There’s so much to like about metal roofs. They last for decades with almost no maintenance and no repairs needed. However, while their structural strength remains consistent throughout the years, different elements, like harsh sun, can take a toll on their appearance. If you notice fading or peeling paint or simply want to change things up in terms of color, you may be wondering – how to paint a metal roof. Can you even do it?
The answer is yes, and in this article, we’ll share tips and tricks to achieve the best result.
Why should you paint a metal roof?
There are many occasions when a homeowner might consider painting their roof. A well-maintained roof with a fresh coat of paint can increase property value, which is important, especially if you’re planning to sell. But even if selling isn’t part of your plans, it still may be wise to paint your roof.
While metal roofs are highly durable, they are still susceptible to corrosion, especially if you live in an area with high humidity. Thankfully, there is a solution for this problem – applying a protective coating of paint, which will serve as a barrier between your roof and different elements.
Another reason to paint a metal roof is energy efficiency. Light or reflective colors will help your oasis stay cool even during the hottest days, and you won’t need to use air conditioning as much.
If you don’t have a metal roof yet, use our metal roof cost calculator to see how much it would cost you.
Tips on how to paint a metal roof
Think about safety
Although painting your roof might not seem like a difficult task, it involves several risks. Working with a ladder is dangerous, even for the pros. Statistics show that nearly one in five construction-related fatalities occur during roof work. If you aren’t a trained roofer, we advise you to seek professional help.
If you feel confident in your skills and understand the risks, it’s important to consider several safety protocols. For example, never work alone – find someone to help you hold the ladder in place. Likewise, you should always make sure the extension ladder is secured against your house. Remember to wear a roof safety harness and put on sturdy, rubber-soled shoes to avoid slipping.
Do the prep work
Before you start the work, check the guidelines of your chosen paint manufacturer regarding temperature and humidity. Try to plan the process on a sunny day without precipitation (you should never work on a wet roof!). Keep in mind that weather that is too hot also isn’t good for paint performance.
Next, you should start with preparation. Before painting, you should wash your roof to remove dirt or residue. If your roof is covered with algae, this can be trickier, so we recommend to call a professional. Also, if you notice any rust spots, they should be removed with sandpaper. Otherwise, your paint is more likely to peel or have an uneven finish.
Remember that all surfaces should be dry before you continue to the next steps.
Don’t forget about primer
Your DIY project will continue with the application of primer otherwise, the paint may not bond properly. Ideally, choose an alkyd oil-based bonding primer, which has great adhesion. This shouldn’t be too challenging – take an extended roller and brush, and begin at the peak of your roof. After applying the primer, check the manufacturer’s guidelines for drying times before proceeding. Don’t rush – especially in humid weather, it can be quite long before the roof is dry.
Paint (finally!)
Now, it’s time to do the actual painting! We advise you to choose high-quality exterior paint or direct-to-metal (DTM) paint for best results. Apply the paint to your roof the same way you did before with primer. Let it dry, and then see whether you need a second coat (usually, you do).
Final thoughts on how to paint a metal roof
This may seem strange, but a lick of paint can really increase the lifespan of your roof. Since it works as a barrier between the surface and damaging elements, your metal roof will be more protected against wear and tear. Moreover, with the right materials (and proper work), the paint will last several years (sometimes even a decade).
As you can see, painting your metal roof has many advantages. Still, to avoid potential risks in the process, it’s best to delegate this task to experienced professionals. Contact our team at Instant Roofer, and let us take care of the hassle for you!
Fact checked by Lita Legzdina on 12/09/2024