Learn how recoating your metal roof can save your building with Louisiana Roof Crafters. When it comes to metal roofs, the most commonly used materials are aluminum, copper, steel, and zinc. Each material has its own optimal finish. A good thing about these roofs is that instead of replacing your old and worn-out metal roof, recoating it can be a more cost-effective, quick, and safer option.
With that in mind, our experts have compiled this guide to help you find out if recoating or a total replacement is suitable for your metal roof and the advantages of using different types of coatings.
Identify the Underlying Roof Issues
Before deciding on a metal roof coating, consider the reason for recoating. Are you looking to improve the appearance or is there an underlying issue with your roof’s functionality? To ensure the best results, you need to identify any problem areas and address them before proceeding with the coating. This may involve making repairs or replacing parts of the roof to prevent future issues.
Once all repairs or replacements have been completed, the contractor will carry out an adhesion test on a small portion of your roof. This test will determine if the selected coating will effectively adhere to the panels.
Professionals will thoroughly clean and dry your metal roof to ensure proper adhesion. In some cases, they may also apply a rust-inhibitive primer. Once these steps have been completed successfully, your roof will be ready for recoating. Make sure to choose a day with a warm temperature, as most metal roof protective coatings have a minimum temperature required for proper application.
- Copper
When it comes to copper roofs, there are several finish options to choose from. The quality and longevity will depend on the composition of the copper and any chemicals that have been applied to the roof after installation. Three commonly used sealants for copper roofs include:
- Acrylic: It is a durable option but comes at a higher cost
- Nitrocellulose: A budget-friendly option but requires annual reapplication;
- Silicone: A slightly more expensive than nitrocellulose but it is highly effective in preventing corrosion.
- Aluminum
Before painting your aluminum roof, make sure that the product you choose is specifically designed for use on aluminum. Additionally, there are several other factors to consider when making your decision. Let’s take a look at each one of these.
- The type of paint: The type of paint that is best for aluminum roofs is oil-based. However, some acrylic primers and paints can also work well with chalky aluminum, as long as they are specifically formulated for use on aluminum.
- The Color: The color of the paint is another important consideration. Aluminum paint comes in a wide range of colors. Moreover, these colors can even be customized to match the specific color of your building.
- Intended use: Another factor to consider is the intended use of the paint. If your roof does not have a cool coating, it can become uncomfortably warm during the summer. To combat this, consider choosing a cooling color that will increase the reflectivity of your roof.
Resistance: Finally, it is essential to consider the level of resistance to mold, algae, and mildew that the paint offers. Mold growth can make a roof look unsightly and older, and it can also be a significant allergen. To ensure that your roof remains in good condition, it is essential to choose a paint that is resistant to these microbial growths.
- Steel
The corrosion of steel roofs is a natural phenomenon. For this reason, these roofs need specialized coating. Two of the most commonly used types of steel roofs are galvalume and galvanized. The distinction between them lies in the protective coating they come with. Galvanized steel is coated with zinc to inhibit corrosion, while galvalume utilizes a combination of aluminum and zinc for enhanced protection against harsh weather conditions.
- Zinc
Zinc roofing is known for its exceptional longevity. With some minimal maintenance, zinc roofs can last over a hundred years. Its durability is mainly due to its ability to form a patina immediately after being exposed to the elements. This patina acts as a natural protective barrier, eliminating the need for additional coatings.
Top benefits of Recoating a Metal Roof
- Recoating is quicker than replacing the roof
- Reduced risk of accidents
- Produces less dust and debris
- Minimal disruption to business operations
- Does not expose the building to leaks
- You can change the color without replacing the entire roof.
Looking For a New Roof? Get In Touch
Call Louisiana Roof Crafters at 225-238-6396 for more information. We service areas in Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, Hammond, Covington, Mandeville, Slidell, and New Orleans, LA.
