Foam roofs are common in Arizona for flat mechanical areas. They provide insulation and reflective coating to reflect heat and lower energy bills.The foam is a polyurethane foam that is sprayed directly onto a roof deck at approximately one inch thick as it is very sticky and adheres well. Sometimes it can be added to existing foam roofs in low spots. It creates a very effective water-tight seal.

The top coat over the foam is an elastomeric coating, typically white with UV reflective qualities. Typically, there are two elastomeric coats, a base and a top coat. Base is many times a different color as an indicator when the top coat is wearing though do to sun or weather damage, and will need to be re-coated every 5-7 years depending the thickness of the elastomeric coats which can increase the longevity of the foam. If the foam is not maintained properly, the foam can be compromised and the foam may need to be replaced. This means an increased cost from a re-coat to a total re-roof which means removing all the foam off the deck.