Prep Metal Roof For Paint

The first step in painting any metal roof is determining what substrate and existing coatings you are dealing with.

Prep metal roof for paint. Galvanized metal roofs are coated with a layer of zinc that inhibits rust. Unfortunately over time this coating can fail leading to minor rust outbreaks. There are several different types of metals used in roofing applications. To make the most of your investment it s important to plan ahead for the metal roof installation process.

Rinse and let the metal dry. Metal roofing installation prep if you re looking to replace your current roof metal roofing is a durable low maintenance alternative to asphalt shingles. This is a huge factor in what coating system you ll want to use and is critical to determining how to prepare the existing surface. Find either oil based or acrylic based paint at your local home improvement store.

For light rust and small areas use steel wool and 80 to 120 grit sandpaper. Wash the metal thoroughly with a degreasing agent such as trisodium phosphate. Terne is best painted with an oil based paint. One of my neighbors used an oil based paint as a primer since some of the metal was rusted and then covered the roof with one of the specially formulated roofing paints that is sold by calbar for use on old metal roofs for an added layer of protection.

If you are preparing to paint a rusted galvanized metal roof pay special attention to surface preparation or you will have a recurrence of rust and or flaking.