Roof coatings are a powerful way to extend the life of a roof when the existing system is still structurally sound and is a good candidate for restoration. At Top View Roofing, we install roof coatings to help property owners improve waterproofing, enhance UV protection, reduce surface temperature, and delay the cost of full replacement. A properly applied coating can add years of service life, reduce maintenance issues, and provide an effective layer of protection against weather and sun exposure. The key is that coatings must be used correctly, on the right roof, with the right preparation, and at the right thickness.
A roof coating is not simply paint. Coatings are engineered materials designed to create a protective membrane over an existing roof surface. They can help seal small cracks, protect against UV degradation, and improve reflectivity, especially on low slope roofs. Coatings are commonly used on commercial and industrial roofs where the roof area is large and restoration can be cost effective. They can also be used on certain residential applications depending on roof type and goals.
The first step in a successful coating project is determining candidacy. Not all roofs should be coated. A roof with widespread moisture infiltration, saturated insulation, failing substrate, severe structural issues, or extensive membrane damage may require replacement instead. Coatings work best when the existing roof has remaining life and can be restored with proper repairs and preparation. Top View Roofing evaluates the roof condition, identifies leak sources, checks drainage and ponding areas, and determines whether a coating system will provide real value.
Preparation is the most important part of any coating system. A coating will only adhere and perform as well as the surface beneath it. That means the roof must be cleaned properly, typically through pressure washing and removal of contaminants, and any wet areas must be addressed. Seams, penetrations, flashings, and defects must be repaired and reinforced. On many roofs, coating systems include seam reinforcement, fabric embedment at transitions, and extra build up at details where movement occurs. If these steps are skipped or rushed, coatings can peel, crack, or fail early.
Coatings can provide multiple benefits. Waterproofing is the most obvious. By creating a continuous protective layer, coatings can reduce the likelihood of leaks, especially when combined with proper detail reinforcement. UV protection is another major benefit. Many roofing materials degrade under UV exposure, and coatings provide a shield that slows deterioration. Reflectivity can also be a benefit. Reflective coatings can reduce roof surface temperatures and potentially reduce cooling loads, especially during hot Oklahoma summers. This can improve interior comfort and help reduce HVAC strain.
Coatings also provide a practical maintenance path. Many coating systems can be renewed over time. Rather than tearing off and replacing the entire roof, some buildings can maintain performance through periodic recoating, provided the underlying roof remains sound. This can reduce landfill waste and can lower lifecycle cost. For building owners who want predictable budgeting and less disruption, coatings can be an attractive strategy.
Top View Roofing installs coating systems with a focus on durability and correct application. We follow manufacturer guidelines, apply coatings at proper thickness, and pay special attention to details like penetrations, drains, parapets, and edges. We also address drainage issues where possible, because ponding water can shorten coating life and create premature wear. We help you understand what coatings can and cannot do. A coating is not a cure for major structural issues, and it is not a substitute for replacement when a roof has reached end of life. But on the right roof, coatings can provide a strong return by extending service life and improving performance.
If you are considering roof restoration, Top View Roofing can evaluate your roof and determine whether a coating system is the right fit. We will explain candidacy, repair requirements, and expected performance so you can make a confident decision. With the right preparation and installation, roof coatings can be a smart way to protect your building and delay full replacement while maintaining reliable waterproofing.
