Applying metal roof paint these days is generally a simple task if you have the right equipment and know-how. There are also some specially formulated good quality long lasting acrylic roof coatings available that can be easily brushed, rolled or sprayed onto new metal roofing without a primer, although it may be necessary to ensure new roofing has properly “weathered” before the paint is applied. Generally, a roof that has been “weathered” will help the paint to adhere and bond better than a shiny new metallic roof. If unsure it is suggested you seek professional advice.
If you are thinking about painting a metal roof there are a number of techniques and tips that can be followed to ensure a good job –
- Before starting ensure you have a good pair of rubber soled shoes and preferably a long handled brush if you are not spray painting as this will avoid you having to bend down and will help alleviate the pressure on your knees while kneeling on the roof itself if you intend to use the basic hand paint brush
- Stir the metal paint thoroughly before use and intermittently during application
- Do not apply paint to the roof when there is rain threatening and do not paint over condensation
- Ensure the paint is applied when the temperature is not too hot or too cold. For example the general rule of thumb is to NOT to apply metal paint when the temperatures are below 40 degree F or above 80 degree F.
- Thoroughly clean the roof surface to be painted by using a water blaster if necessary to clean off any flaky paint and dirt or grime.
- It is important to pay close attention to any rust areas which should be removed by using a wire brush or metal scraper. If rust is still present after cleaning it can be spot primed with a good red oxide primer.
When applying metal spray paint to a piece of furniture ensure the paint you are going to use is meant to be used on a metal surface. A gloss enamel with a built in sealer primer would be my preference as this type of paint is best to protect the surface from corrosion.
When applying the paint from a can make sure it is shaken vigorously for about a minute or two and spray a sample onto some paper to check if it comes out properly before commencing.
Before you begin using your metal spray paint ensure you cover everything that could be accidentally sprayed with an old sheet or curtain type material. Lastly, use masking tape to cover any hinges, knobs or other parts that require protection. Prepare the surface by sanding away any signs of rust or paint and fill in any uneven areas of the surface with polyester fill then sand down to make the surface smooth and even. You are now ready to use your metal spray paint. As a rule, to get an even spread across the surface to be sprayed you should stand at least a foot away from the furniture.
Spray in an even pattern until the surface is completely covered. It is important to keep spraying a fine mist and not to stop. A second coat can then be applied if considered necessary.
Any hard to get at parts of the furniture item should be done at the same time. When the job has been completed the metal spray paint should be allowed to dry completely before the masking tape is removed and parts of the furniture are reassembled.
Before applying metal paint it is common to use a good quality primer or sealer to stop any future problem with corrosion. Some very good metallic paints that are available today have built in primer.
Paint for metal is necessary because without this protection metallic objects when exposed to a harsh environment will corrode and rust very quickly. For example, a metal roof that is on a home by the seaside will be exposed to the ravages of sea spray and will corrode very rapidly. Paint for metal has advanced rapidly in recent years however unless the surface is prepared properly the paint will not protect the metal that has been painted.
If a poorly prepared roof with flecks of rust is painted over with metal paint it will not take long for the rust to bubble to the surface, no matter how good the metal paint is.
To avoid rust problems getting out of hand on any surface it is therefore important to always put the effort in early by taking steps to remove it completely by either using a metal brush or scraper. If any holes need to be repaired that are caused by the decay, they can be filled in with a filler and sanded to a smooth surface if necessary.
