Corrugated metal sheets are a widely utilised construction material throughout the roofing industry. This highly versatile roofing solution is perfect for a wide range of structures, from warehouses and commercial buildings to barns, stables and even residential projects.
Corrugated metal roofs offer impressive levels of durability, resilience and strength. To extend this lifespan, maximise structural stability and give your roof a professional finish, it is a good idea to protect it with a good quality paint.
What’s the Best Paint for a Corrugated Metal Roof?
If you’re painting corrugated iron, it is key to pick the best kind of paint for the job. Different kinds of paint are formulated for different kinds of materials and structures, so you need to evaluate which formulation is best for your roof.
As a basic starting point, corrugated metal sheets typically require the usage of acrylic based paints, which are graded as suitable for exterior use. This type of paint is perfect for refreshing an old, worn roof and making it look brand new again. #4-metal DTM
Within this base formulation, you need to look out for certain properties which will help to maximise the performance and resilience of your roof. These factors include:
- UV Protection – The sun’s rays are a fundamental issue for the condition of your corrugated metal roof. Pick a high-quality UV resistant paint that won’t be prone to cracking, flaking and fading when consistently exposed to UV rays.
- Coverage Area – To practically cover an entire roof space, it is key to ensure your chosen paint has enough coverage to complete the job with leftover product for future touch-ups.
- Weather Resilience – Your corrugated metal roof will be exposed to all kinds of adverse conditions. It is key to pick a type of paint that can withstand varying temperatures and environments throughout the winter and summer months without succumbing to breakage, cracking and damage.
- Waterproofing – Finding a paint with good quality water resistance will help to lessen the chance of pooling, leakages and water damage. Or can be overcoated with a waterproofing paint #superlaycryl #superlaykold #hydroproof
- Ease of Application – For DIYers especially, picking a paint with easy application will make the job run far smoother and quicker with less mess and turnaround.
- Affordability – A high-quality paint does not have to break the bank. There are a range of more affordable options out there that still provide good levels of protection and durability.
- Chemical Composure – If possible, opting for a paint that is low in odour and free of toxic materials will greatly benefit your surrounding environment.
If you are unsure about whether your chosen paint is suitable for your roofing structure, it is always advised to seek advice and guidance from a professional or manufacturer.
Which Colour is Right for Me?
Specialist paints for metal roofing are generally available to purchase in a multitude of different colours. As well as visual appeal, the colour that you go for may also have an impact on the practicality and performance of your roof. For example, light colours are far better at reflecting sunlight, which can help to create a more energy-efficient and cooler environment. Darker shades tend to absorb the sun’s heat, which means the building beneath may be warmer.
The total cost of painting a corrugated metal roof will depend on certain factors such as overall roof coverage, type of paint used as well and preparation required. 4-metal DTM offer a 4-in-1 solution: direct to rust, metal, a primer, and topcoat with high coverage and good hiding properties.
How to Prepare a Corrugated Roof for Painting
For a smooth application, you need to ensure the roof space is correctly prepped and ready. The very first step to this is:
- Cleaning
Before applying any paint, you must give your roof a thorough clean, removing all possible traces of grime, grease, oil, rust, debris and dirt build-up. For this, you can simply use a brush and mild cleaning agent. Mix 1 tablespoon of dish soap with 1 gallon of water in a bucket to create a soap solution. Then, hose down the roof surface with clean water and dip a brush or rag into the solution and begin scrubbing. Remove the dirt, then rinse the metal using the hose once again once finished.
Alternatively, you could also use a high-pressure power washer, then use a brush to finish off any tough areas.
- Mould & Mildew
To tackle areas of mould and mildew, use a wire brush with a solution of chlorinated bleach and warm water. Always remember to wear adequate protective gear, such as a breathing mask and gloves, when working with bleach. Carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions and research the products you are using to ensure they are safe for the purpose.
- Rust
Rust is not uncommon on metal roofing. You can easily remove surface rust by scrubbing with a wire brush and sanding with (i.e. 200-grit) dry sandpaper. Any leftover rust can be neutralised by coating the section with a coating with rust inhibitor properties. [#4-metal DTM]
- Degreaser
If your roof is less than a year old, first treating it with a metal degreaser will help the paint bond better to the surface for a higher-quality finish.
- Prepping the Area
To protect the surrounding area from splashes and mess, lay down a tarp or other protective material.