Yes, you can paint a metal roof to improve its appearance and appeal. Metal roofs are versatile and available in a variety of colors. However, property owners may choose to paint their metal roofs for different reasons, including to refresh their property’s appearance and appeal, to complement the fresh lick of paint added to their property, or to improve the metal roof’s lifespan.
Whatever the reason, doing the painting correctly improves your results and ultimately impacts your building’s value and appearance. If you’ve recently bought and installed your metal roof, it may be cost-effective to wait six months before purchasing metal roof paint. The six months waiting period allows you to enjoy the metal roof’s original color while allowing weather elements to act on it. At the end of the six months, the original paint may have begun fading, thus making your job easier.
Benefits of Painting your Metal Roof
Many property owners are not aware they can paint their metal roofs. Moreover, they do not know the many benefits of painting a metal roof. If you’re one of them, here are some benefits to know;
Increased lifespan: Painting your metal roof improves its lifespan. By adding a fresh coat of paint to your metal roof, you’ll effectively seal the holes and cracks in it, thus preventing leaks.
Sustainability: Painting your metal roof allows you to choose the most desired paint to add to it. Choosing lightly colored paints improves heat energy reflection, which can contribute positively to your indoor energy use efficiency and reduce heat percolation. It is also a good way to lower energy bills and save money. Aesthetics: Every property owner loves to keep their property looking its best all the time. A fresh coat of paint on your metal roof can improve your property’s value, appeal, and appearance.
Tools Needed To Paint a Metal Roof
Painting your metal roof is no child’s play. You must be willing to work at a height and have the requisite safety gear to prevent accidents or damage to your roof. As part of your preparation for the job, here are some of the most important tools needed to paint your metal roof.
Rust-inhibitive metal primer: This compound encourages paint adherence to the metal roof’s surface, thus reducing rust.
Topcoat in the desired color: Topcoat is applied in the desired color to improve the roof’s appearance and shine.
Wire brush or wire wheel: Used to remove old paint from the metal roof surface and promote new paint adherence.
Power washer: Cleans dirt, dust, mold, and debris from the metal roof’s surface.
Paint brushes, rollers, etc.: Used for applying paint to the metal roof.
Paint spray – Used for spraying paint on the metal roof.
Ladders or scaffolding: Used to reach the metal roof.
All the items above are essential for painting your metal roof. However, you should hire a professional painter if you aren’t good with heights. If you must DIY this project, you should also strictly observe all safety protocols.
Now that you have all the tools needed to complete the job, you can start planning the next step to paint your metal roofing. As part of your plan, here are some recommendations;
Don’t paint alone: Grabbing a buddy when attempting a task like this is always advisable. Your buddy can help you steady the ladder as you climb up or down. Having a buddy on the job can also reduce fatigue and encourage you to get the job done faster.
Work from the ladder: A good safety practice is to work from your ladder as much as possible. Your ladder can support your weight when in good condition, but your roof may not. Your ladder is the best option, especially when spray painting your metal roof. If, however, you need to use paint brushes or rollers, contact a professional.
Wear a harness with safety ropes: Make sure you have a harness with safety ropes if you need to DIY using rollers or paint brushes. The safety rope secures you from falling, especially when you miss your footing or slip off the roof.
Preparing Your Metal Roof
Remove old paint: The first step is to remove the old paint. Please be advised that you should never add a fresh coat of paint to the old one. Instead, use your wire brush or wire wheel to remove the old paint.
Wash your roof: Wash your roof once the old paint has been removed. This washing ensures you don’t paint over dust, debris, and other particles. Allow the roof to dry off and drain properly before taking further action. Apply the paint: Once your roof is properly drained and dry, begin spray painting or apply paint using a brush and rollers.
How to Paint Your Metal Roof
Painting your metal roof can be tricky. However, you stand a better chance when you do it correctly. Here are the recommended steps to follow;
Choose a nice day with nice weather: Choose a warm day to paint your metal roof. Avoid days with high temperatures as you may get exhausted easily from working under the sun. Your best bet should be during spring.
Apply your primer: Begin painting by first applying the paint primer directly to the metal roof’s bare surface. The primer bonds with the metal roof and creates a canvas upon which you can add your top coat. Once applied, take a rest while you allow the primer to dry off. You can return to your roof after about an hour or two.
Apply topcoat paint: Apply the topcoat paint once your primer has completely dried. Ensure that an even tone is maintained throughout the application. Choose a favorable direction, left to right or top to bottom, and stick to it until the painting is complete.
Mistakes to Avoid
While metal roof painting is recommended and beneficial, doing it the wrong way can cost you some money in the nearest future. Here are some mistakes to avoid;
- Not using sealants
- Not choosing energy-efficient topcoat paint
- Using leftover paint
- Not estimating enough materials for the project.
- Overestimating the materials needed for the project.
Wegner Roofing and solar offers all types of roofing solutions, including metal roof repairs and installations. Trust our roofing people to work closely with you to ensure a successful roofing project.
