Your commercial roof works hard day in and day out, protecting your business from the elements. But over time, even the most durable roofing systems start to show wear. The good news? You may not need a full replacement to restore protection and performance. Oftentimes, a high-quality roof coating can extend the life of your roof, improve energy efficiency, and save you a notable amount of money.
But what are roof coatings? When are they the right choice? What types are available, and how do you choose the right contractor? Here’s what you need to know.
A roof coating is a protective layer applied over an existing commercial roofing system. Think of it as an added shield, one that enhances durability, improves weather resistance, and gives your roof a second life without the cost of a full tear-off.
These coatings are often used on flat or low-slope roofs and are especially useful for buildings that are starting to show signs of wear but still have structurally sound decking and insulation. With the right application, a coating can extend your roof’s lifespan by 10-20 years, adding waterproofing, UV protection, and better energy performance—all while delaying costly replacements.
Not every roof needs a coating, but many can benefit from one. If you’re noticing these signs, it might be time to schedule an inspection:
If caught early, these issues can usually be addressed with a roof coating, saving you time, money, and a lot of hassle.
Roof coatings aren’t just a temporary fix. When properly applied, they deliver some serious long-term advantages, including:
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to roof coatings. The best choice depends on your roof’s material, condition, and the local climate.
Silicone is a go-to for high-moisture environments. It offers impressive UV protection and handles ponding water like a champ. On top of that, it’s highly flexible, allowing it to withstand expansion and contraction over time.
Acrylic is lightweight, reflective, and cost-effective. It’s great for lowering energy costs but is best used on roofs with proper drainage since it doesn’t hold up well against standing water.
Polyurethane is known for its impact resistance, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic roofs or areas prone to hail. There are two types used in these cases: aromatic (usually used as a base coat) and aliphatic (UV-stable top coat with enhanced durability).
Traditional and reliable asphalt-based coatings work well over built-up roofs (BUR) and gravel roofs. While not as reflective as silicone or acrylic, they’re tough and economical for older roofing systems.
The commercial roof coating process varies slightly based on the material you choose, but the core steps generally remain the same. Here’s how it typically goes:
Roof coatings are an excellent option, but they’re not always the right choice. Here’s how they compare to a full replacement:
Factor |
Roof Coating |
Roof Replacement |
|---|---|---|
|
Cost |
50-70% less |
Higher upfront |
|
Best For |
Minor wear |
Major damage or rot |
|
Disruption |
Less |
More |
|
Timeline |
2-5 days |
1-3 weeks |
|
Waste |
Low |
High (tear-off debris) |
|
Warranty |
Up to 20 years |
Up to 30 years |
Generally speaking, if your roof is still structurally sound but showing cosmetic or surface wear, a coating is likely your best bet.
Most coatings last 10-20 years, depending on the material, climate, and how well the roof is maintained. Routine inspections—ideally done twice a year—can catch small issues early and help extend the life of the coating.
And here’s the good news: Once a coating starts to wear down, you can often recoat the roof rather than starting from scratch again.
Roof coating projects are typically much more affordable than replacements, but several factors affect the final price, including:
On average, most commercial coatings cost between $2 and $5 per square foot. Of course, it all depends on the specifics of your roof, so it’s best to get a detailed estimate from a contractor who understands your roof.
Not every roof is a candidate for recoating, but many are. A roof can usually be recoated if it:
If your roof has seen better days and has severe damage or is compromised underneath, a full replacement may be necessary. A professional inspection will help you decide.
This is one place where experience truly matters. When evaluating contractors, look for:
The right contractor will walk you through options and provide honest guidance, not just sell you the most expensive product.
Commercial roof coatings offer a practical, cost-effective solution for extending the life of your roof without the cost or disruption of a full replacement. With multiple material options available, the flexibility to recoat in the future, and all sorts of benefits, it’s no surprise that more and more businesses are turning to coatings.
If you’re ready to see if your roof is a good candidate for commercial roof coatings or need a roof replacement, contact our team at Above & Beyond Roofing. We’ll help you protect your investment, reduce your costs, and keep your business covered—literally.SCHEDULE YOUR FREE ROOF INSPECTION TODAY!
If you need attention to your roof in any way, contact our experienced team at Above & Beyond Exteriors. We have years of experience in residential and commercial roofing including installation, repair, maintenance, and inspection.
Our team is standing by ready to take care of all of your needs today.
