Metal Roof Coating Prices: What Drives the Cost and What You Should Expect
When budgeting for industrial roof refurbishment, few topics generate more uncertainty than metal roof coating prices. Quotations vary widely across the UK, and specifiers are often presented with incomplete or incomparable cost data. This article sets out the real cost drivers, the typical price ranges, and the conditions under which those figures become more expensive — or more economical.
The goal is straightforward: to help surveyors, asset managers and contractors understand what they should realistically expect to pay for a professionally applied metal roof coating system.
Why Metal Roof Coating Prices Vary So Widely
At first glance, coating a metal roof seems simple. In practice, roof condition, preparation requirements and system selection are the biggest variables. Each has a significant impact on pricing:
1. Condition of the Existing Roof
No two industrial metal roofs age the same. Factors such as cut edge corrosion, previous treatments, mechanical damage, and sheet distortion all influence preparation time. A roof with widespread peeling Plastisol, for example, requires far more mechanical preparation than a lightly weathered sheet. Because labour dominates the job cost, this alone can move the price by £5–£10 per square metre.
2. Access and Site Logistics
Metal roof coating prices increase where access is restricted. Multi-roof layouts, fragile roof areas, the presence of rooftop plant, or the need for specialist MEWP equipment all push contractor costs upward. Larger, simple layouts are always more economical per square metre.
3. The Coating System Used
Not all coating systems perform the same way, and not all come with the same level of certification. BBA-certified systems typically sit at the higher end of the cost range due to their proven long-term performance and inspection requirements. Solvent-free systems, silicone-based systems, and hybrid systems all have different material costs and coverage rates.
4. Cut Edge Corrosion Treatment
Many industrial roofs require a dedicated cut edge corrosion system before the topcoat is applied. Where used, this adds both labour and material cost. Treatment of overlaps, removal of historic systems, and anti-corrosion priming all contribute significantly to the final price.
5. Local Contractor Rates
Metal roof coating prices in the UK vary regionally, with higher labour rates in the South East and more competitive pricing in the Midlands, North West and North East. Mobilisation fees may also increase on smaller sites.
Typical Metal Roof Coating Prices in the UK (2026)
Based on current market conditions and data from approved installer networks, the following is a realistic guide to metal roof coating prices for industrial and commercial properties in 2026:
Standard Metal Roof Coating (Good Condition)
Suitable for roofs with light oxidisation, no significant peeling and minimal cut edge corrosion.
£18–£25 per m²
Includes: light mechanical preparation, cleaning, primer (if required), and application of a mid-life coating system.
Full Refurbishment Using a BBA-Certified System
Used for ageing roofs, dilapidations projects and long-term protection strategies.
£28–£40 per m²
Includes: full mechanical preparation, corrosion treatment, anti-corrosion primer, and application of a high-performance silicone or hybrid coating system designed for 25-year service life.
Roofs Requiring Cut Edge Corrosion Treatment
Where cut edge corrosion is significant and needs a stand-alone system:
- Approximately £18 per linear metre, but this will vary depending upon the complexity of the roof and the extent of the cut edge corrosion.
Partial Coatings or Localised Repairs
Suitable only in limited circumstances, often part of planned maintenance.
£350–£650 per day for small works teams (less cost-effective unless integrated into a wider programme). Localised repairs often utilise temporary access arrangements such as MEWPS and scaffold towers, rather then full scaffolding.
How to Obtain Accurate Metal Roof Coating Prices
To secure reliable and comparable quotations, surveyors and contractors should follow this process:
1. Commission a Roof Condition Survey
A thorough inspection prevents allowances, assumptions and cost surprises. Metal roof coating prices are only meaningful when based on verified defect data. Click here to arrange an independent industrial roof survey.
2. Specify the System in Detail
Generic descriptions such as “apply metal roof coating” lead to incomparable quotations and specification drift. A robust specification should include:
- Surface preparation standards
- Treatment method for cut edges
- Primer type and coverage rates
- Coating material, thickness and warranty conditions
- Exclusions and access assumptions
3. Avoid Overlaps Sealed with Historic Systems
If existing treatments are present, they should generally be removed. Over-coating incompatible systems can create failure pathways and artificial cost savings that do not withstand inspection.
4. Use Specialist Contractors
The cheapest contractor seldom delivers the lowest life-cycle cost. Metal roof coating is a technical process requiring correct surface preparation, environmental controls, and product handling. Always look to engage a contractor that is trained and experienced in the use of the specified coating system.
How Coating Prices Compare to Other Refurbishment Options
Understanding opportunity cost is essential:
- Over-cladding: typically £60–£90 per m²
- Full roof replacement: often £120–£180 per m²
- Coating refurbishment: usually £20–£40 per m²
For many industrial buildings—especially on dilapidations, pre-letting works or mid-life refurbishment—professional coating offers the most economical route to extending roof life without major disruption.
Final Thoughts
The phrase “metal roof coating prices” covers a wide range of potential costs, but the key variables are always condition, preparation and system selection. With a proper roof survey, a detailed specification and competent installation, coating remains one of the most cost-effective strategies for extending the life of metal roofing systems.
Further Guidance and Technical Resources
You can find more detail on Liquasil’s metal roof coating systems below: