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This article summarizes applications of sol-gel coatings to modify surface properties, and the process is illustrated with several examples. The use of azobenzene-modified silanes leads to a photoswitchable coating displaying light-controlled wettability. Silane coupling reactions are used to coat surfaces with polymers, in order to hinder the ice crystal growth on surfaces. Liquid-like coatings based on poly(ethylene glycol) show anti-adhesive properties to lime. The preparation of aerogels could be improved by selecting proper silanes as coupling agents to the inner surface of the pores. These examples illustrate that sol-gel processes based on silianation reactons are most promising for industrial applications.