Metal roofs are a long-lasting, durable option for people wanting a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional roofing materials such as asphalt shingles. Metal roofs require minimal upkeep and can last anywhere from 30 to 50 years, some even longer. That being said, you will need to periodically repaint a metal roof to preserve its integrity and keep it looking its best for many years to come. This durability should give you confidence in your investment in a metal roof.
Repainting a metal roof is straightforward and easy with the right knowledge. The best part is that it’s not time-consuming. In fact, you can complete the restoration in just a weekend! This simplicity should give you confidence that you can handle this project on your own.
Regardless of the type of metal roof you have, whether it’s zinc, tin, steel, or another type, priming and repainting can help maintain its appearance and protect your property. On average, you should aim to repaint your metal roof every 10 to 15 years. However, if you’re considering a style or color change, you can refresh it earlier. Keep in mind that older rolled steel or galvanized metal roofing may require more frequent repainting and rust management to maintain its appearance.
This post will look at how to repaint a metal roof correctly to ensure the best possible finish and protection. This five-step process will also look at the tools you will need and how to carry out the paint job safely.
Tools for Repainting A Metal Roof
Before you jump into painting your metal roof, you first need to ensure you have all the correct tools and materials for the job at hand. These can include;
- Ladder
- Safety goggles
- Protective clothing
- Primer
- Oil-based paint/ acrylic latex paint
- Brushes
- Rollers
- Cleaning equipment to prep the roof.
- Putty Knife
- Sandpaper or wire brush
- Sandpaper
- Cleaning materials and/or a pressure washer
- A Buddy
What to Bear in Mind Before Repainting A Metal Roof
Before you head off and start the work, it’s important to remember that you will be working at height, so taking safety precautions is imperative. Work with a buddy, have safety precautions set up in case of any incidents, and never attempt to take on something that is outside your scope of abilities, e.g., fixing damage to roofing so as not to cause more damage. These advisements are in place to ensure your safety and protection throughout the process.
Take some time to check out the roof and get an idea of how you will need to approach it. Understand the type of roofing you have so you can buy the correct paint; galvanized steel roofing requires zinc dust or latex paint, while terne roofing, which is being phased out due to the lead components, requires oil-based paint. Look for any particularly tricky areas and understand how you need to approach the tasks at hand before starting.
Always check the manufacturer’s directions for the paint and primer you are using so you can apply it in the correct weather conditions and use the right techniques. Ideally, you will have a few dry days consectively to apply the paint and work in the correct weather conditions for optimal results. Avoid painting your metal roof when it’s wet or on really hot days.
Step 1: Examine The Roof
Prior to starting any work, it’s essential to conduct a comprehensive roof inspection. This step is crucial as it allows you to identify any damage that needs to be addressed before repainting. Look for areas with chipped paint, debris buildup, or any other issues that could pose a problem during the process.
Step 2: Preparing The Roof
For the best results when repainting a metal roof, you need to ensure correct preparation before the new coat is applied. Use your putty knife to remove any chipped or loose paint on the roof. For particularly stubborn areas, you might find using sandpaper or a metal rush easier. Apply this technique to any patches of rust that might be present, and then lightly sand the roof with sandpaper. You need to be left with a textured finish to help the paint bond with the metal.
You can do this with a pressure washer, but doing it by hand is preferable as you can see any issues up close and know exactly what you’re working with, which might not be possible when using a pressure washer.
Step 3: Clean the Roof
Your roof needs to be completely clean to give you the best finish and results. You can use a pressure washer to clean your metal roof if you wish. This will remove any chalky residue or dust and dirt from the roof. If there is mold or algae buildup on the roof, then you can use bleach to clear it and then rinse with your pressure washer. You should use it on the low setting when cleaning your roof to avoid any damage or dents from the pressure of the water.
You can also clean the roof by hand using mild laundry detergent, dish soap, or white vinegar, applying it with rags to thoroughly clean the surface. Then, use a hose or lower-pressure washer to rinse the roof so no residue remains.
Step 4: Apply the Primer
Once the roof is clean and dry, you need to apply the primer. This is one of the most important parts, as it allows the paint to adhere to the roof and provides a smooth base for the paint application. You want to use a ladder and apply a thick, generous coat of primer to the roof. Wait at least an hour or until the primer is dry, as per the manufacturer’s guidelines, before applying your coat of paint.
Start at the roof’s peak and work your way down the ladder using a methodical system to ensure complete coverage. To ensure good coverage, use a roller or a paint sprayer for this step, and then fish up with a brush for any missed spots or harder-to-reach areas.
For galvanized metal roofing, use an acrylic metal primer or an oil-based primer for other roofing types.
Step 5: Paint The Roof
Once the primer is dry, you are ready to paint the roof. Using your chosen paint based on your roof type, follow the application directions for optimal results. Apply using a brush or roller, and again, as you did with the primer, apply liberally across the roof for even coverage. Wait at least an hour or until the paint is dry and play a second coat as per the manufacturer’s directions. Then, repeat the process as necessary. Ideally, you want at least two heavy coats of paint applied with a roller for even coverage and to ensure no mistakes.
Again, work from the peak down towards your ladder for the first coat. Then, work in the opposite direction for the second coat to ensure you get any parts you might have missed the first time around.
And that’s it! Wait for the paint to dry, inspect the roof to ensure that you haven’t missed anything, and you can enjoy your new roof for years to come.
FAQs for Repainting a Metal Roof
What Paint Do I Need?
To paint a metal roof, you need to make sure you’re using paint that is suitable for outdoor use and specifically for metal surfaces. From here, you need to determine the type of metal roof you have for the right paint. Galvanized steel roofing requires latex or zinc dust-based paint, while other roofing types can be painted with oil-based paint.
Do I Need a Primer?
Yes, you need to prime your roof before painting. When painted, unprimed metal roofs don’t last as long or give as good a finish as primed ones. This is because the paint doesn’t bond with the metal, resulting in chipped and peeling paintwork.
How Long Does It Take To Paint A Metal Roof?
It doesn’t take too long to rely on a metal roof. Depending on the size of your roof, you can generally do the entire job in around a weekend; it takes longer for larger roofing areas. It’s important to allow yourself plenty of time to repaint your metal roof, as you require a five-step process for preparation and application for best results.
Does the Paint Fade?
The paint on your metal roof will fade over time due to exposure to the elements; this is only natural. Using high-quality tools and materials and applying primer and top coat, if you prefer, can extend the vibrancy of your roof color, but you should expect it to fade in time.
How Do I Repaint a Metal Roof?
To repaint a metal roof, you can use the abovementioned process to carry out the work yourself. Always use safety equipment and the correct tools before starting any work, and be confident you can complete the entire paint job before starting. If you feel you cannot repaint your metal roof, you can contact professionals to undertake the work to ensure a proper job is carried out for the best results.