A metal, or Colourbond roof can be an aesthetically appealing and durable choice for homeowners. In recent years becoming increasingly popular in all states of Australia. However, over time, the elements may take their toll on the appearance and condition of the roof. Fading or peeling paint, or perhaps simply the desire for a new colour scheme, may lead some to question whether they can paint their metal roof.
The answer is yes – a metal roof can indeed be painted, or restored and doing so not only adds visual appeal but also extends the life of the roof by protecting the metal itself from the harsh effects of weather. Proper surface preparation, choosing the right paint, and taking note of any manufacturer’s specifications are crucial to ensuring a successful and lasting paint job.
In order to achieve the desired result, it is important to consider several factors before painting a metal roof. These include assessing the condition of the roof, ensuring proper surface cleaning, applying a suitable primer and coating and adhering to all safety guidelines. With proper planning, skill, and attention to detail, painting a metal roof can be an effective way to restore and enhance its appearance and longevity.
Table of Contents
- Why Paint a Metal Roof?
- Types of Paint for Metal Roofs
- Preparation for Painting
- Painting Techniques
- Maintenance of Painted Metal Roof
- Common Mistakes When Painting a Metal Roof
- DIY or Hire a Professional
- Do you live in Adelaide, South Australia? Give Your Adelaide Home a New Look with Expert Metal Roof Painting from Oz-Roof
Why Paint a Metal Roof?
Painting a metal roof serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it improves the aesthetic appeal of the roof, giving it a fresh and attractive finish. A well-maintained roof can increase the overall value of the property as well as its curb appeal.
Secondly, metal roofs are susceptible to corrosion and rust, especially in areas with high humidity and salt content in the air. Applying a protective coating of paint helps create a barrier against these damaging elements, extending the life of the metal roof.
Painting a metal roof also offers energy-saving benefits, as it can prevent heat absorption and regulate the interior temperature of the building. By using light or reflective colours, less heat is absorbed by the roof, resulting in a cooler environment during hot days. This reduces the need for excessive air conditioning and, in turn, lowers energy consumption and costs.
In summary, painting a metal roof provides aesthetic, protective, and energy-saving benefits, making it an investment worth considering for property owners.
Types of Paint for Metal Roofs
When it comes to painting a metal roof, choosing the right product is crucial. The industry leader in Australia for roof coating products is undoubtedly Dulux. The company continually invest millions of dollars in their Acratex Roofing membrane product to further improve its longevity and performance. The company increased their standard warranty period from 10 years to 15 years in 2021, showing such confidence and backing their product for such a long warranty duration. The product is certainly not the cheapest on the market but probably gives the best value when compared to others.
Preparation for Painting
Clean the Roof
Cleaning the roof is the first step in preparing it for painting. Begin by removing dirt, debris, and any mildew or mould. The best and fastest way to clean a roof is with a pressure cleaner. While smaller domestic cleaners are able to do the job its best to use a pressure cleaner with at least 2000psi and preferably much higher. The higher the pressure and flow rate of the machine the faster and better the roof can be cleaned. Following the pressure clean the metal roof should be completely free of moss, lichen and other debris. In many cases the remaining degraded paint surface will be completely removed leaving just the roar Zincalume layer of the metal roof sheet visible.
Painting rusty metal roof sheets
If surface rust is visible on the exterior surface of the roof sheets or rust becomes evident when cleaning the roof, there is a high chance the roof may not be suited to roof painting and may actually require a roof replacement. Top quality roof coating manufacturers like Dulux typically void their warranty in the case of rust roof sheeting. Even when the roof is coated with a rust inhibiting product before restoration the painting of the roof will only be a short term improvement before the rust starts to bleed back through the new coating.
Primer Application
Once the roof is clean and free of loose paint and rust, applying a primer is the final step before colour coating. Choose a primer specifically designed for metal roofs, such as a Dulux Acratex MX primer. An industrial sized airless paint sprayer is used to apply an even coat, following the manufacturer’s recommended coverage rate. Allow the primer to dry completely as per the manufacturer’s guidelines before applying the colour coating.
Painting Techniques
Spray Painting
When spray painting a metal roof surface its best to use a large commercial airless spray gun. A unit with a capacity of at least 30 litres is best and this connected to a hose of around 30 litres will mean no stop starts once roof coating has commenced. For the best finish when painting a metal roof its best to take long strokes on the roof sheeting, with a single stroke and application of paint starting at the ridge line of the roof and not pausing until the entire roof sheet has been coating in a single run, all the way to the gutter.
Brush Painting
Brush painting on a metal roof is really only limited to cutting in of flashings and roof edges. The roof sheeting itself must be spray painted with an airless paint machine in continuous long runs.
Safety Measures
When painting a metal roof, safety should always be a top priority. Follow these guidelines to ensure a safe painting process:
- Wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and a mask to protect against fumes and dust.
- Utilise a sturdy ladder or scaffolding system for safe and secure access to the roof.
- Check the weather forecast before beginning the project and avoid working in wet or windy conditions.
- Be mindful of electrical hazards, such as overhead power lines or exposed wires.
- Stay hydrated and take regular breaks, especially when working in hot weather.
By following these painting techniques and safety measures, you can effectively paint a metal roof with the desired outcome.
Maintenance of Painted Metal Roof
Painting a metal roof is a viable option to prolong its life and improve its appearance. However, proper maintenance is essential for preserving the painted surface and ensuring its longevity. The following paragraphs discuss important aspects of maintaining a painted metal roof.
The amount of maintenance required by the home owner is really directly proportional to the pitch of the roof. For example a roof pitch of 15 degrees or greater will largely clean itself just with rain and wind to remove debris.
Conversely a roof pitch of much lower than 15 degrees may need the home owner to manually remove debris from time to time as the roof is not steep enough to remove them during wind.
Common Mistakes When Painting a Metal Roof
One common mistake when painting a metal roof is selecting the wrong type of paint. For metal roofs, it is essential to choose a paint specifically designed for metal surfaces, such as Dulux Acratex. These types of paints are really more than paints and a referred to as roofing membranes. The ability for the coating to expand and contract with the thermal movement of the roof make the products significantly different from regular house hold paint.
Other common mistakes are not using any or the correct roof primer and coating over rusty roof sheeting. Another fundamental error when painting a metal roof is applying the coating when the roof is either to hot or too cold. Either way the finish can be completely ruined if a roof is not coated when the day time temperature is somewhere between 20 and 30 degrees. These mistakes are nearly always made by the novice home handy man rather than the metal roof painting professional.
DIY or Hire a Professional
Deciding whether to hire a professional or take on a DIY project for painting a metal roof can be a tough choice. Both options have their advantages and challenges. This article will help you weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision.
DIY Approach
Tackling the project yourself allows for more control over the project. By researching and selecting materials and processes on your own, you can ensure that your preferences align with the outcome. The DIY route can also save you money, as professional fees are eliminated.
However, a DIY project hinges on the skills, knowledge, and time commitment required. A lack of experience can lead to mistakes that may require contacting a professional for correction in the end. In addition, proper safety precautions and equipment are essential, as working on a roof can be dangerous.
Hiring a Professional
When you hire a professional, you’re investing in their expertise, experience, and specialised equipment. Professionals are well-versed in the specifics of painting metal roofs, such as the type of paint that works best, the correct surface preparation and techniques for application.
They are also aware of common problems that may arise and how to mitigate them.
One of the main advantages of hiring a professional is that you can expect excellent results with limited mistakes. Their experience and knowledge translate to a high-quality finish that lasts longer. Moreover, they typically offer warranties on their work. Although the costs do tend to be higher, a professional’s work can save you time and effort, and provide a peace of mind.
When comparing both options, it’s important to consider factors like budget, time constraints, and personal skill levels. Assessing the potential risks and benefits will guide you in making the best decision for your metal roof painting project.
Do you live in Adelaide, South Australia? Give Your Adelaide Home a New Look with Expert Metal Roof Painting from Oz-Roof
For reliable metal roof painting Adelaide homeowners trust, consider Oz-Roof. As a local, family-owned business for over 20 years, our experienced team offers flexible appointment times and stands behind our work with a lifetime warranty.
We expertly paint roofs to protect and beautify your home. Homeowners feel confident knowing their roof is in good hands with our attention to detail and full satisfaction guarantee.
Schedule your free quote today to discuss your roof painting options and find a time that works for your schedule. You’ll see why Oz-Roof is the trusted choice for quality work and excellent service. Contact us to get started.
