3 Easy Steps on How To Paint Your Roof

A corrugated metal roof is an excellent, hard-wearing choice for many DIY projects such as outhouses and sheds. To get the best results and maintain its condition, you need to protect the metal with a layer of paint. If you choose the correct paint and apply it correctly, a single paint treatment will provide up to 10 years of protection so it's worth your while doing the job thoroughly by following these simple steps.

Step 1: Clean Roof

Before applying a new coat of paint, you need to get rid of any debris and dirt build-up that already exists. If your metal roof is located underneath trees, it will most likely have quite a high build-up of dirt and it's recommended that you periodically clean the roof after you have painted it so that it is maintained in a good condition. Depending on your climate, you may also get mold and mildew forming on the roof that needs to be removed. Use a power washer to clean the roof and get rid of any flakes of rust. For stubborn rust patches, you may need to use a wire brush. Next, use a solution of chlorinated bleach, warm water and T.S.P. To clean the roof and remove any mildew spores. Leave the roof to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Apply Primer

Use a galvanized metal primer to prepare the surface for painting. These primers are usually solvent based although some acrylic based varieties are available. Speak to one of our Staff Online for advice. Apply the coat of primer according to Medal Paints instructions and allow it to dry completely before applying the first of the top paint coats. While you are applying the primer and paint, take care not to overstretch if you are on a ladder. If the roof is strong enough to take your weight, always make sure that you are aware of where the edges are to help prevent an accident.

Step 3: Apply Paint

The type of paint you use for the top coats on your roof will depend on the weather conditions and roof position. A roof that will be exposed to direct sunlight will perform best with a different paint composition than one in a moist, shaded area. To make the optimum choice for your requirements, you should consult a paint specialist. Before you begin applying the paint, read the manufacturers instructions thoroughly to check the recommended thickness of each paint coating. You will normally need to apply two coats of paint to achieve the manufacturer's recommendation. Leave the paint to dry completely between coats. In shaded areas, this may take up to 72 hours. Don't begin to paint the roof if rain is expected within 24 hours or if temperatures will be likely to dip below 20 degrees C during any stage of the painting and drying process.