How to Paint a Roof: 6 Key Steps

How to Paint a Roof: 6 Key Steps

roof inspection

1. Roof Inspection

Alright, before you even think about slapping some paint on that roof, you’ve got to give it a good once-over. 

A proper roof inspection can save you a heap of money and stress down the line. Think of it as preventative medicine for your house. 

What are you looking for?

  • Cracked or Missing Tiles/Shingles: This can easily be missed from the ground. Get up there and have a good look. Any that are cracked, chipped, or missing need replacing.
  • Rust: Check any metal parts – flashings around chimneys, vents, etc. Rust is like a cancer for metal; you need to deal with it before it spreads.
  • Moss or Algae Growth: This stuff isn’t just ugly; it can trap moisture and damage your roof over time. Plus, paint won’t stick to it properly.
  • Loose or Damaged Mortar: If you have a tiled roof, check the mortar between the tiles. If it’s crumbling or missing, water can get in and cause serious problems.
  • Termites: Give the supporting timbers a good look. Termites can weaken the structure of your roof, which is a major issue.

If you’re not comfortable climbing up on the roof yourself, get a professional in. It’s worth the money for the peace of mind. They’ll be able to spot things you might miss and give you a proper assessment of the roof’s condition. Plus, they’ll have the right safety gear. 

cleaning a roof at heights

2. Cleaning the Roof

Now comes the less glamorous but super important part: cleaning. A clean roof is vital for the paint to stick properly and last. 

How you clean your roof depends on what sort of condition it’s in. If it’s a relatively new roof or one that’s been well-maintained, a good blast with a pressure washer might be all you need. But if you’re dealing with years of built-up grime, moss, or algae, you’ll need to get a bit more serious.

For roofs with a bit more going on, consider a biocidal wash. You can spray it on, let it sit overnight, and it’ll kill off any fungal growth. A file brush can also be handy for getting into those tight spots and joints to remove stubborn dirt. Just be careful not to damage the roofing material itself.

Here’s a basic rundown:

  1. Clear away any loose debris: Leaves, branches, bird droppings – get rid of the big stuff first. A broom or leaf blower works well. This prevents paint peeling later on.
  2. Pressure wash (if appropriate): If your roof is suitable for pressure washing, use a wide nozzle and keep a safe distance to avoid damaging the surface. Start at the top and work your way down.
  3. Apply a cleaning solution: For stubborn stains or growth, use a roof cleaner or a mix of water and bleach (be careful with bleach and always follow safety precautions!). Apply with a garden sprayer and let it sit for the recommended time.
  4. Rinse thoroughly: Make sure to rinse away all traces of the cleaning solution. You don’t want any residue interfering with the paint.

Once you’re done cleaning, let the roof dry completely before moving on to the next step. This might take a day or two, depending on the weather. 

3. Repairing Roof Damage

Okay, so you’ve had a good look at your roof and, surprise, surprise, there’s some damage. Don’t stress; it happens. Before you even think about slapping on some paint, you gotta fix that stuff up. 

Repairing any existing damage is crucial for ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of your roof painting project.

First things first, have a good look. What kind of damage are we talking about? Cracked tiles? Missing shingles? Rusty metal? Sagging sections? Make a list, grab your tools, and let’s get to it.

  • Cracked or Missing Tiles/Shingles: This is the most common issue. Water can seep in through even the smallest cracks, causing bigger problems down the line. Replace any broken or missing tiles or shingles ASAP. You can usually find replacements at your local hardware store. Make sure you get the right type and colour to match your existing roof.
  • Rust: If you’ve got metal roofing or metal components (like vents or flashing), check for rust. Treat any rust spots with a wire brush to remove the loose stuff, then apply a rust converter and a coat of metal primer before painting. This will stop the rust from spreading and give you a nice, smooth surface to paint.
  • Sagging: Sagging can indicate a more serious structural problem. If you notice any significant sagging, it’s best to call in a professional. This could be a sign of water damage, rot, or even termite infestation, and you don’t want to mess around with that stuff yourself.

It might seem like a pain, but taking the time to repair any damage before painting will save you a lot of headaches (and money) in the long run. 

4. Applying Primer

Okay, so you’ve got a clean and repaired roof. Now it’s time for primer! Think of primer as the unsung hero of roof painting. It’s the foundation that helps your paint stick better, last longer, and look its best. Plus, it helps to block any stains from bleeding through, especially on older roofs.

Choosing the right primer is important. You’ll want to go for one that’s specifically designed for roofs and compatible with the type of paint you’re planning to use. Acrylic primers are a pretty safe bet for most situations, but always double-check the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Application-wise, an airless sprayer is your best mate here. It’ll give you a nice, even coat without too much fuss. Just make sure you’ve got good ventilation and you’re wearing the right safety gear – you don’t want to be breathing in those fumes! If you don’t have a sprayer, a roller will do the trick, but it’ll take a bit longer, and you might need to apply a thicker coat.

Before you start slapping on the primer, give the tin a good stir. Then, apply a thin, even coat across the entire roof surface. Don’t go too heavy, or you’ll end up with drips and runs. Pay special attention to any edges, corners, or tricky spots. Once you’re done, let the primer dry completely before moving on to the paint. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times – it usually takes a few hours, but it can vary depending on the weather.

Applying primer is a step you don’t want to skip. It does make a difference in the long run, both in terms of the look and the longevity of your roof paint job.

applying roof primer - choosing the right roof paint

5. Choosing the Right Roof Paint

Okay, so you’ve got a clean and prepped roof, ready for some colour! But hold your horses, mate. Picking the right paint is super important. It’s not just about the colour; it’s about protection and how long it’ll last. 

Types of Roof Paint

There are a bunch of different types of roof paint out there, and it can be a bit confusing. Acrylic paints are generally a good all-rounder, especially water-based acrylics. They’re flexible, which is good for roofs that expand and contract with the weather. Then you’ve got elastomeric paints, which are super stretchy and great for roofs with lots of small cracks. And don’t forget epoxy paints, which are tough as nails but can be a bit trickier to apply.

Colour Considerations

Dark colours look great, sure, but they also absorb a lot more heat. That means your house will get hotter in the summer, and your air conditioner will be working overtime. Lighter colours reflect more sunlight, keeping your house cooler and saving you money on energy bills. Plus, some paints have special reflective properties that can reduce heat buildup even further. It’s worth thinking about!

Factors to Consider

Before you grab the first tin you see, think about these things:

  • Your roof material: Is it tile, metal, or something else? Different materials need different types of paint.
  • The weather: If you live in an area with lots of rain, you’ll want a super waterproof paint. If it’s always sunny, look for something with UV protection.
  • Your budget: Roof paint can be expensive, but it’s worth spending a bit more for quality. Cheaper paints might not last as long, and you’ll end up having to repaint sooner.

Where to Buy

You can get roof paint from pretty much any hardware store or paint supplier. Bunnings or Resene’s is always a good bet – don’t be afraid to ask for help! The staff there should be able to point you in the right direction and help you choose the best paint for your roof.

6. Applying Roof Paint

Alright, you’ve prepped, primed, and picked your paint. Now for the fun part – actually painting the roof! This is where all your hard work pays off, but it’s also where you need to be the most careful. 

The key to a great finish is even application and not rushing the job.

  • Make sure the weather is still playing nice. You don’t want to be caught out by a sudden downpour.
  • Double-check that you’ve got all your safety gear on. Seriously, don’t skip this step.
  • Have a plan for how you’re going to move around the roof safely. Think about where you’ll put your ladder and how you’ll avoid walking on wet paint.

There are a couple of ways to apply roof paint, and each has its pros and cons. Let’s have a look.

Roller Application

Using a roller is a pretty common way to paint a roof, especially for DIYers. It’s relatively easy to get the hang of, and you don’t need any fancy equipment. However, it can be a bit slow-going, especially on larger roofs. For different surfaces, it’s a good idea to use different-width rollers.

Tips:

  • Choose the right roller. A long-handled roller will save your back, and a thick nap will hold more paint.
  • Load the roller evenly. Don’t overload it, or you’ll end up with drips and runs.
  • Apply the paint in even strokes. Overlap each stroke slightly to avoid missed spots.
  • Work in small sections. This will help you maintain a wet edge and avoid lap marks.

Spray Application

Spraying is much faster than rolling, which makes it a good option for larger roofs or if you’re short on time. It also gives an even finish. The downside is that you’ll need to invest in a paint sprayer, and there’s a bit of a learning curve involved. Plus, you need to be extra careful about overspray.

Here’s what you need to know:

  • Use the right sprayer. An airless sprayer is generally the best option for roof painting.
  • Thin the paint if necessary. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct thinning ratio.
  • Hold the sprayer at a consistent distance from the roof. About 30cm is usually a good starting point.
  • Overlap each pass by about 50%. This will ensure even coverage.
  • Move at a steady pace. Don’t go too fast, or you’ll end up with thin spots. Don’t go too slow, or you’ll get runs.

Drying and Second Coat

Once you’ve applied the first coat, let it dry completely before applying a second coat. Check the paint can for the recommended drying time – it’ll usually be at least 24 hours. The second coat will give you better coverage and protection. After the second coat, you might want to wash down the roof to remove any surface surfactant.

And that’s it! Stand back and admire your handiwork. You’ve just given your roof a new lease of life.

Wrapping It Up

So there you have it: painting your roof isn’t just about slapping on some colour. It’s a whole process that starts with a good inspection and ends with a solid finish. If you follow these steps, you’ll not only make your roof look great but also help it last longer.

Whether you’re doing it yourself or getting some pros in like calling the RCS Painting team, just remember to take your time and do it right. A well-painted roof can boost your home’s appeal and protect it from the elements. 

Helpful Guides

Resene Guide – Materials to Use
NZ Roofing Association – Code of Practice

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do before painting my roof?
Start by inspecting your roof for any damage or wear. Check both the inside and outside to see if any issues need fixing.

How do I clean my roof before painting?
You can use a pressure washer to remove dirt and debris. If there is mould or algae, a special cleaning solution can help remove it.

What types of roof damage should I look for?
Look for broken tiles, loose shingles, or any signs of leaks. It’s important to fix these problems before you start painting.

Why is primer important when painting a roof?
Primer helps the paint stick better and can improve the finish. It also helps to cover any stains or imperfections.

How do I choose the right paint for my roof?
Select a paint that is designed for roofs. Look for options that are weather-resistant and suitable for the material of your roof.

What is the best way to apply roof paint?
You can use a roller or a sprayer for an even coat. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.