In 1968 John Kaufmann, principal in the firm of Kaufmann Associates, Architects and Interior Designers, initiated a research programme aimed at identifying suitable alternatives to the traditional Bermuda roof. Initial development help was supplied by ICI Ltd. of England, with the first roof built in 1971 under the SKB Coatings name.

By 1976, SKB was producing a sound, economically viable roof system, a polymer bound plaster/stucco, latex adhesives, and acrylic cement modifiers. These advancements attracted the interest of companies outside of Bermuda.

Global Coatings was formed as a joint venture between John Kaufmann and Warnock Hersey Ltd. of Canada to develop and promote the SKB products outside of Bermuda. SKB Coatings Ltd. is the licensee in Bermuda.

One of the unsung benefits of SKB products and systems is their positive effective on the environment. An SKB roof eliminates the need for slate which is a diminishing natural resource. SKB roofs also provide better insulation than slate which in turn reduces energy consumption.

In recent years, a truly ingenious and inspiring use of SKB products has created a viable habitat alternative to one of Bermuda's enduring emblems - the Longtail. Igloos constructed of SKB roofing materials have been successfully introduced as alternative nesting sites for the birds who have lost many natural sites due to storm erosion.