Roof painting and repainting are integral to maintaining the beauty and integrity of your home. Yet before you invest in a ladder and pick up a brush or paint sprayer, there are a few things you need to know about painting roof tiles. This comprehensive guide covers the ins and outs of roof painting. We’ll discuss why painting your roof tiles is essential and the steps taken to paint a roof, from preparing the surface to choosing the right products. If you’re considering painting your roof tiles, this guide is a must-read!
Table of Contents
- Why is painting and repainting your roof necessary?
- Should you replace gutters when undertaking roof painting?
- What type of paint should you use on roof tiles?
- Choose the right colour
- Clean the tiles
- Assess the roof's condition
- Repoint the roof
- Apply a primer coat
- Paint the roof tiles in two or three generous coats
- Let the paint dry completely before walking on it or using the roof
- Enjoy your newly painted roof!
Why is painting and repainting your roof necessary?
Should you replace gutters when undertaking roof painting?
Quite often when a roof system has reached a point in time where roof restoration or roof painting is needed the gutter system may also be in need of repair or gutter replacement. It’s a great Idea to undertake a gutter replacement at this point for several reasons. The first of which being, on a tiled roof the gutter installers often need to push up and move around roof tiles in order to allow access to the gutter and fascias, especially at the hip ends. By undertaking the gutter replacement before the tiled roof has been painted and pointed we aren’t damaging work that has already been done and effectively doing things twice. Its also a good point to note that the cleaning process of an old roof surface is quite messy and contains a lot of debris. By cleaning before gutter replacement has been done we are able to rinse all debris into the old gutter without the need to clean them out as they will shortly be replaced.
What type of paint should you use on roof tiles?
There are many types of roofing paints on the market, and not all are created equal. When selecting a paint for your roof tiles, be sure to choose a product that is specifically designed for use on the type of tile you have. Products tailored specifically to your particular kind of roof tile, be it concrete, slate, or terracotta, will offer the best results and longest-lasting protection. If you need help determining what kind of paint to use, consult a professional roofing contractor, specialist, or the manufacturer of your roof tiles.
As a Dulux certified applicator, roof painting services performed by Oz-Roof are accompanied by the full Dulux 15 years warranty. We only use the best products on the market, and our team is highly trained to carry out any roof painting job, big or small. With Oz-roof, you can even opt for an option from the Dulux Heat reflective Cool Roof Residential range to further reduce the temperature of your home during Adelaide’s blazing summers and help keep your energy bills down.
Choose the right colour
Choosing the right paint can be daunting, especially when standing in front of a display of hundreds of different colours. However, you can keep a few things in mind that will help you narrow your choices and find the perfect shade for your home’s roof.
- Consider the colour of your home’s exterior: Ideally, the colour of your roof should complement the rest of your house, not clash with it.
- Take into account your neighbourhood: If most of the houses in your community have red roofs, there may be better ideas than painting yours green. You want your home to fit in, not stick out like a sore thumb.
- Analyse your home’s architectural style: A Victorian house, for example, would look odd with a bright yellow roof. However, a more contemporary home might benefit from a pop of colour.
- Be mindful of your climate: Light colours reflect heat and help keep your home cooler if you live in a hot environment. Dark colours absorb heat and help keep your home warmer in a cold climate.
Clean the tiles
Assess the roof's condition
Before painting, it’s crucial to inspect your roof and make sure it’s in good condition. If there are any cracked or missing tiles, these need to be replaced before you start painting. Painting over cracked tiles will not fix them and will only result in an uneven finish. Likewise, if there are any areas of moss or algae growth, these need to be removed before painting. You can use a pressure washer or a stiff brush to remove moss and algae.
Repoint the roof
Apply a primer coat
Applying a primer coat before painting roof tiles can help the paint adhere better and last longer. The roof is constantly exposed to the elements, so choosing a paint that can withstand the rigours of the job is essential. A primer coat helps to create a barrier between the roof tiles and the paint and helps to fill in any cracks or imperfections on the roof’s surface, ensuring that the paint will have a smooth surface to adhere to and won’t be able to seep through any cracks or crevices. In addition, a primer coat can also help to prevent fading, chipping, and peeling. When applied correctly, a primer coat can extend the life of your roof painting project.
Paint the roof tiles in two or three generous coats
Painting roof tiles is more complex than slapping on a coat of paint. To achieve optimal results, applying two or three thin coats is essential. This ensures that each tile is adequately covered and the paint will adhere properly. Additionally, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next is critical. These steps can help ensure that your roof looks great for years, not months.
Let the paint dry completely before walking on it or using the roof
After you paint the roof, you’ll need to let the paint dry before you can walk on it or use the roof. The best way to ensure the paint dries completely is to wait at least 24 hours after painting before you step on the roof or use it. In addition, if you’re planning on painting the roof yourself, follow all instructions carefully and always wear protective gear, such as gloves, a respirator, and eye protection. Taking these precautions can help ensure that your roof looks its best and lasts for years to come.
Enjoy your newly painted roof!
One of the best parts about owning a home is making it your own. Whether you choose a bright, bold colour or a more subdued shade, a painted roof can make your house feel truly special. Plus, well-applied coats of paint are a proven way to protect your roof from the elements and extend its lifespan. If you’re unsure of which roofing service is right for your home, be sure to read our informative article ‘Roof Restoration vs Roof Sealing vs Roof painting explained’.
So, there you have it! Six simple steps to painting your roof and achieving a beautiful finish that will last for years. If you would like help with this process, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly Oz-roof team today. We are happy to assist homeowners throughout Adelaide in getting the most out of their roofs – whether that means repairing damage, installing new tiles or coating an existing surface with paint. Give us a call today and let us know how we can help you achieve your home improvement goals!
-The Oz Roof Team
