Painting a steel roof

Once in a few years it’s good to paint your steel roof to maintain it in a good shape and also retain the appearance. Paint protects the roof from rust and discoloration. If the job is doe properly, then it should last for years.

The tools and materials that you will be needing are the following:

Wire brush
Putty knife
2500-3500psi powered pressure washer
Trisodium phosphate cleanser
Paint rollers
Metal primer
Roof brush
Top coat paint
Ladder
Soldering torch
Breathing mask
Safety harness

Cleaning

Cleaning the roof is vital for a good paint job. Remove the peeling paint using a putty knife or a wire brush. Clean any traces of dirt that have accumulated in crevices. Rusty areas need to be scrapped with a wire brush. Then sweep all the debris off the roof.

Roof inspection

Now after the roof has been cleaned, you can have a better look at it. Look for damaged and stained surfaces. Try and remove the stains before the paint job. Use bleach.

Cleansers

Black stains can sometimes result from mildew. It grows thanks to the accumulation of dirt and moisture. Use bleach to get rid of the mildew stains. Use trisodium phosphate cleansers with a sponge and apply them on the affected areas. It will also kill any algae and remove all traces of grease.

Power wash

Clean the entire roof of any residual cleaning products and dust with a power washing machine. Rinse all traces of detergent or cleaning agent. Leave the roof to dry.

Repairs

All cracks and leaking areas should be repaired before the paint job. Use similar materials to patch up the damaged areas. Use a soldering torch to firmly attach the new pieces of roofing material.

Primer

Now you will need to apply a coat of galvanized metal primer. Use a spray painter or a roller. This coat will protect your roof against rust. Work from the highest parts and then move downwards.

Painting the roof

Now all you have to do is apply a couple of layers of paint. 2 coats are usually enough. It will offer a great look and also extra protection.

Always when you are working on the roof, have someone with you as a help. Also use a safety harness, and special gear.