Roof Coatings: Do They Really Work? A Comprehensive Review

Saad Ingraham
Mar 25
5 min read

Updated: May 30

At St. George Roof Coatings, we’re committed to providing effective, long-lasting solutions for homeowners and business owners across Southern Utah, helping you protect your property with top-quality roofing materials. A common question we hear is: Do roof coatings actually work? It’s a valid concern—your roof, whether on a residential home or commercial building, serves as your first line of defense against the relentless desert sun, occasional storms, and harsh weather conditions in St. George. Partnering with trusted St. George roofers for repairs, we apply premium coatings to extend your roof’s life, avoiding full replacement and saving you time and money. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the effectiveness of roof coatings for commercial buildings and homes, exploring how they extend roof life, reviewing real-world feedback from Southern Utah property owners, and equipping you with the facts to decide if coatings are the right choice to avoid full roof replacement for your property.

What Are Roof Coatings?

Roof coatings are liquid-applied membranes that, once cured, form a durable, protective layer over your existing roof. Made from materials like silicone, acrylic, polyurethane, or asphalt-based compounds, they’re designed to seal leaks, reflect sunlight, and shield against environmental wear. But does roof coating work as promised? Let’s look at the evidence.

Do Roof Coatings Work? The Evidence Says Yes—With Caveats

The short answer: Yes, roof coatings can work exceptionally well when applied correctly and under the right conditions. The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) notes that coatings can extend the life of structurally sound low-slope roofs by creating a seamless, watertight barrier. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that reflective coatings can significantly lower rooftop temperatures, reducing cooling costs in St. George’s hot summers.

Silicone coatings, a top choice at St George Roof Coatings, stand out for their durability and resistance to ponding water, per the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance. This is critical for flat roofs that might collect runoff during rare Utah downpours. The Cool Roof Rating Council notes that reflective coatings can reduce energy costs, with savings varying by property and climate. Many St. George clients report noticeable reductions in cooling bills.

That said, there’s a caveat: coatings aren’t a magic fix. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) stresses that they work best on roofs in decent condition. If your roof has major structural damage, a coating won’t replace the need for repairs—it enhances, rather than rebuilds.

Types of Roof Coatings: Which Is Right for You?

Not all coatings are created equal. Here’s a breakdown of the main types we offer at St George Roof Coatings:

Silicone Coatings: Known for UV resistance and water repellency, these are ideal for flat roofs prone to ponding. They can last up to 20 years with proper care, per industry insights from GAF.
Acrylic Coatings: Water-based and highly reflective, acrylics excel in hot climates, reducing cooling costs by 10-20%, according to West Roofing Systems.
Polyurethane Coatings: Tough and chemical-resistant, these suit roofs with heavy foot traffic, extending life by 5-10 years in demanding settings.
Asphalt-Based Coatings: Affordable and weather-resistant, they can add up to 15 years to an aging roof’s life, per ARMA.

Advantages of Roof Coatings

So, is roof coating any good? Here’s what makes them a smart choice:

Extended Roof Life: Coatings can delay replacement by 10-15 years, per the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance.
Energy Efficiency: Reflective layers reduce heat absorption, cutting cooling costs by 10-20%, as noted by the Cool Roof Rating Council.
Seamless Protection: A uniform barrier eliminates leak-prone seams, crucial for flat roofs in St George.
Cost-Effective: At $2-$7 per square foot (West Roofing Systems), coatings are far cheaper than a $10+ per square foot roof replacement.

Disadvantages to Consider

No solution is perfect. Here are the trade-offs:

Prep Work: Roofs must be clean and sound for coatings to adhere, per GAF guidelines, adding to upfront effort.
Not Universal: Severely damaged roofs or traditional shingles aren’t ideal candidates, per NRCA and ARMA.
Maintenance: Coatings may need reapplication every 10-15 years and occasional cleaning to maintain reflectivity.

Roof Coatings Reviews: Real-World Success Stories

What do users say? Roof coatings reviews from Southern Utah and beyond are largely positive:

Residential Win: A St George homeowner with a leaky flat roof applied our silicone coating. Result? No more leaks and a 15% drop in summer energy bills.
Commercial Success: A local business tackled ponding issues with an acrylic coating, extending their roof’s life by an estimated 7-10 years, per their feedback.

Industry voices agree. American WeatherStar notes that while silicone coatings may attract dirt over time, their waterproofing is unmatched. GAF reports building owners seeing energy savings after reflective coatings, a trend we’ve witnessed firsthand in St George.

Does Roof Coating Work for Your Roof?

Coatings shine on low-slope roofs—think metal, modified bitumen, or single-ply membranes—common in St George’s commercial and modern residential builds. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency praises “cool roof” coatings in hot climates like ours, where UV protection is key. However, ARMA advises against coating asphalt shingles, as it can trap moisture and harm performance.

How to Choose the Right Roof Coating in St George UT

Assess Your Roof: Ensure it’s structurally sound with a professional inspection.
Consider Climate: In St George’s heat, reflective acrylics or durable silicones are top picks.
Consult Experts: Our team at St George Roof Coatings tailors solutions to your needs.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

To keep your roof coating effective, follow these maintenance tips:

Inspect Regularly: Catch wear early to preserve the coating.
Clean Debris: Prevent moisture buildup that could degrade the layer.
Act Fast: Address minor damage promptly to avoid bigger issues.

Why St George Roof Coatings?

We know Southern Utah’s climate—intense sun, UV exposure, and sporadic rain. Our silicone and acrylic coatings are chosen to thrive here, applied with precision after thorough prep and roof repair if needed. With a free quote, consultations and solid warranties. We’re here to protect your investment.

Final Verdict: Are Roof Coatings Worth It?

Roof coatings are a proven, cost-effective solution for extending the life of your roof, improving energy efficiency, and preventing leaks. According to trusted sources like the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA), the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), and the U.S. Department of Energy, roof coatings deliver long-lasting protection when applied by a professional roofing company using only the best materials. For properties in St. George, Utah, and throughout Washington County, roof coatings offer an excellent alternative to costly replacement services or installing a brand new roof.

Not every roof is a candidate for coatings, but those with issues like water damage, minor leaks, or excessive heat absorption can benefit significantly. A high-quality coating strengthens the roof deck, enhances durability in hot weather, and reduces maintenance costs over time. With regular maintenance, a long-lasting roof coated with premium materials can protect your property for years at a fraction of the cost of a full replacement.

At St. George Roof Coatings, our expert team specializes in guiding homeowners and businesses through their roofing options. We stay current with the latest industry advancements and use only the best materials to ensure superior results. Whether you need to repair unique challenges, explore replacement services, or determine if a coating suits your property, we provide honest, tailored advice to meet your needs.

Ready to protect your roof and save on energy costs? Contact St. George Roof Coatings today for a free estimate. Let us help you achieve a long-lasting roof that thrives in Washington County’s hot weather.