Professional roof treatments like Roof Maxx use eco-friendly oils to restore flexibility to asphalt shingles and can extend a roof’s lifespan by up to 15 years. In contrast, DIY spray-on coatings are cheaper but typically only offer short-term waterproofing without improving shingle condition. Professional applications also reduce the risk of installation errors, while DIY methods may be less reliable and can negatively impact the roof’s appearance.
Spraying certain treatments on your rooftop can be a great way to help the asphalt shingles last longer, but having a professional apply a penetrant like Roof Maxx is very different from using a DIY spray-on coating.
Making an informed decision about the roof treatments you use means carefully evaluating these different options—including their ingredients, application methods, and likely results. We’ve created this guide to help you get started so that you can take the right steps to protect the roof over your head.
Most approaches to treating a roof made of asphalt shingles fall into one of two categories:
Although both of these approaches involve spraying a solution onto the shingles, the results can be very different. Let’s explore both options in detail to give you a clearer idea of their pros and cons.
Learn More: The 2025 Buyer’s Guide to Roof Rejuvenation Products
Roof Maxx is a professional spray-on penetrant for asphalt shingle roofs. We apply an eco-friendly plant-based oil to your rooftop, which seeps in and replaces the oils that your shingles have naturally lost over time as they’ve been exposed to the elements.
Spraying a roof with Roof Maxx usually costs about 15-30% as much as the price of replacing the roof—but it can extend the lifespan of the shingles you already have by up to 15 years in some cases. This makes it a relatively cost-effective way to preserve the condition of your roof while improving its appearance.
Learn More: How Much Does Roof Maxx Cost?
Professionally applied roofing sprays also tend to come with warranties that can guarantee the quality of the treatment. For example, Roof Maxx comes with a 5-year warranty that begins on the date of your treatment.
Search online and you’ll quickly find that there’s a wide variety of shingle coatings available. You’ll also notice that there’s a huge range in terms of what they cost, how much you get, and how they’re actually meant to be used.
The rule of thumb with roofing products is that you get what you pay for—yes, you can buy a spray for your rooftop that costs less than $20 on Amazon, but look carefully at what it actually does and you may find that it’s not quite the bargain you wanted.
Most spray-on options that you can apply yourself won’t actually restore the condition of asphalt shingles—they simply add a layer of silicone on top that can help make them more waterproof. But these can also alter the appearance of your shingles if you aren’t careful with how much you apply, and knowing exactly how much to apply can be difficult.
Here’s a comparison chart to help you see the differences between professional coatings and DIY spray-on products at a glance:
| Professional Roof Revitalization (e.g., Roof Maxx) | DIY Spray-On Coatings | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Cost | ~15–30% of the cost of roof replacement | Typically inexpensive, starting as low as $20 |
| Lifespan Extension | Up to 15 years | Does not significantly extend lifespan |
| Ingredients | Eco-friendly, plant-based oils | Often silicone-based, primarily for waterproofing |
| Application Method | Professionally applied by trained technicians | Applied by homeowner |
| Warranties | Often includes a warranty (e.g., 5-year warranty) | Rarely includes a warranty |
| Skill Required | Professional installation ensures correct application | Requires DIY knowledge; prone to errors |
| Impact on Appearance | Restores shingles’ flexibility and appearance | Can alter appearance if not applied correctly |
| Environmental Impact | Low, uses eco-friendly materials | Varies depending on the product |
| Overall Cost-Effectiveness | Cost-effective long-term solution | Short-term fix, may not provide significant savings overall |
With our five-year, transferable warranty, you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that your roof and entire home are protected.
