure time before being paint-ready, ensuring a fast turnaround on your repair.
Key features that stand out:
– Bonds to All Surfaces: Strong adhesion to primed, painted, or bare metal, suitable for RV roofs.
– All-Weather Performance: Withstands extreme weather without shrinking or cracking, maintains flexibility.
– Easy Application: Compatible with any standard urethane caulk gun, no surface prep needed.
– Quick Curing: Ready for paint in just 30 minutes.
Pros:
– Extremely fast curing for quick project completion.
– Highly flexible and durable, preventing shrinking or cracking.
– Easy to apply with a standard caulk gun, minimal prep required.
Cons:
– Designed for automotive/RV, so coverage for large roof areas might be impractical.
Best for: Small, precise asphalt roof seam repairs, sealing around vents, skylights, or flashing where quick drying and paintability are priorities.
Expert Opinion: This is an excellent choice for targeted, smaller asphalt roof seam work that requires a quick-setting, paintable, and durable seal. Its flexibility is a major advantage.
4. [Black] 2 Pack Professional Automotive Seam Sealer,…
This 2-pack offers the same reliable, professional-grade automotive seam sealer as the single tube, making it a more economical choice for those with larger projects or multiple repair needs. Its core benefits remain the same: superior adhesion, all-weather flexibility, and a quick-set, paintable finish, useful for specific roof sealing tasks.
Key features that stand out:
– Bonds to All Surfaces: Strong adhesion to primed, painted, or bare metal, effective for RV roofs.
– All-Weather Performance: Maintains flexibility without shrinking or cracking in diverse conditions.
– Easy Application: Works with standard caulk guns, no surface prep needed.
– Quick Curing: Paintable in 30 minutes.
Pros:
– Economical 2-pack for more extensive repairs or multiple projects.
– Fast cure time and paintable finish.
– Excellent flexibility and durability against weather.
Cons:
– Still primarily designed for automotive/RV applications, not large-scale traditional asphalt roof sealing.
Best for: Those needing multiple tubes for small to medium-sized asphalt roof seam repairs, RV roof sealing, or automotive bodywork where the same high-performance sealer is required.
Expert Opinion: If you’re tackling several targeted asphalt roof seam repairs or an RV roof, this 2-pack offers great value with the same trusted performance for quick, durable results.
5. GAF Roof Deck Seam Tape (4″ x 67′) – Seals…
GAF is a well-known name in roofing, and their Roof Deck Seam Tape is specifically engineered to provide an extra layer of protection at deck joints. Made from fiberglass-reinforced SBS-modified asphalt, it’s designed to seal around fasteners and provide enhanced defense against water intrusion, particularly valuable under extreme weather conditions.
Key features that stand out:
– Enhanced Protection: Self-adhering layer against water intrusion at deck joints.
– Fastener Sealing: Self-seals around fasteners for added protection.
– Durable Construction: Fiberglass-reinforced SBS-modified asphalt for long-lasting strength.
– Improved Traction: Textured outer surface for safer installation.
– Code Compliant: Meets or exceeds ASTM D1970 requirements and other building codes.
Pros:
– Specifically designed for roof deck joints, offering superior protection where needed most.
– Self-seals around fasteners, a crucial benefit for longevity.
– Durable, code-compliant construction from a reputable brand.
Cons:
– Primarily for deck joints rather than exposed, finished asphalt roof seams.
Best for: Professional roof installations or significant repairs where sealing roof deck joints and around fasteners is critical, providing an underlying layer of defense.
Expert Opinion: This is a specialized, high-quality product from a trusted brand, essential for robust roof construction and ensuring underlying waterproofing, rather than a top-layer asphalt seam repair.
6. Black Jack 6190 Roof and Foundation Liquid Asphalt Coating,…
The Black Jack 6190 is a versatile liquid asphalt emulsion that goes beyond just seams; it’s designed for waterproofing, resurfacing, and sealing entire roof surfaces and even foundations. This solvent-free, water-based coating renews worn surfaces, making it a practical solution for larger areas or multiple repair tasks.
Key features that stand out:
– Multi-Purpose: Waterproofing, resurfacing, and sealing applications for roofs and foundations.
– Non-Fibered Asphalt Emulsion: Odorless and solvent-free for easier application and cleanup.
– Renews Surfaces: Helps renew worn roof surfaces.
– Protects Underground: Can seal and protect underground wood footings and metal surfaces.
Pros:
– Environmentally friendlier due to being water-based and solvent-free.
– Great for large-area coverage and renewing worn roofs.
– Easy water cleanup.
Cons:
– Liquid coating format might be messier or require more curing time than tapes or caulk.
Best for: Restoring and waterproofing larger areas of asphalt roofs, sealing numerous seams simultaneously, or protecting foundations and other surfaces.
Expert Opinion: For extensive asphalt roof work where you need to refresh and seal broad areas, this liquid coating is a cost-effective and environmentally conscious solution, though it requires a bit more application care.
7. Polyurethane Seam Sealer Automotive Compound Kit – Durable…
This polyurethane seam sealer kit provides a comprehensive solution for patching large cracks and filling gaps, often suitable for RV roofs and automotive applications, but also transferable to some residential asphalt roof tasks. Its thick, single-component formula offers superior adhesion, flexibility, and a non-shrinking, non-cracking finish that resists corrosion.
Key features that stand out:
– Plug Any Void: Easily patches large cracks with confidence, thick compound for superior adhesion.
– Complete Kit: Includes nitrile gloves and application tip for seamless use with a standard caulking gun.
– Permanently Fill Gaps: Non-shrinking, non-cracking, low odor, remains remarkably flexible.
– Primer and Paint Ready: Quick-curing (45 mins to settle, ready in 24 hours), allows for a flawless finish.
– All-Weather Performance: Enhanced moisture curing properties for interior or exterior use.
Pros:
– Comes with a complete kit for immediate use.
– Exceptionally durable, flexible, and resistant to shrinking/cracking.
– Good for larger cracks and voids where precision is needed.
Cons:
– Curing time is longer than some “quick-set” alternatives.
Best for: Detailed asphalt roof seam repairs, especially for larger gaps and cracks around flashing, vents, or dormers where a durable, flexible, and paintable seal is desired.
Expert Opinion: This kit is excellent for more substantial asphalt roof seam repairs that demand a highly durable, flexible, and long-lasting seal, even if it means a slightly longer cure time.
8. Professional Automotive Seam Sealer, Paintable Quick-Set…
This product is essentially the same professional automotive seam sealer as reviewed earlier, emphasizing its “Quick-Set” capability. It provides strong adhesion to various surfaces, a rapid 30-minute paint-ready cure, and the flexibility to withstand extreme weather without cracking or shrinking. Its versatility makes it a practical option for specific asphalt roof seam repairs.
Key features that stand out:
– Bonds to All Surfaces: Strong adhesion to primed, painted, or bare metal, including RV roofs.
– All-Weather Performance: Flexible and durable, resisting shrinking and cracking in extreme conditions.
– Easy Application: Compatible with standard urethane caulk guns, no surface prep needed.
– Quick-Set: Ready for paint in just 30 minutes.
Pros:
– Extremely fast setting and paintable, ideal for quick fixes.
– Highly flexible and durable, ensuring a long-lasting seal.
– Easy to apply with standard tools, minimal surface preparation.
Cons:
– Best suited for smaller, precision applications rather than extensive roof sealing.
Best for: Rapid asphalt roof seam repairs, sealing small gaps around roof penetrations, or areas needing a fast, paintable, and durable finish.
Expert Opinion: For asphalt roof repairs that can’t wait and need to be durable and paintable, this quick-set sealer delivers professional results efficiently.
9. Frienda 2 Rolls Flashing Tape Waterproof Patch Seal Tape…
This 2-roll pack of flashing tape is a practical and economical solution for various waterproofing and sealing tasks, including asphalt roof seams. Similar to other self-adhesive bitumen tapes, it effectively fills cracks and provides a lasting waterproof barrier. Its rolling condition ensures easy storage and portability, making it a handy item for any homeowner.
Key features that stand out:
– Package List: Comes in a convenient 2-roll pack, providing ample material.
– Waterproof and Sturdy: Asphalt-based tape provides protection against harsh weather and fills cracks for a long-lasting seal.
– Self-Adhesive Feature: Easy to cut and apply to desired locations, no extra adhesive needed.
– Wide Applications: Suitable for roofs, windows, gutters, pipes, RV roofs, and concrete walls.
Pros:
– Economical 2-pack for good value.
– Easy to use self-adhesive application, no specialized tools.
– Effective at sealing cracks and providing a waterproof barrier.
Cons:
– Might not offer the same high-end features (e.g., fluorocarbon film) as premium tapes.
Best for: General asphalt roof seam repairs, quick patches on gutters or flashing, and other home waterproofing projects where a straightforward, self-adhesive solution is needed.
Expert Opinion: A good, no-frills option for general asphalt roof seam sealing. It’s effective, easy to use, and the two-pack offers decent value for various repair tasks.
10. Countryman Coatings 100% Silicone Roof Coating – Restore…
Countryman Coatings offers a 100% Silicone Roof Coating designed to restore, protect, and extend the life of various roof types, including modified bitumen and granulated cap sheet, which are often part of asphalt roofing systems. This high-performance liquid coating is primer-free, highly reflective, and designed for single-coat application, making it an excellent choice for broad coverage and long-term roof restoration.
Key features that stand out:
– Restore, Protect, Extend: Applicable to many roof types, including various asphalt-based systems.
– No Primer Required: Strong adhesion without a primer in most situations.
– Reduce Energy Spend: Industry-leading reflectivity (nearly 90% UV reflection) to keep buildings cool.
– Efficient Application: Average 1 gallon per 55 square feet, can be applied thicker in one coat.
– Made in America: Quality assurance and ready availability.
Pros:
– Significantly extends roof life and improves energy efficiency.
– Versatile application over many existing roof materials.
– No primer needed, simplifying the application process.
Cons:
– Designed for entire roof restoration, not just specific seam repairs, so it’s a bigger project.
Best for: Complete asphalt roof restoration where you want to significantly extend the roof’s lifespan, improve energy efficiency, and create a seamless, waterproof barrier across the entire surface.
Expert Opinion: While not a “seam sealer” in the traditional sense, this silicone coating is a fantastic solution for revitalizing an entire asphalt roof, effectively sealing all seams as part of a larger protective layer. It’s a long-term investment in your roof’s health.
Comparison Short Insights
When looking for the best asphalt roof seam sealer, you’ll notice a few main types. Tapes, like the BXI Fluorocarbon and Frienda Flashing Tape, offer quick, peel-and-stick application and are great for direct crack and seam coverage. They often come with different backings, such as fluorocarbon for extreme durability or aluminum foil for UV resistance and paintability.
Liquid or caulk-gun sealers, like the Professional Automotive Seam Sealers or the Polyurethane kit, provide a more flexible and precise application for irregular gaps or smaller, specific repairs. These are often paintable and quick-curing, ideal for areas around flashing or vents where aesthetics matter. Remember, while some automotive sealers can work on asphalt roofs, they’re generally for smaller, targeted fixes, not broad roof coverage.
Then there are broader coating solutions, like the Black Jack Liquid Asphalt or Countryman Coatings Silicone. These aren’t just for seams but are excellent for renewing and waterproofing larger roof areas, effectively sealing all seams as part of a bigger project. They offer long-term protection and can significantly extend roof life, but require more extensive application.
Consider your project’s scope: tapes are great for quick, linear fixes, caulk-style sealers for precise, detailed gaps, and liquid coatings for full roof restoration. Each has its strengths in providing a durable and reliable asphalt roof seam sealer solution.
Final Verdict
Choosing the best asphalt roof seam sealer truly depends on the specific job at hand. For those critical, long-lasting repairs on major asphalt roof seams where maximum durability and UV protection are paramount, the BXI Fluorocarbon Film Asphalt Waterproof Tape stands out as an exceptional performer. Its advanced film ensures a virtually maintenance-free seal for decades.
If you’re dealing with various smaller leaks, patching gutters, or sealing around flashing, the BXI Flashing Roll Tape Membrane or the Frienda 2 Rolls Flashing Tape offer fantastic, easy-to-use, self-adhesive solutions. For precision work, especially around vents or complex roof penetrations where a quick, paintable, and flexible seal is key, the Professional Automotive Seam Sealer (single or 2-pack) or the Polyurethane Seam Sealer Automotive Compound Kit will deliver professional-grade results.
Finally, for significant asphalt roof restoration where you need to refresh an aging roof and seal all seams as part of a comprehensive waterproofing strategy, the Black Jack 6190 Roof and Foundation Liquid Asphalt Coating provides a solvent-free solution for large areas, while the Countryman Coatings 100% Silicone Roof Coating offers superior longevity, energy efficiency, and broad-spectrum adhesion. Ultimately, assess your needs – a quick patch, a precise fill, or a full overhaul – and you’ll find an excellent asphalt roof seam sealer among these top contenders.
Comprehensive FAQ Section
Q1: What is the best asphalt roof seam sealer for long-term durability?
A1: For long-term durability, tapes with advanced materials like the BXI Fluorocarbon Film Asphalt Waterproof Tape are excellent. Its fluorocarbon film offers exceptional UV resistance and temperature stability, providing up to 20 years of anti-aging performance. Silicone coatings, like Countryman Coatings, also offer incredible longevity when applied as a full roof system.
Q2: Can I use automotive seam sealer on my asphalt roof?
A2: Yes, automotive seam sealers, such as the Professional Automotive Seam Sealer options reviewed, can be effective for small, targeted repairs on asphalt roofs, especially around flashing, vents, or other penetrations. They offer excellent flexibility and adhesion. However, they are generally not suitable for large, extensive asphalt roof seam sealing jobs.
Q3: Is it better to use a tape or a liquid/caulk-style sealer for asphalt roof seams?
A3: It depends on the repair. Tapes (like BXI Flashing Roll Tape) are great for linear cracks, quick patches, and larger, relatively flat seams due to their ease of application. Liquid or caulk-style sealers (like the Polyurethane Seam Sealer Kit) offer more precision for irregular gaps, holes, or around complex shapes where a uniform, flexible bead is needed. Both can be effective asphalt roof seam sealer options.
Q4: How important is UV resistance in an asphalt roof seam sealer?
A4: UV resistance is extremely important. Constant exposure to sunlight’s UV rays can degrade sealers over time, leading to cracking, drying out, and reduced effectiveness. Products with fluorocarbon films, aluminum foil backings, or silicone formulations inherently offer better UV resistance, ensuring a longer-lasting asphalt roof seam sealer.
Q5: What should I look for when choosing an asphalt roof seam sealer for cold climates?
A5: In cold climates, look for an asphalt roof seam sealer that specifies flexibility at low temperatures. Products like the BXI Flashing Roll Tape Membrane are designed to stay stretchy even at low temperatures, preventing cracking as the roof expands and contracts. Some tapes might require warming slightly for optimal adhesion in very cold conditions.
Q6: Can I paint over an asphalt roof seam sealer?
A6: Many caulk-style polyurethane seam sealers, like the Professional Automotive Seam Sealer, are explicitly designed to be paintable after they cure. Some tapes with aluminum foil backing (e.g., BXI Flashing Roll Tape Membrane) are also paintable. Always check the product description to ensure compatibility before painting your asphalt roof seam sealer.
Q7: How do I prepare the surface before applying asphalt roof seam sealer?
A7: Proper surface preparation is crucial for effective sealing. Generally, you should clean the area thoroughly, removing any loose debris, dirt, dust, grease, or old peeling sealant. The surface should be completely dry. Some sealers require no special prep, but a clean, dry surface always ensures the best adhesion for your asphalt roof seam sealer.
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