FAQ's

WHAT SURFACES AND SUBSTRATES WILL GACOPRO AND GACOPRO ECO STICK TO?

GacoPro and GacoPro Eco 100% Silicone, liquid applied coating / membrane adheres to all clean, dry roofing substrates. Typically the most common substrates are aged Asphalt, Felt, Metal profile Roofs, Single Ply, EPDM, TPO, Concrete Roofs, Sprayed Polyurethane Foam, Fiberglass, Asbestos, Lead, gutters, valleys, WPB Plywood etc. GacoPro and GacoPro Eco are perfect for all Industrial, Commercial and Residential flat and low pictched roofing.

WHAT COLOURS DOES GACOPRO AND GACOPRO ECO COME IN?

GacoPro and GacoPro Eco are available in White and Gray.  You may use either as first or top coat, white is the best from point of view of reflecting the sun's roof damaging UV rays during summer months.

DOES GACOPRO AND GACOPRO ECO CRACK FROM OVEREXPOSURE TO THE SUN?

No. GacoPro and GacoPro Eco do not break down and remain flexible at all times, in freezing and hot days, so it will not crack. When you use the Gaco systems white as the finish / top coat, as heat is virtually eliminated, expansion / contraction is practically eliminated, another reason why the Gaco systems last so long. GacoPro and GacoPro Eco's inbuilt flexibility copes with most structural movement also without damage. 

WHAT HAPPENS IF I DON'T USE THE ENTIRE CAN RIGHT AWAY AND A SKIN FORMS?

Skinning is when the topmost layer of coating begins to cure in the can. Silicone is moisture-cured, so high heat and humidity will cause the product to skin. If surface skins, remove skinned material from container. To minimise skinning over several days, gently pour about 12mm layer of 100% mineral spirits on top of product until it is completely covered and do not move can until ready to reuse. When ready, pour off the white spirit layer, and stir can contents thoroughly with a power mixer. Keep container tightly closed between applications to minimise surface skinning.

CAN GACOPRO SILICONE FLAT ROOF COATING BE APPLIED WITH A SPRAYER?

Althougth it is fast to apply by roller; GacoPro and GacoPro Eco may be spray applied with appropriate spraying equipment and in appropriate conditions, i.e. large jobs with proper precautions taken re overspray etc. GacoPro must be sprayed without thinning. For details on suggested spraying equipment please contact us.

WHAT ABOUT FELT, ASPHALT, EPDM, TPO AND SINGLE PLY ROOFS?

GacoPro and GacoPro Eco may be applied to aged EPDM; TPO & Single Ply roofs but may require the use of a primer. To verify adhesion, use the GacoPro Adhesion Test Kit, which provides results in just 24 hours. If the test reflects poor adhesion, prime all surfaces with Gaco 5320 Primer according to label directions. Call for more information and specific recommendations.

CAN GACOPRO AND GACOPRO ECO BE APPLIED TO A ROOF DECK OR WALKWAYS?

Silicone can be slick, especially when the surface is wet, so GacoPro and GacoPro Eco should not be used for areas with regular foot traffic; however Gaco WalkPad; an additional yellow top coat can be intstalled with a non slip surface for periodical maintenance foot traffic. Ask about our GacoDeck Kit which is a better choice for roof decks or balconies, GacoDeck Kit has been designed for additional grip and foot traffic.

CAN THE GACOPRO FLAT ROOF SYSTEM BE PRESSURE WASHED?

You can pressure wash GacoPro at a low pressure (below 2500psi). Do not aim nozzle of power washer close to the roof surface. You can also use a soft bristle sweeping brush and a garden hose.

WHAT IS THE COVERAGE OF GACOPRO AND GACOPRO ECO?

GacoPro: Because two coats are required, the coverage for the completed project is 1 U.S. gallon per 4m2 or 40 square feet. (You can use this rate to roughly figure out how many gallons you need to purchase). Nearest metric coverage rate is 40m2 per 5 U.S (aprox 19L). gallon per coat. Note: We recommend when pricing jobs to cover yourself by allowing 10 to 15% additional material for first coat, especially where surface is rough, cracked etc. Estimate your needs on basis of 5 U.S. gallon can covering 20 m2 (assuming two coats of same colour applied, but under normal conditions you would apply the grey as first coat and white as finish or visa versa.) Example: 100m2 roof. Requires 2 x 5 U.S. gall GacoPro Grey + 2 x 5 U.S. gall GacoPro White. (allow for waste or rough surfaces) Note: We recommend three coats on WPB Plywood.

GacoPro Eco: contact us for more information.

IS THERE A MILDICIDE IN GACOPRO? DOES GACOPRO SUSTAIN MOULD OR MILDEW?

There is no mildicide in GacoPro, because mildew does not grow on the surface of GacoPro. Unlike acrylic coatings, GacoPro is inert and does not provide a food source for mildew or mold.

HOW DOES GACOPRO AND GACOPRO ECO COMPARE TO THE ACRYLIC ROOF COATINGS?

1. GacoPro and GacoPro Eco are long lasting and have a 20-year limited warranty. GacoPro and GacoPro Eco generally lasts as long as the substrate they are applied to. Acrylics, if they have a warranty at all, are covered for only 3-5 years. 2. GacoPro and GacoPro Eco can withstand PERMANENTLY ponding water. There are no acrylics that will stand up to the stress of permanent ponding water without bubbling or adhesive failure. 3. GacoPro can be applied in a wide temperature range 0c up to 48c (32-120 degrees F). Acrylics cannot be applied at temperatures below 12c or above 32c (55 degrees or above 90 degrees F). 4. All acrylics require a primer coat. GacoPro does not require any primer, sealer, fleece or patch compound. 5. GacoPro and GacoPro Eco do not require a recoat; reflect harmful UV rays and keeps your roof in good order. Silicone is inert, and does not degrade or wear away. Acrylics require a recoat every 3-5 years; making Gaco the better option every time.

ARE YOU SURE MY FLAT ROOF DOES NOT NEED A PRIMER COAT? DO I NEED TO PRIME METAL FLASHING OR OTHER METAL SURFACES?

Metal flashing should either be primed with an exterior metal primer, or lightly sanded. Most other flat roof / low pitch roof surfaces do not require a primer before applying GacoPro. GacoPro: the two coat system has a "built in" primer and the GacoPro Eco system uses a two part primer called E5320. Contact us to find out more.

DOES GACOPRO AND GACOPRO ECO SAVE ON ENERGY?

In warm weather / climates, GacoPro and GacoPro Eco white Silicone, dramatically reduces the roof surface temperature which automatically reduces temperatures inside the building / under the roof deck. In instances where it is usually necessary to use air conditioning to keep a building cool in warm weather, GacoPro Silicone (white) will definitely reduce the need for A/C usage which means you can expect to make savings on energy. Savings ratio will depend on temperature, insulation used etc. Metal buildings or buildings with dark roofs such as old felt, asphalt etc become quite warm in sunny weather and GacoPro can make a significant difference to the comfort levels of the occupants working / living in there.

IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE WHITE AND GREY COLOUR OPTIONS?

Technically both colours are the same, however, most importantly, the GacoPro white roof coating reflects away +/- 85% of the sun's heat whereas the GacoPro grey does not, or if so, to a much lesser extent. Less heat on your flat roof means your roof is not subjected to the damaging expansion / contraction that takes place on non-white roofs which means, the GacoPro white roof coating adds substantially to the life of your roof. If you want grey as your finish, that is ok but remember the grey does not have the same heat reflecting characteristics as the white. Another very useful benefit of using two colours as first and second coat is, you can easily see what you've covered and any areas not covered (initial substrate or first coat) enough will show through, meaning more GacoPro is required to cover properly & achieve the correct film thickness.

GACOPRO AND GACOPRO ECO ARE PERFECT FOR FLAT ROOFS BUT CAN I USE THEM ON MY PITCHED ROOFS?

GacoPro are GacoPro are ideal for flat and low pitched roofs, channels, gutters etc. Use extreme caution when on a pitched roof. Follow all safety guidelines to avoid injury; contact us for more information.

DOES GACOPRO AND GACOPRO ECO HAVE CERTIFCATES?

Yes, GacoPro and GacoPro Eco has certificates and have been tested thoroughly.
 

WHAT TEMPERATURES / CONDITIONS ARE REQUIRED TO APPLY GACOPRO AND GACOPRO ECO?

GacoPro can be applied to clean dry surfaces in a wide temperature range. From 0c up to 48c (32-120 degrees F). 0 c degrees roof surface temperature. Do not apply below or outside those values. Contact us for more information about GacoPro Eco.

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO APPLY GACOPRO AND GACOPRO ON FLAT ROOFS, CORRUGATED STEEL AND ASBESTOS ROOFS?

Full training is given to approved contractors. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the handiest method on flat roofs is a long handled paint roller around 9" with medium pile. Some contractors pour a trail of GacoPro along marked out by appropriate can coverage area and then use serrated edge squeegees to get the main part of the coat spread out and follow on with roller(s). GacoPro should be rolled out liberally to allow for adequate film thickness on finished job. A mini roller or good brush probably best for upstands, parapets and other difficult places. Spraying is possible but is only viable on big jobs. You will require a 70:1 air driven airless pump (ask for spec if required) Conditions must be calm to minimise overspray, make sure no cars around!! Erect rolling shield to trap unwanted drift etc. On corrugated roofs such as asbestos, a long pile roller generally does a good job as it gets into the valleys reasonable well.

IF IT RAINS ON TOP OF MY RECENTLY APPLIED GACOPRO AND GACOPRO ECO ROOFING MATERIAL WHAT HAPPENS?

Apply GacoPro on to clean dry roofs when you are reasonably sure no rain is likely to come along for at least 2 hours. If it should happen to rain heavily before a skin forms on the GacoPro, it may take on an orange peel look, but will NOT wash off. While it will not necessarily damage it, top coat will not be affected. Remember, GacoPro is moisture cured. Contact us to find out more about GacoPro Eco.

HOW DO I DEAL WITH CRACKS AND HOLES ON ASPHALT, FELT ETC BEFORE APPLYING GACOPRO AND GACOPRO ECO?

After thoroughly cleaning and surface has dried, choose between Gaco 66S Polyester Reinforcing Fibre Cloth, Gaco Roof Tape (2 inch x 50ft rolls) or the fibre reinforced liquid version of GacoPro called Liquid Roof Tape which you can use to prep edges of upstands, sharp angles, around vents, screw heads etc.

CAN A ROOF COATED WITH GACOPRO OR GACOPRO ECO BE PAINTED OVER?

Given the fact that GacoPro is a Silicone material, it is not possible to overpaint with anything except a new coat of GacoPro. Note: If GacoPro white reflective finish is used, over 85% of the sun's damaging heat and UV rays will be deflected away so overpainting with traditional silver paint etc will not be necessary.

HOW DO YOU USE GACOPRO ON REPLACEMENT FLAT ROOF SHEETED WITH NEW WPB PLYWOOD?

GacoPro will stick directly to new dry WPB plywood (Do not use OSB Board). Lay the sheets side by side in the appropriate manner, apply Gaco Roof tape, 66-s Tape or the new Gaco Liquid Roof Tape along the joints. For extra effect, if regular Gaco Roof tape used, apply a strip of GacoPro over the tape prior to actual main coating application. Note: As the GacoPro first coat soaks into the WPB Plywood, we recommend you apply three coats.(For white finish... white / grey / white in that order) Note: If working to Part L 1B regulations ,that necessitates insulation upgrade, we suggest sheeting out over the insulation prior to coating with GacoPro.

WHEN USING OTHER LIQUID APPLIED ROOFING MATERIALS, I'VE ALWAYS USED MESH AND PRIMERS, WHY IS NOT REQUIRED WITH GACOPRO FLA ROOFING SYSTEM?

GacoPro is applied without mesh / fleece or primer directly to virtually all clean dry weathered / aged roof substrates. It stays strong, yet flexible. Although its not essential some contractors opt to use a fleece, scrim etc if working on very difficult surfaces.

I HAVE A LARGE FLAT ROOF COVERED WITH FELT. MOST OF IT IS IN REASONABLE CONDITION BUT WATER LODGES REGULARLY IN SEVERAL PLACES WHERE LEAKS ACCUR, AND WHILE ROOF REPLACEMENT WAS RECOMMENDED IT IS NOT A VIABLE OPTION RIGHT NOW, WILL GACOPRO AND GACOPRO ECO PROLONG THE LIFE OF THE ROOF?

Yes. Provided that the main roof structure is in sound condition, the answer is yes, GacoPro and GacoPro Eco, applied to an aged, weathered, clean and dry felt roof by an approved GacoPro applicator can add decades to the roof's life at a fraction of the cost of roof replacement. GacoPro and GacoPro Eco is the only flat roofing waterproofing system that is guaranteed to waterproof felt (or asphalt) roofs even under permanently ponding water.

WHERE CAN I FIND AND APPROVED APPLICATOR?

Please get in touch with us via our Contact Us page. Make sure you enter your full name and contact number and we will contact you with the relevant contractor(s).

WHO DO I CONTACT FOR TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE?

Please get in touch with us via our Contact Us page and we will have one of our technical advisors contact you without delay.

I AM A ROOFING BUSINESS; HOW DO I BECOME AN APPROVED APLLICATOR FOR GACO ROOFING SYSTEMS?

Thank you. As a general guide, we only work with long established, reputable, financially strong roofing contractors who take a big pride in their work. Please email us a written application; contact details are on the Contact Us page.

CAN GACOPRO AND GACOPRO ECO BE APPLIED TO A STEEL ROOF WHICH HAS SURFACE RUST?

Yes, but for best results on rusted surface, cut end corrosion etc and a longer lasting job, we recommend one coat of Owatrol Oil be applied first to all rusted areas and given at least 24 hours to cure / dry. Owatrol oil (also available from this company) will penetrate deeply into all rust pores and drive out any existing moisture or oxygen thereby sealing out further moisture ingress.

ARE THE GACO SYSTEMS SUITABLE AS A WATERPROOFER / ENCAPSULATOR FOR OLD CORRUGATED ASBESTOS ROOFS?

Yes, but proper cleaning and preparation must be carried out first. Depending on where you are located, local juristictions, rules, by-laws etc, special arrangements for the proper containment and disposal of contaminated run off etc must be in place. There are specialist contractors out there who can do a thorough job while following all the regulations and we can provide their details if required. Obviously, any work carried out on asbestos roofs requires the utmost care and attention to all health & safety matters.So, assuming proper cleaning done, GacoPro AND GacoPro Eco will bond extremely well to asbestos.

CAN I BUY GACOPRO OR GACOPRO ECO ONLINE?

Sorry no. To guarantee highest application standards & protect the good name of our products, GacoPro and GacoPro Eco are only available through approved professional applicators who must follow strict guidelines and procedures which we are happy to stand over. In certain circumstances where enquirers have their own crew of maintenance people, we will discuss your needs to determine best option. It is imperative that any applicator follows our strict guidelines to ensure high quality results and avoid problems. 

HOW LONG DOES GACOPRO AND GACOPRO ECO TAKE TO DRY?

GacoPro is moisture cured and drying times can vary. Curing is faster on warm humid days (not dry). As a general guide, apply first coat on day one and second coat on day two. Contact us for more information.

HOW MANY SQUARE METERS CAN BE COATED IN A DAY?

A few hundred square meters can easily be applied in a day by a small crew making GacoPro and GacoPro the fastest liquid applied roofing systems on the market.
 

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