At Seamless Roofing, we talk a lot about silicone roof coatings—and for good reason. When they’re done right, they can outlast almost anything Mother Nature throws at them.
But here’s the catch: “done right” is doing a lot of work in that sentence.
As a facility manager, you're faced with that decision. You have two proposals on your desk, both claiming to stop the leaks. One uses a material that will fail the first time water ponds, leading to costly repairs and disruptions. The other is chemically designed to resist water for decades.
The difference isn't just the quote; it's the chemistry—and choosing a contractor who understands it is the essential first step in protecting your investment.
The Contenders: Silicone vs. Acrylic
Two standard coating systems in commercial roofing are silicone and acrylic. They may look similar at first glance, but a closer look reveals significant differences in how they handle environmental stressors. A roofer who doesn’t fully understand the science behind these materials risks recommending a solution that could fail prematurely.
Acrylic coatings have been used for decades and offer some clear advantages:
- Excellent for sloped roofs where water drains quickly.
- Reflective properties that can help reduce energy costs.
- Relatively low cost and easy application process.
However, acrylic coatings have a chemical limitation that can render them unsuitable for certain commercial properties.
Acrylic can break down when ponding water occurs. This failure isn't due to installation mistakes or contractor errors; it’s a natural limitation of the material. When water sits on the roof for a long time, it erodes the acrylic coating, eventually exposing the substrate and creating chances for leaks. This situation is especially risky for low-slope or flat roofs, where ponding is almost unavoidable.
Case Study: When a Good Roof Failed Too Soon
We recently inspected a commercial property. The roof was only 15 years old—practically middle-aged—and looked fine from the street. But in one low spot, ponding water had quietly eaten through the acrylic coating.
Not because anyone installed it wrong.
Because acrylic simply can’t win that fight.
The result:
- Coating breakdown due to chemical limitations, not poor workmanship.
- Leaks developing in the affected area.
- The client facing costly repairs that could have been avoided.
This example highlights an important point: even a high-quality acrylic system can fail prematurely if applied in an environment it wasn't designed for. Ponding water is a common problem on flat or low-slope roofs; material choice must reflect this.
The Right Solution: Silicone as the Hero
Silicone coatings provide a chemistry that flat and low-slope roofs need to resist ponding water. Unlike acrylic, silicone does not degrade when submerged, making it highly durable when water collects and stays on the surface.
Why silicone wins:
- Built for ponding water – It won’t break down, even after decades of exposure.
- Flexible by nature – Expands and contracts without cracking.
- Energy efficiency – Reflects UV rays to keep buildings cooler.
- Long-term value – Lasts longer, needs fewer repairs, and pays for itself over time.
The building owner in our case study decided to replace the failing acrylic system with silicone. This approach isn't just about fixing a leak; it's about addressing the underlying chemical cause of the failure. By selecting a coating designed to withstand ponding water, the building will now benefit from dependable protection for many years.
The Key Takeaway
Knowing when to use a specific material and system is crucial for long-term performance. Not all roofs are the same, and selecting the right coating can be the difference between a durable, reliable system and ongoing maintenance problems.
Before you sign a coating contract, ask your contractor one simple question: “Why this material?” If your contractor can’t answer confidently, call Seamless Roofing. We’ll show you the science—and the savings— behind choosing the right system the first time.
If you're considering assessing your flat or low-slope roof, especially if ponding water is an issue, it’s important to seek a professional diagnosis rather than just a quote. Contact us at (317) 699-4463 to explore solutions backed by durable, scientifically designed materials.