Like anything else subjected to direct sunlight, metal roofs can fade over time. Contrary to popular belief, metal roofing can be painted just like any other type of material. In fact, by following the proper protocols, you can get even better results than you would’ve hoped. However, despite this, the process itself can still be a bit confusing. So, use these tips on how to paint a metal roof to complete your project in a timely and effective manner.
Prepare the Roof Beforehand
First, make sure you take the time to prepare your roof for the painting process. This step is crucial because it ensures that all older materials have been removed, increasing the chances of your paint drying correctly. Some vital things to do during this time include scraping away any old paint, removing rust, and power washing the exposed metal. Once all this is complete and dry, you’re officially ready to proceed.
Wait for Nice Weather
After your prep work, you may also want to consider waiting a few days for the weather to cooperate. Painting when it’s damp or rainy outside might be a great time to plan home improvements, but painting while it’s damp will prevent the product from drying and curing properly to the metal surface. As such, you want to only perform this task during a period without moisture. So, pay close attention to your local forecast and plan your next steps wisely.
Apply a Primer First
Another important tip on how to paint a metal roof is to always apply a primer before your paint. Since metal itself isn’t very porous, it’s hard for paint alone to stick to it and last. Primers, however, are used to create the proper surface for painting. Not only will this product protect the metal from the elements, but it will also create a slightly more absorbent area for the paint to dry on.
Use the Right Paint Product
Finally, purchase the right type of paint product. Not all paint is made the same. As such, some will adhere to a metal surface better than others. For this reason, it’s recommended that you find a product with the proper ingredients. In this case, acrylic latex paints are considered to work the best because they’re better at locking onto something with a non-porous texture.
For more advice on how to paint your metal roof, or if you’d like to install a metal roof on your home, reach out to American Metal Roofs of Northern Wisconsin. As an experienced roofing company in Wisconsin, we specialize in all services pertaining to the installation and care of metal roofing materials. Therefore, we’re confident that we would make a wonderful resource for you as you pursue one of these projects. Choosing a metal roof contractor needs careful consideration. Contact us today to learn more.