Roof coatings have been an effective solution for roofing contractors for more than 50 years, but technological advances and improved accessibility have accelerated growth in the past decade.

Recent projections from Future Market Insights show the overall roofing material market growing by about 4.6% over the next decade to surpass $231 billion. Coatings are expected to play a significant role in that growth.

Construction projects in the U.S. and Canada are increasing, and as federal and local governments emphasize industrial, energy and affordable housing infrastructure, construction rates should rise. Experts predict an average annual growth rate of 3.5% for construction in North America from 2025-28.

As the rest of the world adopts more stringent building codes modeled after the U.S., the demand for cost-effective, energy-efficient roofing solutions will also increase. Roof coatings, known for extending roof life when complete tear-offs aren't immediately necessary, will play a key role.

Coatings that reflect harmful UV rays are increasing energy efficiency and lowering electricity bills, particularly in sun-soaked regions of North America. They also help the environment by delaying or preventing rooftop waste from reaching landfills. The Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association estimates that 2.5 billion square feet of roofs are replaced or re-coated annually, with roofing materials being the third-largest contributor to landfills. Coatings provide a cost-effective solution, and more roofing contractors are responding to the demand from business owners.

Roofer Response

Roofers responding to Roofing Contractor's annual State of the Industry survey indicated that the coatings sales market remains strong. More than half (53%) are involved with coatings, estimating that the service accounts for roughly 6% of annual revenue. Although down from last year’s 66% involvement and 8% of revenue, coatings still rank among the top five most popular product categories, behind single-ply, asphalt shingles and metal.

About 45% of contractors reported increased coatings sales in 2023, with 52% expecting further increases in 2024. Commercial sales saw a more robust increase, estimated at 54%, with projections to exceed 60% by the year’s end. Commercial roofers also reported installing more polymer-synthetic roofs (41%) than in previous years in response to customer demand.

When Coatings Count

Entering the roof coatings market is relatively easy for contractors, but it has its challenges. Training, equipment, and worker buy-in are essential. Patience and vision are also necessary to endure the usual growing pains of adding a new service offering to the business model. Application methods are becoming safer and more efficient, but contractors must address the following factors to succeed in roof coatings:

• Clear the substrate and surface of dust, dirt and debris to prevent blistering.
• Coatings cannot fix structural vulnerabilities. Contractors must evaluate the membrane, substrate and system components to repair tears or peels before starting.
• Ensure the surface, insulation, and roof deck are completely dry for the coating to work effectively.

Without meeting these criteria, coatings may lose effectiveness earlier than expected. Regardless of installation type or project scope, contractors should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and specifications, even when recoating an existing roof coat. Collaborating with product partners ensures the right system is in place for the right job, delivering optimal results.

Read the original article published by Roofing Contractor here.