What to watch in coatings in 2026

CCS Influencer John Kenney says the contractors who benefit most won’t be the ones chasing every new product; they’ll be the ones who understand which innovations solve real problems in their markets. 

The coatings industry is changing fast, and if you're paying attention, you can see that 2026 is shaping up to be one of those years when the market takes a noticeable step forward. A lot of the developments we’re seeing aren’t gimmicks; they’re tied directly to performance, risk reduction and long-term value for building owners. Here’s where things are heading and what’s worth watching as these products move from the lab to the rooftop. 

Innovative coatings have been discussed for a while, but now they’re finally showing real promise. Some of the newer systems use microcapsules that activate when the coating is stressed or damaged. Others pair with sensors that can pick up moisture or membrane movement long before there’s a leak. Think of it as intelligence built into the film itself. It won’t replace inspections or maintenance, but it does give owners and contractors another layer of protection and a better handle on what’s happening under the surface. 

Reflective technology is also evolving. We’ve all worked with cool roof coatings long enough to know what they can do, but some of the next-generation formulas are taking it further. Certain pigments actually shift performance as the surface temperature climbs, so the roof reflects more when the heat is at its worst. It reduces thermal cycling and eases the load on the building. And with more owners chasing energy credits or long-term utility savings, expect this sector to keep growing. 

Another area making life easier in the field is moisture-tolerant primers. Anyone who has recoated an older roof knows substrate moisture can derail a job in seconds — the newer primers bond better under imperfect conditions, which means fewer weather delays and less schedule pressure. We’re also seeing rapid-cure chemistries that speed up return — to-service times — helpful on retail, healthcare and manufacturing facilities where you can’t close long sections of a building. 

Reinforced coating systems shouldn’t be overlooked either. More manufacturers are blending liquid-applied products with embedded mesh or reinforcing fabrics, creating a hybrid system that behaves more like a membrane than a simple coating. They perform better in areas prone to movement — parapets, joints and transitions that historically create headaches. It’s a practical solution for owners looking to buy more time before a complete tear-off. 

On the technology front, some coatings are beginning to “report back.” Embedded monitoring isn’t widespread yet, but it’s coming. A system that can alert you to trouble — moisture intrusion, loss of adhesion or impact damage — offers real value to owners with critical operations or difficult-to-access roofs. Expect more of this as the roofing industry leans toward data-driven asset management. 

Sustainability continues to influence what manufacturers produce. Low-VOC formulations, safer chemistry and products with recycled content are quickly becoming standard. Codes, environmental goals and even insurance pressures are pushing this shift. Contractors who understand these evolving requirements will be better positioned to advise clients and secure long-term maintenance relationships. 

Nanotechnology is also entering the conversation. These ultra-thin protective layers are designed to shed dirt, resist water and reduce surface fouling. They aren’t meant to replace complete roofing systems, but as a top layer, they can help extend a coating’s life and reduce the need for frequent cleaning. Superhydrophobic versions go a step further, forcing water to bead and roll off before it can sit and cause issues. They’re still developing, but the potential is there, especially for metal surfaces. 

The bottom line heading into 2026 is simple: coatings are getting smarter, tougher and more responsive to the challenges roofs face every day. The contractors who benefit most won’t be the ones chasing every new product; they’ll be the ones who understand which innovations solve real problems in their markets. Try new systems on smaller projects, lean on manufacturer reps for training and evaluate performance honestly. If you approach these advances with the same discipline you bring to every roof you install, you’ll stay ahead of the curve and give your clients solutions that carry real value.