Gaco roof coatings have gained substantial attention in the roofing industry for their waterproofing capabilities and durability. These silicone-based roof coatings offer homeowners and commercial property managers solutions for extending roof life and improving energy efficiency. This article examines user experiences, performance metrics, and overall value of Gaco roof coating products based on comprehensive reviews, helping you determine if these coatings are the right choice for your roofing needs.
| Product Line | Best For | Average Rating | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| GacoRoof | Residential flat roofs | 4.3/5 | $110-$180 per gallon |
| GacoPro | Commercial applications | 4.5/5 | $150-$220 per gallon |
| GacoFlex | Various substrates | 4.2/5 | $100-$170 per gallon |
Gaco Western, now owned by Firestone Building Products, has been manufacturing high-quality waterproofing products since 1955. Their roof coatings are primarily silicone-based formulations designed to create a seamless membrane that protects roofs from water infiltration, UV damage, and temperature fluctuations. The company’s flagship products include GacoRoof, GacoPro, and GacoFlex, each formulated for different roofing applications.
What distinguishes Gaco from many competitors is their 100% silicone formulation which doesn’t break down under ponding water – a common issue with many flat or low-slope roofs. Their products are marketed as one-coat solutions that can extend roof life by up to 50 years with proper maintenance and reapplication.
Popular Gaco Roof Coating Products
Based on customer reviews and market presence, these are the most widely used Gaco roofing products:
- GacoRoof – The residential flagship product, designed for DIY application on virtually any roof surface
- GacoPro – Professional-grade coating for commercial applications with enhanced durability
- GacoFlex S20 Series – Premium silicone coating with excellent weathering characteristics
- GacoFlex E5320 – Two-component epoxy primer used before applying silicone topcoats
- GacoRoofFoam – Spray polyurethane foam insulation often used as a substrate under coatings
Each product line has received specific feedback from contractors and homeowners regarding their performance in various climate conditions and substrate types. The S20 Series consistently receives the highest marks for longevity and weather resistance across most reviews.
Performance Reviews from Professionals
Professional roofers and contractors generally rate Gaco products favorably in their reviews. Many praise the excellent adhesion properties that allow the coatings to bond well with different substrates, including existing roof materials. Contractors report particular success when using Gaco products on metal roofs, modified bitumen, and single-ply membranes.
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According to multiple professional reviews, Gaco silicone coatings maintain flexibility even in extreme temperatures, which helps prevent cracking during thermal expansion and contraction cycles. Many contractors specifically mention the superior performance in ponding water situations, where other coatings typically fail over time.
Application reviews indicate that while Gaco products can be relatively thick and require proper equipment, they generally provide excellent coverage at the recommended application rates of 1.5-2 gallons per 100 square feet.
Homeowner Satisfaction Ratings
DIY enthusiasts and homeowners report mixed but generally positive experiences with Gaco coatings, particularly with the GacoRoof line. Many appreciate the relatively straightforward application process that doesn’t always require professional equipment. Customer reviews commonly mention immediate leak resolution after application.
In terms of long-term performance, homeowners in hot, sunny climates particularly praise the heat-reflective properties that contribute to lower cooling costs. Reviews from regions with severe winters note good performance through freeze-thaw cycles, though some mention the need for touch-ups after 5-7 years in harsh conditions.
Common criticism in homeowner reviews centers around the initial cost investment and occasional difficulty achieving consistent thickness when self-applying. Some also mention strong odors during application, suggesting good ventilation is essential.
Rating Breakdown from User Reviews
- Ease of Application: 3.8/5
- Waterproofing Performance: 4.6/5
- UV Resistance: 4.4/5
- Longevity: 4.2/5
- Value for Money: 3.9/5
Climate-Specific Performance
Review data shows Gaco coatings perform differently across various climate zones:
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| Climate Type | Performance Rating | Notable Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| Hot, arid (Southwest US) | 4.7/5 | Excellent UV resistance, minimal degradation |
| Hot, humid (Southeast US) | 4.5/5 | Good mold/algae resistance, maintains flexibility |
| Cold, snowy (Northeast/Midwest) | 4.0/5 | Good performance but may require more frequent touch-ups |
| Rainy, moderate (Pacific Northwest) | 4.6/5 | Superior performance in ponding water situations |
Reviewers in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations particularly appreciate Gaco’s flexibility, which helps prevent cracking when the substrate expands and contracts. Coastal area users note good salt-spray resistance compared to other coating brands.
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Cost is frequently discussed in Gaco coating reviews, with most users acknowledging the premium price point but generally finding value in the long-term performance. At approximately $100-$220 per gallon depending on the specific product, Gaco coatings are positioned as premium offerings in the market.
Many reviews perform comparative cost analyses between roof replacement and Gaco coating application, with most concluding that coatings offer significant savings. Professional reviewers frequently cite a return on investment period of 3-5 years when accounting for energy savings, especially with the highly reflective white coatings.
Commercial property managers reviewing the products often mention the tax benefits of roof coatings, which can typically be expensed as maintenance rather than capitalized as a new roof would be.
Common Issues Mentioned in Reviews
Despite overall positive sentiment, reviews consistently mention several drawbacks:
- Temperature sensitivity during application – Many report difficulties when applying in non-ideal weather conditions
- Strong odor during curing process, requiring proper ventilation
- Higher upfront cost compared to acrylic or asphalt-based alternatives
- Steep learning curve for DIY applications, with some mentioning wastage during first attempts
- Occasional reports of premature failure when surface preparation was inadequate
Reviews emphasize that proper surface preparation is critical to success. The most common reason cited for coating failure across negative reviews was inadequate cleaning or priming before application.
Application Tips from Successful Users
Reviewers who report the best results with Gaco coatings consistently mention these best practices:
- Thorough cleaning of the substrate before application, including power washing
- Using the recommended primers for different surface types
- Applying during ideal temperature ranges of 50-95°F
- Ensuring at least 24 hours of dry weather after application
- Using proper tools – many recommend 3/4″ nap rollers for even application
- Following the recommended application thickness of 22 wet mils
Professional reviews specifically mention the importance of addressing all roof penetrations, seams, and flashings with reinforcement fabric embedded in the coating for the best long-term performance.
Comparison with Competing Products
When comparing Gaco to other major silicone roof coating brands like Henry, GE, and Firestone, reviewers note several distinctions. Gaco products are frequently praised for better viscosity and coverage rates than many competitors, allowing for potentially easier application.
In durability comparisons, Gaco generally scores well against competitors, with many contractors reporting comparable or better longevity than other premium brands. Several professional reviews point out that Gaco’s acquisition by Firestone has improved product availability while maintaining quality standards.
In the value segment, some reviews note that while cheaper alternatives exist, they rarely match Gaco’s performance in severe weather conditions or with ponding water. The general consensus is that Gaco offers superior performance that justifies the higher price point for most applications.
How to Get the Best Roofing Quotes
- Prioritize Workmanship
A roof is one of your home’s most important investments. Always choose a contractor based on experience and reputation — not just price. Poor installation can lead to expensive problems down the road. - Compare Multiple Estimates
Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. It’s always a smart move to compare at least three bids from local roofing professionals. You can 877-801-4315 to get local quotes from roofing contractors in your area, available across the United States. - Use Negotiation Tactics
After selecting a trusted roofer, be sure to use our proven tips — How to Negotiate with Roofing Contractors — to secure the best possible final price without cutting corners.