Abstract: Methods and apparatus for applying a coating composition of an alkyl alkoxy silane reacted with a vitreous or siliceous substrate under automation is disclosed. The coating provides water repellence, durability and ease of cleaning to glass or other siliceous surfaces. The coating is formed by applying an excess of an alkoxy solution to a substrate followed by removal of excess solution following reaction of the solution to form a monolayer on the substrate. The apparatus of the invention is an automation conveyor system which facilitates formation of a monolayer of coating composition and removal of excess composition to provide a transparent coating on the substrate at a rate of speed exceeding manual application.