Though it may seem that roof coatings are a “newer” innovation to the commercial roofing market, they have surprisingly been around for quite a long time.

The earliest known use dates all the way back to ancient Egypt where a mixture of beeswax and clay was used to waterproof roofs (or pyramids, who knows?!) Even the Roman Empire utilized paints sand varnishes as an extra barrier of protection against elements.

Several centuries later a German chemist (Johann Joachim Becher) found a way to use coal tar as a protective coating for wood and ropes which led way to the development of asphalt roof coatings. Interestingly, this is still widely used today.

Fast forward to the 20th century and new materials are emerging in the roof coating market including acrylics, silicones, and polyurethanes. Each of these materials provides a unique property into roof coatings and makes it highly advantageous over traditional asphalt coatings. (We’ll cover those functions in a later blog post)

As we know it today, roof coatings is a commonly accepted alternative to roof replacements and several commercial roofs contractors and industrial roof contractors offer it among their roofing services.

Here is a recap of the general history of roof coatings:

• 3000 BC: Egyptians used beeswax and clay to waterproof roofs.
• 1st century BC: Romans used paints and varnishes to protect roofs.
• 17th century: German chemist found a way to use coal tar as a protective coating for wood and ropes.
• 19th century: Asphalt roof coatings were developed.
• 20th century: New roof coating materials were developed, including acrylics, silicones, and polyurethanes.
• 21st century: Roof coatings continue to evolve, with new materials and technologies being developed to improve their performance.

While there are still innovations yet to be made, roof coatings have come a long way since their early beginnings. We believe that more improvements are yet to come that will increase durability and lifespan of roof coatings.

Interested in seeing if your roof is a candidate for coatings? Give us a call at 402-289-7869 to schedule your free inspection!