How Much Does Roof Coating Cost in 2024?

Installation of a brand-new roof every 12-20 years can eat up your cash buffer. But what if you can extend the service life of your current housetop for 10+ years without breaking a sweat? Roof sealing allows for creating a firm layer of protection from adverse weather conditions like heavy rainfall and heat waves. You can also mend cracks and holes that can result in leaks and, hence, costly damage. And you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the roof coating price as it’s more than affordable.

If you own a one-story house with a housetop of 16 squares, you can expect to pay as little as $300 for roof sealing. However, this price can be 20 times as high if there are many problems that need to be solved. But most homeowners still spend between $450 and $2,400. 

The cost of roof coating

National average cost	$1,365
Low-end cost	$300
High-end cost	$2,000
Average price range	$450 - $2,400

The Average Roof Coating Cost per Square Foot

As flat and low-sloped roofs are especially prone to leaks, the coating makes for a great preventive step. You can create a single layer of protection or cover your housetop a few times for the finest result. 

The market is full of different sealant types for any budget – prices vary from $0.30 to $3.75 per square foot. But you should pay attention that your expenses may be higher because of your roof material, access, the scope of groundwork required, and labor costs in your area. All these factors can drive up the roof sealing cost per square foot, making it fall between $1 and $5 on average. 

The cost of a roof coating system per square foot

Roof square footage	Average costs with the installation
100	$100 - $500
1,000	$1.000 - $5.000
1,500	$1.500 - $7.500
2,000	$2.000 - $10.000
2,500	$2.500 - $12.500
3,000	$3.000 - $15.000

The Labor Cost for Roof Coating 

The labor cost for roof coating ranges from $0.70 to $3.5 per sq. ft. The overall expense depends on your location, the height and size of the roof, as well as its accessibility. Plus, the condition of your roof, the amount of prep work required, and the application method chosen for the coating add to the final estimate. 

You can expect to pay a minimum service fee for a professional roof coating in the range of $150 - $300. Smaller roof coating works can be tackled either on your own or by employing a local handyman. For the latter, the hourly rate is typically around $65.

Factors Affecting the Average Roof Coating Labor Cost

Understanding the financial aspects of roof coating can seem daunting, but when equipped with knowledge of the variables that extend beyond just the roof's surface area - from location influences to the condition of your roof and the type of work involved, you'll be able to manage your budget effectively. Learn how to predict your expenses with higher accuracy, factoring in location, roof characteristics, preparation activities, application methods, and the potential need for supplementary services. 

Here are the key aspects to consider when calculating the labor cost required for roof coating: 

• Location and local labor rates. Homeowners may pay twice as much in California for the same scope of work than those in New Hampshire. It's better to contact a few contractors to find out the most affordable labor rates in your area.
• Size, height, and pitch of the roof. The flat roof coating cost is pocket-friendly as the slope angle doesn't cause any problems for contractors. But one can't say the same about the steep pitch. 
• Roof accessibility. Housetop elements like hips and valleys boost your house's visual aesthetics but make it tough for roofers to climb. The project's intricacy level can be reflected in the final price. 
• The nature and amount of prep work. If you decide to coat your freshly installed roof, prep work may not be required. But a 10-year-old housetop may have signs of wear and tear (cracks and moss) that must be fixed first.
• Application method. Depending on the sealant type you go for, brush, roller, or spray equipment can be used for coating. The spray roof coating cost is the lowest as it's less time-consuming, but this application method offers worse consistency than rollers. 
• Additional services like inspection, cleaning, and leak repair. An expert checkup can help determine the scope of work and the possible roof coating labor cost. You can also benefit from professional cleaning as it improves the adhesion of sealants. 

To take the guesswork out of the estimation process, fill in the form below instead of using unreliable roof coating cost calculators. At HomeQuote, we work with the best roofing contractors nationwide and can help you get precise information about your project in a timely fashion. 

Roof Coating Cost by Sealant Type

Can’t decide what sealant material will become the best fit for your roofing project? There are 6 main types to consider. They offer different levels of protection and guaranteed lifespan. Let’s discuss them in more detail.

Can’t decide what sealant material will become the best fit for your roofing project? There are 6 main types to consider. They offer different levels of protection and guaranteed lifespan. Let’s discuss them in more detail.

Silicone

If keeping temperatures low indoors is your primary purpose, silicone is the right material to select. It can reflect about 91% of UV rays reaching your building, meaning that your A/C system can get some rest. You can also take advantage of its weather-resistant features, keeping leaks at bay. The silicone roof coating price can land between $1,65 and $5,50 per square foot. 

Polyurethane

Do you use your flat roof as a terrace for chilling out with friends? Then, the polyurethane roof coating is what you need. It is ideal for high-traffic areas and can remain intact after high impact. The polyurethane roof coating cost can be anywhere between $1,25 and $4,50 per sq. ft. installed.

Acrylic/ elastomeric

If you are about to sell your house, you may go for a low-end option like acrylic. It comes in dozens of hues, meaning you can upgrade your housetop look on a budget. The acrylic roof coating cost starts at $0,55 and can reach up to $3,50 per sq. ft. installed. But it won’t work out for cold US states as it requires above 50°F to thicken. 

Liquid rubber

Blended with EPDM and elastomeric compounds, liquid rubber material creates a seamless roofing system. One layer is often enough to get a pitch-perfect surface for the next 15+ years. And its excellent UV-resistant qualities make it an ultimate choice for the hottest US states. The liquid rubber silver coating roof cost can be from $1,65 to $3,00 per square foot. 

Bitumen

Roof decorative elements like chimneys and skylights are considered ‘weak spots,’ requiring additional sealing. And bitumen, an asphalt-based sealant, makes for the ideal option. You can protect big and small areas of your housetop without breaking the bank. The bitumen roof seal cost can be between $1,50 and $2,50 per square foot installed.

EPDM sheets

If installed properly, EPDM sheets can ensure the protection of a low-sloped roof. However, they aren’t suitable for a DIY roofing project as you need extensive experience to do the job appropriately. The cost of EPDM sheets starts at $3,75 to $10,70 per square foot. 

The cost of roof coating by sealant type

Sealant types	Average costs per square foot installed
Silicone	$1.65 - $5.50
Polyurethane	$1.25 - $4.50
Acrylic/ elastomeric	$0.55 - $3.50
Liquid rubber	$1.65 - $3.00
EPDM sheets	$3.75 - $10.70
Bitumen	$1.50 - $2.50

Roof Coating Price by Material Type

Many contractors only work with a specific type of material like metal, wood, or asphalt. That’s why your current housetop can help you get a better understanding of possible expenses. How much does a roof coating cost based on the material type? 

Metal

Metal is used for low-sloped and flat roofs and can be coated with any type of sealant. Your roof’s pitch will determine how thick the layers will be. In some cases, contractors may have to coat your housetop a few times to achieve the desired result. The metal roof coating cost can fall between $1.50 and $3.50 per square foot (installation included). 

Asphalt

Whether for fixing damaged asphalt shingles or patching up small leaks around chimneys and skylights, bitumen is just the ticket. You’ll spend between $1 to $2.20 per square foot. The only possible alternative is to replace broken shingles, forking up about $300. 

The cost of roof coating by material type

Material type	Average costs per sq. ft. installed
Asphalt	$1 - $2.20
Metal	$1.50 - $3.50

The Cost of Coating by Roof Type

As your housetop type affects the time and effort that need to be invested into the project, you can estimate potential expenses based on it. What does your roof look like?

Flat Roofs

Even though low-sloped housetops are considered the easiest to work on, it doesn’t mean that labor costs will be extremely low. Thus, a flat roof coating project can set you back about $1,650 ($1 - $3.50 per sq. ft). The price will depend on the material and the scope of work required. 

Sloped Roofs

If your roof is covered with tiles or shingles, you don’t need to coat them from corner to corner. But you can seal holes and cracks around weak spots like skylights. A steep housetop requires additional safety measures so that contractors may charge twice as much compared to a flat one. You can expect to pay about $4 – $8 per square foot.

Mobile Home Roofs

Liquid rubber and acrylic blends are proven to be the best options for mobile home roofs. Contractors can charge from $0.70 to $5 per square foot installed, depending on the surface area and sealant type.  

The roof sealing cost per square foot by roof type

Roof type	Average costs (installation included)
Flat	$1 - $3.50
Sloped	$4 - $8
Mobile home	$0.70 - $5

Additional Factors to Consider Estimating the Roof Coating Cost

When estimating the cost of a roof coating job, there are additional expenses to consider beyond the material and labor. Additional costs may include repairing or replacing damaged roof sections before applying a coat. Plus, you should account for any required inspections or cleaning services as well as permit fees.

Here are the additional spendings you should add to your roof coating cost calculator:

• Roof Inspection

If you experience moisture issues, it does make sense to conduct a roof inspection to isolate the cause of these problems. This way, you will address the immediate concerns and unveil hidden issues that could eventually disrupt the effectiveness of the roof sealant. You should expect to spend from $130 to $350 on professional inspection, depending on the location of your home and the accessibility of your roof. 

• Roof Leakage Repair

Having a leak in your roof can pave the way for significant damage if not addressed promptly, especially before a roof coating treatment. Hidden leaks may disrupt the sealant's performance, potentially leading to further costly repairs down the line. The cost of roof leakage repair generally ranges from $300 to $1,000, depending on the extent of the leak and your location. 

• Securing Roofing Permits

Depending on your local laws, you may need to secure permits before proceeding with a roof coating project. This ensures that all the work complies with current building codes and regulations. Additionally, a permit may be necessary if your property is in a historical area or needs to meet certain architectural standards. The cost of a building permit varies greatly by location and the scope of the work, but generally, you can expect to spend between $100 and $500.

• Roof Cleaning

Before proceeding with the actual coating, you have to ensure your roof is clean. Otherwise, a sealant won't effectively stick to a dirty surface. This requirement implies an additional cost averaging from $300 to $625, depending on the roof size and the extent of cleaning required. Power washing, which costs about $0.20–$0.60 per square foot, is a common method employed. However, If you're familiar with the safety measures needed for roof work, you could cut down labor costs by renting a power washer and handling the task yourself.

Calculating the Required Amount of Roof Coating

Whether you're about to coat your roof by yourself or want to estimate the material costs of your project, it's essential to know how many gallons of coating you'll require. The key variabilities you have to consider are the square footage of your roof and the coverage rate of the coating product. Typically, one gallon of roof coating covers 50 to 100 square feet per layer. Be sure to account for multiple layers if the product requires more than one coat. Plus, you have to consider the application method and the material of your roof. 

Here is how much material you need to coat your roof

Roof Size	The Number of Gallons (1 coat)
500	5-10
1,000	10-20
2,000	20-40
2,500	40-60

What Are the Advantages and Drawbacks of a Roof Coating?

Roof coating can be a valuable ally in maintaining the longevity and efficiency of roofing systems, especially flat and low-pitched ones. It offers protection against sun, water, and hail damage, maximizing your roofing investment. However, like any solution, roof coating has pros and cons, which we will briefly explore below.

Benefits and Reasons for Applying Roof Coating

While roof coating may not be the right solution for all scenarios, it has a significant role in the roofing industry. Let's take a closer look at why and when you should consider opting for a roof coating:

• Investment Protection

Roof coatings, particularly on steep slope metal roofs, serve to extend the lifespan of the underlying material. This protective layer shifts future repair focus on the coating itself, reducing the need for costly metal replacements and maintenance. Due to their financial savings, roof coatings are a popular choice amongst residential and commercial building owners. 

• Resistance to the Elements

Another advantage of a roof coating lies in its innate resistance to weather elements, offering a protective shield against corrosion and weathering. The coating creates an additional layer that minimizes the impact of hail and deters rainwater from degrading the integrity of the roof material. Additionally, roof coatings form a hostile environment for moisture and moss growth. 

• Energy Conservation

Roof coatings present a viable option to elevate energy efficiency, particularly in warmer climates. Applying a cool roof coating on built-up roofs or other black surfaces helps reflect sunlight and heat, keeping interior temperatures significantly lower. Consequently, it reduces reliance on air conditioning, lowering energy consumption and ultimately contributing to cost savings.  

• Enhanced Reflectivity

Roof coatings are used to boost the reflectivity of a roofing system, repelling harmful UV rays from the sun. This functionality ensures a building remains cooler throughout the summer, contributing to lower energy consumption and bills. Moreover, increased reflectivity reduces sun damage to your roof, extending its lifespan. 

• Best for Temporary Fixes

In situations of constrained budget or temporary repair, a roof coating can be an immediate fix. It provides a cost-effective means to patch a failing membrane and prevent leakages until comprehensive repairs can be undertaken. For instance, the total roof coating price for a 2,000 sq. ft roof is around $1,300, while a moisture damage repair can go up to $2,000. 

Disadvantages and Reasons to Abandon Roof Coating

While roof coating brings numerous benefits, it's equally crucial to weigh in some possible drawbacks. Let's explore the factors and reasons that might make you reconsider using roof coating for your property.

• Water Vulnerability

While a roof coating protects from water penetration, it often struggles with managing ponding water, a common issue in flat roofs. Materials like acrylic coatings are particularly vulnerable and can deteriorate when exposed to constant standing water, eventually causing them to fail and allowing mold or mildew to grow. The coating might even peel off in large sheets, significantly reducing its protective capability.

• Risk of Wrong Application 

Proper application of a roof coating requires thorough preparation. If the underlying substrate is not prepared before the coating application, it could jeopardize the entire process and your investment. Any lapses in preparation or contractor mistakes could easily lead to a quick failure of the coating, defeating its purpose of adding protection to your roof. 

• Accumulation of Dirt 

Some roofing materials, especially silicone, tend to attract and hold dirt. Over time, accumulated grime mars your roof's aesthetic and affects its reflective capabilities. Moreover, the adhesion of dirt and debris could contribute to the degradation of your roofing material, affecting its longevity and performance. 

• Unnecessary Expenditure

The roof coating cost is high, and it may be an unnecessary expense, especially if sufficient insulation is already installed. In fact, insulation mitigates the need for any thermal coating to aid in cooling a roof, even in hot climates.

DIY vs. Professional Roof Coating

Depending on the sealant type, you may need a wide range of expensive equipment to complete your coating roof project like a pro. Tank spreaders, thermal cameras, control flow roller frames, and core cutting tools are only a few things you may not do without. Unless you don’t intend to become a roofer, you will hardly return the invested funds.

On top of that, working on roofs takes 4th place on the list of the most dangerous jobs in the USA. You can sustain serious injuries, resulting in expensive medical bills and treatment at best. Thus, it’s better to entrust your roofing needs to specialists who have everything it takes to ensure successful project completion. 

With MyHomeQuote, you can get hold of the most experienced roofers in your area. We cover all big and small cities nationwide, helping homeowners find the best matching roofing contractors.