Can you paint a metal roof? Experts warn this could make or break your ‘worthy’ DIY efforts

Metal roofs can look a little mundane, which begs the question: Can you paint a metal roof?

The good news is that you can paint it, and experts, in fact, recommend it to protect the material and improve the energy efficiency insulation for your home. However, they warn that you'll need to pick the right day, and have the right tools, supplies, and safety equipment to make sure your efforts aren't in vain.

Here, contractors break down the pros and cons of painting a metal roof and what you need to know before diving into this practical way to upgrade your curb appeal in a weekend.

Can you paint a metal roof?

The short answer is yes, you can paint a metal roof as long as you do it right.

Constantine Anest, owner of Ethos Roofing & Restoration, explains, ‘Yes, a metal roof can be painted, and in some cases, it’s definitely worth doing, as a high-quality paint job will at least protect the metal from corrosion and extend the roof’s lifespan.

'If you choose the right paint, you can also reduce heat absorption, improving the energy efficiency of the house.’

The good news is that painting a metal roof is a great exterior DIY project, adds Carr Lanphier, contractor and CEO of Improovy. He explains, ‘I would say this is a doable DIY task, but if you have any concerns about being up on the roof or are uncertain about the process, it may be a household project you shouldn’t DIY, and it’s worth hiring a professional to get it done quickly and well.

'Mostly, I would recommend picking the right materials and essential DIY tools before you start. You want to choose a primer and a paint that are going to work well together, and that are both rated for use on metal and for outdoor use.’

The top-rated APOC Reflective Roof Coating from Lowes is a great place to start for paint, aiding with drainage while extending the lifespan of your roof.

Before starting such a mammoth task, it is worth making sure you have enough time, energy, and motivation to finish your home DIY projects, too. Nothing looks worse than a half-painted roof.

What to consider before painting a metal roof

Painting a metal roof is not the same as painting a wall. You need the correct tools and safety equipment.

Robert O’Sullivan, founder of Ranch Roofing says, ‘When painting a metal roof, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, check the weather – you’ll want a dry, mild day so the paint dries evenly and doesn’t peel later.

‘Next, choose the right paint for the job. Look for acrylic or oil-based paints specifically designed for metal roofs, and consider “cool roof” coatings if you want to reflect more sunlight and save on energy bills.'

The APOC Silver Aluminum Reflective Roof Coating, from Lowes, is, as the name suggests, reflective, helping to lower indoor heating costs in peak summer. It can also help to limit corrosion to extend the life of your roofing.

Robert continues, ‘Prepare the surface by removing dirt, rust, and old paint. A bonus tip is to use a primer to help the paint adhere better. Do not forget to inspect and fix any potential roof damage or rust spots before you start painting.'

While you are up there, this is a good time to clean gutters using an extending gutter cleaning brush from Walmart to protect your roofing from water damage in the future. This telescopic wand brush from Walmart connects to your hosepipe to help make cleaning a roof a little simpler than scrubbing with a sponge and bucket.

Finally, Robert adds, ‘Here's a trick – Apply two thin coats instead of one thick layer for even drying and durability. A properly painted metal roof can last 10 to 15 years before needing a new coat.’

Roof painting essentials

FAQs

Can you paint over an already painted metal roof?

While you can paint over an already painted metal roof, you will need to clean it and sand it to ensure the new coat sticks. It's a good idea to prime again to block out any of the old color and to provide an extra layer of protection against future damage, including rust.

Will painting a metal roof stop leaks?

Painting a metal roof will not stop leaks. Common leaks need to be repaired properly by a professional before you can paint over them, or the problem will return and likely continue to get worse. Painting a metal roof can help prevent leaks in the future, however, by protecting the metal surface from corrosion for longer.

Meet the experts

Constantine Anest

Constantine is the owner of Ethos Roofing & Restoration, a company specializing in residential and commercial roofing services, restoration, and maintenance.

Carr Lanphier

As a paint expert, Carr is clued up on transforming walls, ceilings, roofs and more, whilst staying mindful of budgets.

Bob O’Sullivan

Robert founded Ranch Roofing over 20 years ago, and has grown from providing residential roofing services to homeowners with Ranch-Style homes to servicing all styles of houses in Arlington, Cambridge, Lexington, Newton, and Belmont.

If you do decide to paint a metal roof yourself, following some painting hacks to minimize clean up can help to minimize waste, prevent damage to your home, and keep the process smooth sailing.