Roof Coating vs. Roof Replacement: Which Is the Best Option?

Roof coating and roof replacement are fantastic solutions for restoring commercial roofs, but choosing the right option can be difficult. While roof coating is a reliable solution for roofs in fair condition, a roof replacement is the best option if your roof leaks or contains damaged components. Scheduling a professional evaluation is essential because a professional has the knowledge and experience to determine the ideal solution for your facility.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Roof Coating vs. Replacement

If you’re wondering whether roof replacements and roof coatings are worth it, remember that the option you choose and the outcome depend on certain factors. You must consider the following aspects before choosing between a roof replacement and coating:

  • Project budget
  • Rising energy costs
  • Your roofing contractor
  • History of previous damage
  • Your roof’s age and condition
  • Pros and cons of roof coating
  • Pros and cons of roof replacement
  • Each roofing system’s performance
  • Your building’s current state and whether it has been unoccupied for an extended period

Roof Coating: Pros and Cons

Commercial roof coating is an excellent solution if you want to update your roof and extend its life span without fully replacing it. Many companies offer commercial roof sealing as an easy, reliable way to restore commercial roofs and protect buildings from leaks.

What Is Roof Coating?

A roof restoration coating is a durable membrane that adheres to your roof’s surface. This watertight, protective membrane refreshes your roof’s performance and prevents leaks, reducing the need for excessive repairs and maintenance.

Pros of Roof Coating

Roof coating offers the following advantages:

  • Easy, quick installation
  • Lower cost than roof replacement
  • Eco-friendly, energy-efficient roofing material
  • Safe and effective on simple and complex roof designs
  • Opportunity to continue using your current roof and avoid generating waste

Roof coating resists leaks and provides an aesthetically pleasing look, protecting your building’s interior from outdoor elements while improving its appearance. It also reflects ultraviolet (UV) rays, helping your building maintain comfortable temperatures at lower costs. Roof sealing enables you to make the most of your existing roof if it’s in good or fair condition, helping you improve your facility and save money.

When to Choose Roof Replacement Instead

Roof replacement may be a better option than roof coating if your roof or building requires structural repair. While roof coating is an excellent restorative option, it cannot address structural concerns such as leaks, cracks and missing components.

Roof coating vs roof replacement

Roof Replacement: Pros and Cons

You may need to replace your commercial roof if it’s old or leaking. Learn more about roof replacement to determine if it’s the best option for your facility:

What Does a Roof Replacement Entail?

A roof replacement consists of a thorough inspection, old roof material removal, surface preparation and new roof material installation. In some cases, professionals also adjust vents and other installations to fit your new roof.

Pros of Roof Replacement

A roof replacement offers the following advantages:

  • Significant repair: A roof replacement is the best option if you need to restore a roof that has cracks, missing components, leaks or a faded appearance. It’s also an excellent option if your facility has had its current roof for 20 years or more.
  • Strength: A new roof strengthens your building, increasing safety and peace of mind.
  • Longevity: Replacing your facility’s roof can extend its life span, enabling you to get more years out of your building and prevent or decrease future repair costs.
  • Opportunity to use energy-efficient materials: Roofing professionals can replace your roof using energy-efficient, eco-friendly materials such as metal, slate and rubber.
  • Increased R-value: Replacing your roof is a fantastic option if you want to increase your roof’s insulating capabilities. Your roof’s R-value indicates its capacity to resist heat flow and maintain desired indoor temperatures, and a new roof system can significantly increase your building’s insulation. Choose a roof replacement if reducing your cooling and heating costs is a top priority.

When to Choose a Roof Coating Instead

You should consider a roof coating instead of a replacement if the following factors apply:

  • When replacement is unnecessary: If a new coating can address your roof’s needs, a roof coating can prevent waste generation. Any time you remove materials and replace them with new ones, the old materials add to landfills. While generating waste is necessary when your roof requires a replacement, you should opt for a coating if possible. A roofing expert can help you determine if your roof requires a replacement or coating.
  • If you want to restore your roof with minimal disruptions: A roof coating is less disruptive than a roof replacement. The roof removal process may expose sections of your building, requiring you to relocate or pause operations until the new roof is installed. Additionally, roofing professionals may need to adjust HVAC or mechanical installations during a roof replacement. These adjustments are worth it if you require a new roof, but opting for a coating can help you save time if your roof doesn’t require a replacement.

The Importance of Seeking Professional Evaluation

A professional evaluation is crucial when deciding between a roof coating and replacement. A professional has the tools, experience and skills to identify potential complications such as damage and leaks. Scheduling a professional inspection ensures you catch any repair needs before restoring your roof, and it’s an essential part of the decision-making process. 

A professional roofing company carefully evaluates a roof’s condition and recommends the best course of action moving forward. They can determine if your roof requires a replacement or if a coating can meet your needs based on the following factors:

  • Budget
  • Energy efficiency
  • Roof safety and longevity

When selecting a roofing company, seek a reputable option. The company you choose should provide you with accurate estimates and explain the pros and cons of each option for your roof.

Contact the experts at David Maines for your roofing coating or roof replacement needs

Contact the Experts at David Maines for Your Roof Coating or Roofing Replacement Needs

Roof coating and replacement are excellent restoration options, but determining the right choice for your building depends on various factors. David Maines and Associates offers expert roof restoration and replacement services to renew or extend your commercial roof’s life span. We carefully inspect each commercial roof to recommend the best options, and we tailor our services to your unique needs. 

When you trust the experts at David Maines for your roofing needs, you can expect prompt service, high-quality materials and long-lasting results. Whether you require a commercial flat roof replacement or a restorative coating, we can ensure your roof protects your building and lasts for years. Contact us to learn more and schedule a professional evaluation.


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