How to Paint a Galvanized Metal Roof?

A consultation with a roofing contractor is highly advised before undertaking the painting of a galvanized metal roof. Galvanized metal sheets are sheets of metal that have a coating of hot zinc on the outside to protect them from the elements of nature. They are resistant to damage from water and high impact. Like any other painting job it must be ensured that the surface to be painted is absolutely clean.

Take as look at the steps to be followed when painting a galvanized metal sheet.

1. Preparation to paint

Always choose a sunny day to start a roof painting project, with temperature not very high. By placing a ladder next to the wall climb on to the roof safely. Scrape off as much paint as you can, using a putty knife or a paint scraper. After the scrapping is complete, clean the roof with a pressure washer to remove all debris. Remember to remove rust using sandpaper.

2. Remove algae and mildew

The integrity of a galvanized roof gets compromised when algae and mildew are allowed to grow on it. If the problem is allowed to persist, it can lead to a major upheaval expense later on. Whenever you opt for House Washing, make sure that roof cleaning is treated as part of it.

Follow the next steps to get rid of them effectively-

·     A bucket needs to be filled with 2 gallons of water. Half a cup of trisodium phosphate needs to be added and mixed well.

·         A long garden hose is attached to a pressure washer and carried up to the roof. Use of backpack washers is highly recommended for this step, as it enables the hands to remain free.

·         Now by holding the nozzle almost 12 inches away from the roof, pressure cleaning is undertaken. All stains and patches of mildews are targeted.

·  It is critical that the roof is allowed to dry completely before the next step. It might take a few hours or it is best to leave it overnight.

3. Applying primer

After the roof is thoroughly dry it is time to treat it with roof primer. A rust resistant and exterior grade primer is poured into a paint tray. It needs to be now applied to each and every roof panel, using a long paint roller. It must be ensured that each and every inch of the metal is covered. A paint brush should be kept handy to reach the seams and areas around the screws. The primer musts be allowed to dry completely, the drying times on the primer need to be adhered to.

4. Painting the roof

Select the top coat paints for the roof carefully, keeping the local climate in mind. Roof painter in Auckland can be consulted to make a selection of the right paint, keeping the condition of the roof in mind. An acrylic latex paint is a safe bet for most galvanized sheets. Paint is applied the same way as the primer, using a long handled paint roller, covering the primer completely. The curing time can be up to two weeks depending on the size of the roof. Two coats of paint are a must to have an even coverage.