Is Silicone Roof Coating Worth It?

Is silicone roof coating worth it? We say yes. Of course, exactly what you need depends on your roof type and specific commercial roofing situation. Silicone coatings are not the cheapest roof coatings out there, but they’re also not the most expensive. It’s best to compare the pros and cons of each option to determine the best type of coatings for your specific situation.  

Pros of Silicone Roof Coatings

- If you have a flat roof that tends to experience ponding water, for example, silicone is a favorable choice since it’s resistant to water damage. Discover more pros to silicone roofing and a few considerations you should keep in mind.

- First things first, silicone roof coatings are very durable. The formulation is not quick to break down or compromise when exposed to water, extreme weather events, harsh chemicals, foot traffic or constant UV rays. As a bonus, you’ll also experience reduced energy costs. The silicone acts as a seamless seal between your roof and the elements that surround it, keeping water out and reflecting UV rays to keep the building cool.

Cons of Silicone Roof Coatings

- Due to its formulation, silicone coatings are more difficult to apply and clean up than water-based coatings. Silicone isn’t the most aesthetic choice, either, since it attracts dirt and makes the roof surface appear dingy. As a result, it’s not a great choice for roofs that are on display for all to see.

Taking both the silicone roof coating pros and cons into consideration, silicone coatings are still one of the best types of coatings available. There are a number of factors that should be considered when determining the right coating for your commercial building — such as the types of roofing the building currently has. Deciding on what coating to use would be easier if there was a one-size-fits-all solution, but that’s simply not the case.

Even within the silicone family, there are two different options out there. The traditional type of silicone coating is solvent-based, while the newer type has a high solids content. Manufacturers took the downsides to solvent-based silicone and addressed them with this new type of silicone coating. Its higher solids content means the contractor can use less material to reach the correct dry film thickness for application. Solvent-based silicones also contain lower amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them a more eco-friendly solution.

TRUCO’s silicone products include a high-solid 9600 Sure Seal Silicone Coating and 9601 Sure Seal Seam Compound.

If it makes sense for your situation, is silicone roof coating worth it? Yes, you will not regret installing one of the best coating options on your roof. If your building has a flat roof, issues with ponding water and needs to be completely waterproof, silicone is the way to go. Silicone coatings are also beneficial in colder weather applications, and when UV stability, durability and longevity are of high importance. 

If the long-term aesthetics of the roof or an easier application process are necessary, consider going with another coating option. Acrylic, polyurethane or rubber coatings might be the right installation choice for you. Luckily, TRUCO has many roof coating options. Contact us for guidance on your roof coating journey or reach out to get a quote. We’re here to help.