Roof Coating

If this is your first time hearing this, roof coating is not a shortcut and it is not paint. When done correctly, a roof coating system can extend the life of an existing roof, improve energy performance, and delay full replacement for years. When done wrong, it can trap moisture, hide damage, and cost you more than tearing the roof off would have.

At Ernie’s Gutter, we have been working on Denver roofs since 1978. Over the decades, we have coated, repaired, stripped, and replaced just about every roof type you can find along the Front Range. Roof coatings can be a smart option in the right situation, but only when the roof is a good candidate and the coating system matches the structure and climate.

This guide explains what roof coating actually is, when it makes sense in Denver, when it does not, and how to avoid the common mistakes we see every year.

What Roof Coating Really Is

A roof coating is a fluid applied membrane that cures into a seamless protective layer over an existing roof. It is designed to protect the roof surface from ultraviolet exposure, thermal expansion, and water intrusion.

Roof coating does not fix structural problems. It does not replace rotten decking. It does not correct poor drainage. Any contractor telling you otherwise is selling hope instead of workmanship.

Common roof coating types used in Denver include:

• Silicone coatings
• Acrylic coatings
• Polyurethane coatings
• Asphalt based aluminum coatings

Each system behaves differently in sun, snow, hail, and freeze cycles. Choosing the wrong one is worse than doing nothing.

Why Roof Coating Matters in Denver

Denver is hard on roofs. High altitude sun, wide temperature swings, spring hail, heavy snow loads, and dry air all accelerate roof aging.

Roof coatings help by:

• Reflecting ultraviolet radiation
• Reducing surface temperature
• Limiting thermal expansion and contraction
• Sealing minor surface cracks
• Slowing material breakdown

Light colored reflective coatings can significantly reduce roof surface temperatures during summer months. This is not theory. We see it every year on flat and low slope commercial roofs.

That said, coating is never a band aid for neglect. If the roof is failing, coating it only delays the inevitable and usually makes the replacement messier.

Roof Types That Can Be Coated

Roof coating works best on low slope and flat roofing systems.

Common candidates include:

• Modified bitumen
• Built up roofing
• Single ply membranes
• Metal roofing
• Certain foam roof systems

Steep slope asphalt shingle roofs are not coating candidates in residential settings. If someone is offering to coat your shingle roof, shut the door.

When Roof Coating Is a Smart Choice

Roof coating makes sense when:

• The roof structure is sound
• The membrane is intact
• Leaks are minor and repairable
• Drainage is working correctly
• Replacement is not yet necessary

In many Denver commercial buildings, coating can extend roof life ten to fifteen years when applied correctly and maintained.

For residential properties, coating is usually limited to specialty roof systems, porch roofs, or flat roof sections.

When Roof Coating Is a Bad Idea

Roof coating is a bad idea when:

• The roof has trapped moisture
• The deck is soft or rotted
• The membrane is delaminating
• Fasteners are backing out
• Ponding water is unresolved

Coating over problems hides damage until it becomes catastrophic. We have torn off coated roofs that looked fine from the street but were destroyed underneath.

The Importance of Proper Surface Preparation

This is where most coating jobs fail.

Before coating, the roof must be:

• Cleaned thoroughly
• Dried completely
• Repaired where needed
• Properly primed

Skipping prep is like painting over rust. It might look good for a season, then it fails.

Denver’s dry climate helps curing, but spring and fall temperature swings require strict timing. Coating outside the proper temperature range leads to cracking and poor adhesion.

Energy Efficiency and Roof Coating

Reflective roof coatings can reduce cooling demand in summer. On large commercial buildings, this can noticeably reduce HVAC load.

Do not expect miracle energy savings on small residential roofs. The benefit exists, but it is not a magic trick. Anyone promising massive utility savings is overselling.

Maintenance After Roof Coating

A coated roof still requires maintenance.

That includes:

• Annual inspections
• Clearing drains and scuppers
• Touching up penetrations
• Monitoring seams and transitions

A neglected coated roof will fail just like any other roof.

Roof Coating vs Roof Replacement

Coating is a life extension, not a reset.

If the roof is near the end of its service life, replacement is usually the smarter long term investment. Coating is best used to buy time, not avoid reality.

A professional inspection should always come before the decision.

Why Experience Matters

Roof coating looks simple. It is not.

We have been fixing coating failures since coatings became popular. The problem is not the material. The problem is poor assessment, bad prep, and rushed application.

Experience matters because knowing when not to coat saves homeowners and building owners real money.

Serving Denver Since 1978

Ernie’s Gutter and Ernie’s Roofing have served Denver and the Front Range since 1978. We believe in doing work that lasts, even when that means telling a customer coating is not the right solution.

If you want an honest assessment, that is what we provide. No pressure. No shortcuts.

Roof Coating Denver FAQs

How long does a roof coating last
A properly applied coating can last ten to twenty years depending on material and maintenance.

Can roof coating stop leaks
It can seal minor surface leaks after proper repair but will not fix structural issues.

Is roof coating cheaper than replacement
Yes upfront, but only when the roof is a good candidate.

Can you coat over an existing coating
Sometimes, but compatibility and condition must be evaluated first.

Does roof coating work in snow climates
Yes when the correct system is used and drainage is adequate.

Is roof coating environmentally friendly
Many modern coatings reduce waste by delaying tear off.

Can residential homes use roof coating
Only in specific roof types like flat or low slope sections.

Do you need a professional inspection first
Absolutely. Coating without inspection is gambling.