Having a metal roof installed comes with a lot of benefits. These roofs can take a lot from the elements, without showing any damage. They are also one of the most long-lasting roofing materials out there. If you want to get the absolute most out of them, then it’s always a good idea to have your metal roof painted.
How long does metal roof paint last, and how much can you expect to pay each time you need to have it done?
Why Paint Your Metal Roof?
Firstly, you need to see why you would have your metal roof painted. The main reason for painting the roof is to add another layer of protection against water, snow, hail, and other kinds of damage that can happen to it. With good roof paint, you can ensure you get the full lifespan out of your metal roof.
Also, many people look to paint their metal roofs in order to make them look cohesive with the rest of their homes. This is important to many people who want to preserve their home’s curb appeal or ensure that it fits in with the rest of the neighborhood in line with their HOA.
What Metal Roof Paints Are Available?
If you are looking to paint your metal roof, you will see there are two main types of paint that are used. These are silicon modified polyester paint (SMP), and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) paint.
SMP paint is a more popular option with homeowners, as it’s a very durable paint. It can pretty much take anything that the weather could throw at it, so your roof will be protected no matter what. It also comes in slightly cheaper than other paints, so if you’re looking to keep your new roof on budget, it will be what you’re looking for. It is worth noting these paints don’t come in as many colors as other types though, so you may not find the shade you are looking for.
PVDF paint gives you access to a large spectrum of colors, so you can pick one that suits your home perfectly. It is able to give you shades that you can’t get in other paints, such as red, greens, and blues. It’s also great for UV protection, as it can retain its shade even in the face of the sun. However, it’s not quite as durable as other paints, and it does end up costing more.
How Long Does Metal Roof Paint Last?
So with this in mind, how long will that metal roof paint last? Typically, the paint you get for your roof will have a warranty, so you can see just how long you can expect from it. Depending on the paint you get, that warranty will guarantee you anywhere from 10 to 40 years.
You will also see that the warranty may cover different things, so make sure you check for this. That can include abrasions, peeling, chipping, faded colors, and cracking.
When To Repaint Your Roof
Now you know what to look for in metal roof paint, you need to know when you should be repainting it. Firstly, if your current roof paint is coming to the end of its lifespan as indicated by the warranty, it’s going to be a good idea to have it repainted.
Also, when you are carrying out your roof inspections, you should be looking for any sign that the paint needs to be redone. That includes any chipping, cracking, peeling, or other damage to the roof paint. If there are gaps in the paint, that leaves the metal roof exposed and potentially could allow moisture in to damage it too.
How Do You Paint A Metal Roof?
When your roof is ready to be painted, there are some things you have to do to ensure you get the best results. Lastly, the roof will need to be prepped. That will include power washing the roof surface, to remove any dirt, moss, and other debris that may have accumulated. This will also be enough to remove any loose old paint. If there is still paint on the surface, a mineral-based solvent will be enough to loosen and remove it.
You will also need to properly remove rust and corrosion, using paint scrapers or abrasive brushes. Once everything has been removed, the roof can then be primed, and then the new metal roof paint is applied. This can be done via roller, or with a spray.
Can You Paint Your Own Metal Roof?
There’s no doubt that keeping your roof in top condition is expensive, and you want to be able to save money where you can. Are you able to paint your own metal roof?
You certainly can find guides online that show you how the process is done, and someone with some good DIY experience should be able to do it. However, it’s usually advised that you hire experienced roofers to handle the process for you.
This is for a couple of different reasons. Firstly, when dealing with your roof safety should always come first. No matter how careful you are, you are up high when working on your roof and accidents can happen. If you hire a roofer to handle the job for you, you will be able to take advantage of all of the experience and safety equipment, so they can do the job safely and efficiently.
Secondly, like with all home improvements, it is usually better to have an experienced roofer handle this job because they have the know-how to get it done in the most effective manner. With a roofer, the painting will be done right the first time and you will get the full benefit of that roof coating.
Conclusion
Painting your metal roof is always advisable, as it helps improve the look of your home as well as protect the roof from the elements. With most roof paints having quite long warranties, you can be sure that once the paint is on, it will protect your roof for a long time.
