Top Roof Coating Types for Commercial Properties by Waukegan Pro Roofers (IL)

If you manage or own a commercial property in Waukegan, you know how critical your roof is to the long-term health of your building. With the unpredictable Illinois weather — from freezing lake-effect snow in winter to sweltering summers — commercial roofs take a beating year-round. One of the smartest investments you can make to extend the life of your roof is applying a protective coating. Top Roof Coating Types for Commercial Properties by Waukegan Pro Roofers (IL)

At Waukegan Pro Roofers (IL), we specialize in helping local businesses protect their investments with the right roofing solutions. In this article, we’re divin

g into the top roof coating types for commercial properties and how to choose the right one for your building.

Top Roof Coating Types for Commercial Properties by Waukegan Pro Roofers (IL)

Whether you own a warehouse near Green Bay Road or operate a strip mall off Grand Avenue, the right coating can significantly improve your roof’s performance. Here are the most effective roof coatings we recommend for commercial buildings in Lake County.

1. Silicone Roof Coatings

Best for: Flat or low-slope roofs exposed to frequent rain or ponding water.

Silicone coatings offer excellent water resistance and UV protection. They don’t chalk or degrade under sun exposure, making them ideal for commercial properties in Waukegan where summer sun can be harsh. They’re also flexible, which helps them expand and contract with the changing temperatures typical in the Midwest.

Pro tip from Waukegan Pro Roofers (IL): We often recommend silicone for buildings near the lakefront, where moisture and humidity are higher.

2. Acrylic Roof Coatings

Best for: Budget-conscious property owners looking for general protection.

Acrylic coatings are water-based, making them environmentally friendly and easy to apply. They’re great at reflecting UV rays, which helps reduce energy costs — a bonus during those muggy Illinois summers. However, they’re not ideal for roofs with frequent standing water.

Ideal for: Office buildings, schools, or light industrial properties with minimal roof pooling.

3. Polyurethane Roof Coatings

Best for: High-traffic rooftops or properties exposed to heavy impact.

If your commercial roof sees frequent foot traffic — like HVAC maintenance or inspections — polyurethane is a durable, impact-resistant option. It offers strong adhesion and can handle Waukegan’s freeze-thaw cycles without cracking.

Local insight: We’ve applied this coating to several distribution centers in North Chicago and Waukegan industrial zones with great long-term results.

4. Asphalt-Based Roof Coatings

Best for: Older flat roofs and restoration projects.

Asphalt emulsion coatings are made from asphalt particles and clay, making them a solid choice for aging roofs in need of reinforcement. They’re UV resistant and provide decent waterproofing.

While not as modern as silicone or acrylic, asphalt coatings are still used in commercial roofing restorations across the region, particularly for buildings with built-up roofing (BUR) systems.

How Roof Coatings Help Commercial Properties in Waukegan

The climate in northern Illinois can push even the best roofing systems to their limits. High winds, ice storms, and sudden temperature shifts are all common challenges we see during our roof inspections throughout Waukegan and neighboring towns.

Roof coatings can help:

• Extend your roof’s lifespan by 10–20 years

• Improve energy efficiency through better solar reflectivity

• Prevent costly leaks and reduce maintenance needs

• Delay full roof replacement, saving thousands of dollars

  
  

At Waukegan Pro Roofers (IL), we don’t just apply coatings — we provide comprehensive roofing services, including inspections, repairs, reinforcements, and new installations. Our team works closely with local property managers and business owners to create custom plans that fit both their roofing needs and their budgets.

Ready to Protect Your Investment?

If you’re unsure which coating is right for your building, we’re here to help. As your trusted neighborhood roofing experts, we’ve served the Waukegan community for years with honest advice, expert craftsmanship, and dependable service.

Let’s find the best solution for your roof — schedule your consultation with Waukegan Pro Roofers (IL) today or explore roofing materials with one of our specialists.

Protect your property. Trust your roof to the pros. Contact Waukegan Pro Roofers (IL) today!