A properly-installed, well-maintained metal roof protects your home from the elements, but also makes it look great.
However, if you’ve got a metal roof that came with the home you purchased– or you’re just tired of the color you chose for your home’s metal roof– you might be wondering: can you paint a metal roof?
Don’t worry– the answer is yes! There are a few things you should know before you get started, but rest assured that there’s a way to choose whatever color you’d like for your metal roof.
Can you paint a metal roof?
Absolutely! Painting a metal roof can be a practical and very cost-effective way to extend its lifespan, and even enhance your home’s curb appeal. While metal roofs are built to last a long time, a properly-applied protective coating of paint can make it even more durable.
What’s the right paint for a metal roof?
Choosing the right paint for your metal roof is a very important step in the process. When choosing paint, focus your search on high-quality acrylic or elastomeric coatings that are specifically designed for use on metal roofs.
(“Elastomeric” means that the paint is made from a rubber-like polymer that hardens into a flexible and watertight covering. It’s able to stretch and then return to its original form without damage– which is key, since a metal roof expands in the heat and contracts in the cold.)
How should I prepare my metal roof before painting?
Preparation before painting your metal roof is necessary. Be sure to clean your roof thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or existing peeled paint. We’d recommend using a pressure washer for this task.
While cleaning your roof, make sure to keep an eye out for any rust spots, dents, or damage. It’s essential to repair these before painting the roof. If you choose to paint over any rusty spots, the problem will likely get worse underneath the paint and negatively impact the protection that your roof offers your home.
Should I prime my metal roof before painting?
Applying a metal primer is essential– it helps to enhance paint adhesion, and provides an extra layer of protection. Choose a high-quality metal primer. Be sure to use one that’s compatible with your selected paint.
If you choose a primer that doesn’t work with the paint you’ve chosen, the paint will not adhere properly to the primer. This can result in peeling, cracking, or bubbling paint that will make your roof look bad. It will also not create a proper bond between the surface and paint, which means that it won’t last nearly as long.
What tools should I use to paint my metal roof?
In order to ensure that your metal roof looks great when you’ve finished, you’ll need to choose the proper tools. The choice whether to use brushes, rollers, or a paint sprayer is yours, but the best tool for the job depends on the size of your roof.
Typically, rollers are your best bet– they come in many sizes, and there are rollers specifically designed to accommodate the seams on a metal roof. If you have a larger roof, a paint sprayer might work just as well while making the job a little easier.
How should I apply the paint– and when?
Once you’ve cleaned and prepared your roof, repairing it if necessary, and primed the surface, it’s time to paint. If you’ve ensured that the primer is dry, choose a day when the weather is favorable– rain or strong wind will definitely make the job harder than it needs to be.
Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions for paint application, and work carefully from one end of the roof to the other. Apply as many coats as the manufacturer recommends and be careful to follow the instructions on the container as closely as possible.
How can I make sure my metal roof painting project is successful?
If you’re not comfortable with the process of painting your metal roof, or have a large roof to take care of, hiring a professional might be your best bet. But if you’re comfortable tackling the job yourself, be sure to work from a sturdy ladder or scaffolding to stay safe during the process. Always use caution when you’re on the roof, and wear the appropriate safety gear, which might include gloves or a respirator.
Painting your metal roof can be difficult, but it’s a rewarding home improvement project that can make your home look amazing while providing additional protection to your metal roof.
If you’ve got questions about the process or want more information about metal roofs, give us a call today!