Coating with metal roof paint is one of the best methods in prolonging your roofing’s lifespan. However, applying paint on an elevated surface is not as straightforward as some people think. It requires proper method to properly do the job.

Metal roofs are becoming popular among homeowners because of their durability and fire-resistant quality. They also demand less maintenance than other types of roof materials. The biggest enemy of metal roofs is corrosion.

If you installed corrugated iron sheets on your roof, you will have to conduct regular repainting work to preserve the condition of the roof and extend its life. New metal roofs also require a paint job to protect them from the elements.

Primer and Degreaser

You have to wash a new roof with degreaser before applying a fresh coat of paint. Unpainted metal roofs that are a year or at least several months old may be painted on without the need to degrease them. New corrugated metal roofs contain oil on the surface from their fabrication, which could prevent paint from adhering to the surface. The oil is washed off from exposure to the weather.

You have to apply a primer first before painting any unpainted iron roof. New sheets placed after repairs must also be primed before coating is applied.

You can choose practically any paint color for your roof depending on your taste and overall design of the house. White is preferred by homeowners in hot places because it does not absorb heat from the sun. The general rule is you have to apply two coats of paint.

Airless Spry Gun

Using an airless spray gun is the fastest and most convenient way to paint a corrugated iron roof. Start from a predetermined area and spray about a meter wide portion and work your way down the sheet. You can use the joints on the sheets as your guide. After working down the sheet, go back up to the top of the roof and repeat the same for the next sheet.

Rollers

Specially-shaped rollers may also be used to paint a corrugated iron roof but you have to run down the brush on the joints because the rollers may not get into parts of the sheets that are raised.

Using Brush

If you want to use a brush, we suggest starting work early in the morning. Just work in small areas, about half a sheet at a time. Do not work during the hottest hours of the day because the heat will quickly dry the paint.

The roof is a part of the house that people normally do not pay attention to unless some problems crop up that require immediate attention. The reason is that we usually do not see the roof, or at least its condition, in our daily routines.

Whatever is the material and design of your roof, you need to consider a good and quality sealant when the time comes that leaks occur, an event that practically all of us have experienced in our lives. Leak is, in fact, one of the most despised roof problems among homeowners.

A metal roof sealant helps prevent leaks and ultra violet (UV) damage to the roof. Rain could lead to leaks, especially on flat roofs because of water ponding on the surface. Below are practical tips and guides in roof sealant application.

1. Compatibility

First thing you have to consider about roof sealant is it should work with your roofing material. Some sealants are not safe to use on certain roofs so make sure to apply only those that will not damage your roof.

2. Roof Preparation

Thoroughly clean that part of the roof where you will apply the sealant, otherwise, you will experience adhesion issues. Better also to work on dry days instead of rainy days when the sealant may not properly stick to the surface. Extreme temperatures affect sealing, so work when it is not too hot nor too cold.

3. Systematic

Work from one side of the roof to the other, from top to bottom. It is important that you observe an orderly system in your sealing work. To avoid backtracking over your work and stepping over freshly-applied sealant, position two ladders at opposite sides of the roof then work from one end to the other.

4. Repairs

Repair your roof before applying a sealant. If your concrete roof has large cracks or you have missing shingles, use patching cement on the concrete surface or replace the missing shingles before applying any sealant. Sealants cannot close large gaps or holes on the roof. You have to repair the roofing material and then apply the sealant to prevent leaks.

5. Sealant Variety

Sealants come in different forms, styles and grades. Knowing which one to use on your roofing materials may be best left to roofing professionals if you want to make sure you get the right one.

6. Application

Actual sealing work is not complicated. You can use a paint brush or roller to apply the sealant. Applying a second coat is recommended to ensure complete adhesion and coverage of the roof.

The Bostitch RN46-1 Coil Roofing Nailer is practically every professional roofers dream. It is compact, durable, lightweight and easy to use. It is a must-have for metal roofing installation.

And because it has an easy-to-use design, this roofing nailer also suits homeowners who want to do some minor and basic roofing maintenance and fixes. It was specifically designed to ensure professionals and homeowners alike would not find themselves in limbo operating it.

Boasts Long-Lasting Performance

Anyone looking for a roofing nailer that could provide long-lasting performance amid harsh weather conditions and even throughout a long storage time should be checking out the Bostitch RN46-1 Coil Roofing Nailer. Previous versions of this tool lasted for nine and more years, proving its tested durability and ensuring its high-level capacity.

In a nutshell, the Bostitch RN46-1 is a 3/4-inch to 1-3/4-inch coil roofing nailer with an adjustable depth control, full round driver, body and magazine wear guards, and side-load canister for fast nail loading.

It also has an adjustable shingle guide, so operators can have an easier time spacing the shingles, and a lockout mechanism that prevents firing when the canister is empty.

However, the thing that truly sets this roofing nailer apart is the durable yet lightweight magnesium housing and carbide tips, which provides the tool’s capacity to last for decades. If that doesn’t make the cut, it also has a seven-year limited warranty.

Promises Power and Accuracy

It can be difficult to be accurate when you have a less powerful tool in your hand. Working on a roof, exterior drywall, insulation board and fiber cement application can be quite daunting without the proper tool.

The Bostitch RN46-1 is powerful in the sense that it can deliver 410 in./lbs. of force at 100 psi, and can drive up to 100 nails per minute. It has two firing methods—contact trip and sequential trip.

The contact trip has a bouncing motion that is great for large areas like roofs while a sequential trip is chosen for its precision applications mostly for a finished work.

And because it has an integrated depth dial, this tool provides fast, tool-less depth-of-drive adjustments. The five-setting dial allows you to find the perfect driving depth, which includes flush mount driving, shallow driving, and countersinking.

The only problem seems to be that the user has to change between the sequential and contact triggers, making it a bit uncomfortable for some. It would have been easier if they can change triggers without having to uncork things. There were also some jamming problems, though these were quite minimal.

The Bostitch RN46-1 Coil Roofing Nailer measures 10-1/2 x 4-5/8 x 10-5/8 inches (LxWxH) and weighs 4.8 pounds. Basically, it is designed for comfort and durability, making this  a must-have tool not only for a construction business, but for the home as well.

Whether your roof is old or new, metal primers are recommended before the application of paints on metal roofs to slow down the process of corrosion. Remember that corrosion comes from contact between bare metal and water.

Primers also ensure the paint you apply strongly stick to the surface to produce a long-lasting finish. They are specifically designed to fill microscopic gaps and bind to different substrates. Paints would often peel off from surfaces that were not treated with primer. This means more work and expenses for you.

Guides in Applying Primer

Keep in mind these reminders to ensure the proper application of your primer:

1. Before using any primer, remove any rust, dirt, grease and scale on the metal surface; otherwise, your coatings will not stick properly and easily peel off from the surface in a short time. Be on the lookout for oil, which are not visible. Better to give the entire surface a thorough rubdown just to be sure.
2. Apply a double coat of primer to ensure a long-lasting rust protection that will persist through the years. Since metal is prone to corrosion, the more primer you apply the better is the protection for the metal.
3. Planning is important when doing paint jobs. Check the dry time for primers. Do not put more primer than you can paint the next day.

Things to Look for When Choosing a Primer

Always keep the following practical tips in mind when choosing a metal roof primer:

1. Some metal primers do not contain rust-inhibiting properties or pigments. Do not buy these products since you will only be wasting your money. The rust-inhibitive pigments dissolve in and neutralize the electrolytic solutions that are the cause of corrosion.
2. Special primers can chemically convert rust to solid metal salts, if cleaning and scrapping rust off the metal is not possible.
3. Certain types of primers are not compatible with some coatings such as those containing zinc-chromate. Always ask for guidance from coating manufacturers.
4. For rusted metal, use a zinc-chromate primer to do the job. This type of primer is especially suited for old and rusty metal surfaces.
5. The label of the metal primer must state the product is rust inhibitive. You can normally find this on the front or title of the product. If not, look at the back of the label where the product description is located.
6. The primer should have great wetting properties to provide greater penetration into the metal surface, whether corroded or not.
7. Primers with fast drying and full-cure time will maximize your work production without sacrificing quality. They must also have excellent adhesion to different metal surfaces or substrates.

The rising number of people using metal roofs indicates the increasing popularity of this type of roofing. People who prefer metal roof do so for a variety of reasons, among which are durability (they are strong and fire-resistant), aesthetics appeal (available in different colors, shapes and designs) and energy-efficiency (reduction in power bills).

Metal roofing materials and designs are available for DIY metal roof enthusiasts. Doing it yourself means the finished project will be exactly according to your specifications and style plus you save money that would have been spent for contractor’s fees. If you are comfortable working with metals and not squeamish about heights, we have practical tips for you in installing metal roofs.

Tools Required

You can use standard hand tools to install metal roofs. These are hammer, screws, nails, tape measure, drill, chalk line, screw gun and metal snips. An electric metal shear is best for cutting panels, but a circular saw with abrasive blade can also do the job. For fastening metal plates together, both nails and screws will work just fine. Screws are, however, preferred by roofers because they offer superior resistance against pullout.

Prepare a Sketch and Measurement

Measure the areas to be covered by the roof. You will need precise measurements of the various parts (such as eaves lengths, chimneys, ridge length and valleys). Take several pictures of the roof from different positions and angles. This will aid you in preparing an accurate diagram, which in turn will help your local hardware facilitate the preparation of roofing materials.

Remove the Old Roof

We recommend removing the old roof before installing the new metal roofing for better foundation. Remove them when the weather is sunny since rains could ruin the materials inside the building. Start from the highest point on the roof.

Use Quality Underlayment

Use a high-quality  underlayment before installing the metal material on the roof to guard against water infiltration and block out moisture between the metal and sheathing. A rubber underlayment at the eaves and beyond the exterior wall is advisable in cold climate to address water damage caused by ice damming.

Avoid Lead Pencils

Do not use standard lead or graphite pencils in marking panels because they speed up the rate of corrosion of the metal. Use a masking tape instead—it not only prevents corrosion but can be easily seen on the roof.

Professional Services

While you can probably complete the entire roof yourself, it is sometimes advisable to let professionals do certain parts to make sure they are done properly. These are the areas that require intricate workmanship that only experienced roofers could properly accomplish such as chimneys and skylights.

Rust is a perennial problem for structures with iron roofs. All metals containing iron are susceptible to rust when exposed to air and water. Rust is actually a kind of corrosion that applies specifically to metals with iron content. Roof damage is always the result of rust.

It is advisable to keep a regular inspection of your roof as well as conduct periodic repair and recoating with paint and primer if necessary. A metal roof that is not properly maintained has a significantly shortened lifespan. Rust has several effects on metals, all of which are not good.

Rust Produces Holes on Sheet Metal

You often see the effect of rust on metal through bodies of poorly-maintained and junked cars showing patches of holes eaten by rust. The same effect can be seen on roofs. Should you fail to properly protect your roof by scraping off rusted metal and coating the roof with paint, your roof will develop holes. Holes are the passageway through which rainwater goes inside the house. If left untreated, water could ultimately damage the integrity of the whole structure.

Rust Weakens Metal Objects

Rust is usually seen as an orange powder on the surface of corroding metals. Rust, in fact, replaces the strong steel or iron with this flakey powder. Since rust has considerably less mechanical strength than the iron or steel that it replaced, it weakens the whole object. As a result, the strength of the entire object is compromised by the presence of rust. A roof weakened by rust in turn affects the whole structure on which it is a part of, thereby weakening the whole building.

Rust Expands Affected Parts

Rust possesses more volume than iron such that its formation on the affected area will push away adjacent or adjoining parts. This development, called rust-smacking, renders structures susceptible to damage caused by gravity, impact, movement and the weather. A whole bridge in Pennsylvania collapsed from this process when its bolts on the central base were heavily corroded by rust.

Metals Become Stuck When Rust Occurs

It becomes harder for two sliding metal parts to interact with one another because of the presence of rust. The basic examples of this are rusty nut and bolt. The more rust there is the harder it is to turn the nut around the bolt. Applying strong force on the rusty metal object could potentially damage it and render it unusable. Always observe caution when repairing metal roofs with rusty bolts and nails. You may inadvertently create holes and cracks by forcibly separating rusted parts.

The two most common choices for roofing materials are metal roof vs shingles. Before deciding on which one to use, consider the pros and cons of each roofing material.

Metal Roof

1. Advantages of Metal Roof

• Light. Metal in probably the lightest roof material available today.
• Longevity. Metal can last a long time. The average lifespan of a metal roof is around 60 years.
• Extended Warranty. Some manufacturers offer up to 50 years of warranty for their products.
• Weather Resistant. The material is fireproof and wind-resistant. Metal is also very good at preventing leaks.
• Green. Metal roof is made of recyclable materials. It is also very energy efficient with its capacity to reflect heat, which cools the interior during summer and lower electricity bills.

2. Disadvantages of Metal Roof

• Costly. The biggest drawback of a metal roof is its price, which is about three times more than asphalt shingles.
• Aesthetics. Metal roof is traditionally associated with barns, factories and production buildings.
• Unstable. Metal can contract and expand more than asphalt, which may compromise its ability to keep water away. Proper installation is the solution.
• Negative Track Record. People’s previous experience with metal is through the corrugated metal sheets that corrode in less than 10 years.
• Quality. Inferior or low-grade metals are still available, which are less durable and do not last as long as their high-grade counterparts.

Shingles

1. Advantages of Shingles

• Trustworthy. More than 100 years of use throughout the home construction industry. Owners are very comfortable with the material over their heads.
• Cheap. Asphalt shingles are very economical compared to metal roof. The low price is the single biggest attraction of this type of roof.
• Easy Installation. Very easy to install. Most professional contractors can install asphalt shingle roofs in one day. Even homeowners are known to do the work themselves.
• Easy to Repair. Asphalt is not only easy to install, it is also easy to repair.
• Variety of Styles. Asphalt comes in many styles and colors. There is the basic style for those with limited budget, but there are also high-end ones with style variations.
• Performance. Manufacturers offer 20 to 30-year warranty. Some are even highly rated and qualify as a cool roof that entitles the owners to tax credits.

2. Disadvantages of Shingles

• Tendency of Mismatch. Most homeowners choose basic styles and colors that do not maximize the aesthetic aspect of the house.
• Dependent on Maintenance. Longevity is often associated with periodic maintenance by the owner and a sturdy roof deck.
• Susceptibility. Asphalt does not perform well under extreme weather conditions. Its lifespan is also shortened by algae and mildew when it gets little sunlight.
• Heavy. Contrary to popular belief, asphalt shingles are actually heavier than metal. The old roof must be removed if you are to install a new asphalt roof.

The most common roofing materials in the United States are tile, composite, concrete, shingle, and wood shake. However, more homeowners are discovering the benefits that steel roofing material offers. Pro panel roofing is one of the best brands.
A steel roof is durable. It can resist rain, heat, cold, wind, rust, and damage. If the roof is somehow damaged, it is easy to repair.

Steel roofing materials are also lightweight. Cement tile weights around 10 pounds per foot, and composition roofing weights nearly four pounds per foot. A steel roof only weights one-and-a-half pounds per foot.

Steel roofs offer insulation. There are air pockets that let air flow; they lower the temperature and insulate a home. A steel roof also cools down faster than a concrete or composite roof. Less heats seeps in a house. There are steel roofing contractors who will install systems, such as wood shake roofing, over a current roof.

Metal roofing materials last a long time; a steel roof can last 30 to 50 years.

Steel roofing is offered in various colors and styles. The newest steel roofing materials are ideal for any home. There are new designs introduced in the market often. A contractor helps homeowners choose the best roof for their needs.

Metal roofing is a green option. Manufacturers are using more recycled steel in their products. Wood shake roofing and composite roofs cannot be recycled.

During metal roofing installation, most professionals use cool roofs. A high solar reflectance is an important characteristic. It helps block sunlight and heat from a structure and lowers roof temperatures. A high thermal element is important in climates that are sunny and warm. These properties help material remain 50 to 60 degrees cooler than other standard roofing materials because it absorbs less heat.

Roofing contractors and building owners have used cool roofing products many years. The products were used on residential, industrial, and commercial buildings. They are used on low-slope roofs, such as the flat roofs located on industrial, office, and commercial buildings. It is also used on steep-sloped roofs.

The EPA, Energy Star program, and the Department of Energy, help various purchasers and consumers find the roofing products that are energy-efficient. Energy Star roofing materials have met the minimum reliability and solar reflectance criteria.

Cool roofs offer many benefits besides heat island mitigation.

It reduces energy use because it transfers less heat to the area below. The building remains cooler, and less energy is used for air conditioning.

Cool roofs also reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Less energy is used; so cool roofs decrease the production of gas emissions and air pollution.

Cool roofs block heat gain during winter months. Cool roofs help with energy saving in areas that have high electricity costs.

Steel roofing cost and tin roofing prices vary depending on the location. Metal roofing is the better option because most companies provide various warranties; there may be a warranty for rust.

When choosing a professional roofing brand, consider galbanum roofing or pro panel roofing.  

To obtain an FREE steel roof replacement estimate use our special roof replacement calculator here.

If you are in need of a new roof, you might want to know how much does a metal roof cost, especially if you’re considering having a roof that will last for many, many years to come. Whether you are repairing a current metal roof and taking a look at metal roofing cost for repairs, or are replacing an asphalt roof with a new metal one, you should have a good idea of metal roofing prices before you go any further.

Metal roofs can last for as long as 50 years, sometimes longer. So your investment will go a long, long way.  This type of roof will only add to your home’s resale value in the future, also.

Depending upon where you live in the United States, prices for metal roofs can vary widely.  The overall cost can be anywhere between $13,500 and $24,165.  But upon resale of your home, you can generally recoup from 87.5% to 95.5% of the money you’ve spent on your metal roofing.  That is money well spent, indeed.

You can also look at the cost of metal roof installations by estimating the cost per square foot of the roof area you are covering.  The average square foot cost this year ranges from $8.06 to $10.72, again depending upon your location.  If you use a contractor who is bonded, licensed and insured, or if your roof repair or installation is especially intricate or a rush job, you can expect to pay the upper end of this pay scale.  To obtain an instant estimate of your metal roof replacement costs then use our online calculator.

The estimated metal roof cost will usually include materials, equipment, prep work, job cleanup, debris removal of the older or damaged roof, labor and installation.  If a general contractor will be overseeing the work and supervising the roofing team, you may expect to pay anywhere from 12% to 19% more in total.  And do not forget to add in sales tax on materials you will be charged for and any permit or inspection fees if applicable from your local town building department.

If you are more of a do-it-yourself type, your roof cost may be much lower than previously estimated.  Even if you only purchase the materials yourself and then hire a roofing firm to install it, you can save money.  You may want to purchase the steel roof panels yourself at a home hardware store, but you need to know how much to buy and all of the materials you will need for the job, and this can be difficult for a non-professional to accurately figure out.

Not only will a new metal roof add to your home’s resale value and last you a very long time, but it will also add to your home’s energy savings.  Energy efficient metal roofing will reflect the sun’s rays, cooling your home in summer, while high emissive roofs can lessen air temperature by more than 10 degrees.  You will use less cooling energy and lessen your carbon footprint by generating less air pollution that air conditioners put out.  Metal roofs reflect solar energy and the solar radiation that is absorbed is re-emitted.

So how much does a metal roof cost you in the long run?  The answer is not very much at all when you look at the longevity, the energy savings, the resale value, and even the possibility of lowering your home insurance with discounts in areas that experience extreme weather conditions that metal roofs can withstand more safely than other roofing materials.