Do you want to paint your metal roof? But not sure which paint will be best for you? If yes, then you are going to be greatly benefited!.
The lifespan of your metal roof can be increased by choosing the right paint. Moreover, your house will become energy-efficient, and your roof will stay protected from harsh weather conditions. But picking out the right paint for your metal roof depends on several factors.
We know this isn’t an easy task. So, to help you, we have brought to you everything you need to know about the best paint for metal roofs.
| Name | Best For | Read More | Price |
| FIXALL Skid Grip Paint | Metal Roof | Read Review | Check Price |
| Krylon K0564700 | Corrugated Metal Roof | Read Review | Check Price |
| KILZ Exterior Paint | Metal Barn Roof | Read Review | Check Price |
| Diamond Brite Paint | Galvanized Metal Roof | Read Review | Check Price |
| Liquid Rubber | Rusted Metal Roof | Read Review | Check Price |
| Rust-Oleum | Spray Paint | Read Review | Check Price |
10 Best Paint For Metal Roof
When it comes to painting metal roofs, tons of paints are available in the market. To aid you in finding the ideal one for your roof, we have reviewed the 10 best paint for metal roofs.
Let’s have a look.
1. FIXALL Skid Grip Paint
Key Features
- Textured acrylic paint ensures a high-grip finish.
- Suitable for cement, asphalt, wood, and stone surfaces.
- Fade-resistant color lasts a long time.
- Available in six different colors.
- Satisfies ADA standards for slip-resistant surfaces.
This FIXALL Skid Grip paint is well-known for its excellent slip resistance. You can be sure about safety even if you use it in high traffic areas like the swimming pool, basketball courts, and patio. Because this paint meets the ADA Standards for slip resistance.
Moreover, you can enhance the look of any landscape using the seven vibrant colors of this FIXALL paint. You can also use this fade-resistant paint on different surfaces such as asphalt, concrete, and metal. All these features make this the best paint for metal roof.
What’s more, the 100% acrylic formulation makes it great for metal roofs too. This ensures reduced oxidation and advanced rust resistance. Furthermore, your metal roof will be protected from erosion as it blocks UV rays.
Another great feature is the superior adhesion quality which is essential for metal roofs. Lastly, this is a cost-effective paint option. Because it will last for a long time without any peeling or fading.
2. Dyco 8901 Paints
Key Features
- Available in a 1-gallon container.
- This paint features water resistance.
- It takes thirty to sixty minutes to dry.
- One gallon covers 200 to 300 square feet.
- Suitable for aluminum, galvanized metal, and asphalt.
This Dyco Paint is a solvent-based coating for metal roofing. The main advantage of this rubber co-polymer coating is the ample protection that it provides against harsh weather. And as this coating works as a water-resistant seal, your metal roof will stay protected from all kinds of moisture.
You can use this on galvanized metal, aluminum, and asphalt. And the one-gallon container is enough to cover 200 to 300 square feet of the roof. This paint only takes 30 to 60 minutes of cure time.
This is one of the best paint for metal roofs for waterproofing. Your roof will be rust-free as it can block out moisture buildups. And its unique formulation makes it long-lasting and flexible.
What’s more, the rubberized formula will cover if there are water leaks on your roof. Lastly, you can apply this paint by yourself with simple tools.
3. Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant
Key Features
- This paint is UV Stable for sun damage protection.
- Available in eight different colors.
- Water-based and environment-friendly paint.
- Features adhesion failure prevention capability.
- Doesn’t include VOCs, solvents, or toxic odors.
This paint can be used for versatile projects. It is a water-based coating that can be used as a watertight sealant. You can also use it for metal roofs, flat roofs, planter boxes, mobile homes, sheds, and many more projects.
Another great feature of this paint is that it’s made with environment-friendly materials. That’s because it doesn’t contain any solvent or VOC. And hence, it’s safe for both humans and animals.
Moreover, this paint is highly flexible and the final membrane ensures over 1000% elongation. So the sealant will adhere to the metal perfectly.
What’s more, the flexible membrane can block water from damaging the metal. The UV stability allows this paint to prevent sun damage. Lastly, you also get protection from thermal cycling, salt, and harmful chemicals.
Paint brush for metal roof: Kingorigin Heavy Duty Professional Stain Brush
The 3 Piece Super Grip handle Set by Kingorigin is the best paint brush for metal roof painting. This set includes one 4 inch, one 5 inch, and one 6 inch brush with bucket clips.
These brushes are made with synthetic polyester bristles. This type of bristle is easier to clean and ensures a smooth finish. What’s more, the soft-grip handle is easier to control and comfortable to hold.
Lastly, you can use these brushes with both water and oil-based paints. And these will last for a long time as there is no bristle loss.
Best Paint for Corrugated Metal Roof
4. Krylon K0564700 Brush On Paint
Key Features
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Easy cleaning with soap and water.
- Can be used on wood, wicker, metal, ceramic, etc.
- Half-pint paint covers up to 25 square feet.
- Dries quickly in about sixty minutes.
The premium coverage, vibrant colors, and excellent adhesion quality makes Krylon K0564700 the best paint for corrugated metal roof. This classic black color can be used for painting new projects and repainting older ones.
Acrylic latex paint is the best type of paint for metal roofs. You can also use it on different surfaces like wood, wicker, ceramic, plastic, wrought iron, and whatnot. All of your DIY projects will turn out to be more attractive with this vibrant color.
The superior adhesion quality makes it great even for galvanized metals. And you can use it for both indoor and outdoor projects. Another plus point is, you can clean up this paint with just soap and water.
What’s more, the glossy finish will reflect sun rays. And this helps in keeping the roof cool. Also, it dries up in about two hours, so you won’t have to wait long before adding a second layer.
Paint Brush for Corrugated Metal Roof: ABCO Products 7″ Roof Brush
The ABCO Products 7″ Roof Brush is a good paint brush for corrugated metal roof painting. This wide brush can make your painting project faster and shorter. Because this seven-inch brush can cover more surfaces in a single stroke.
It features 2-1/2tampico bristles. And the woodblock has a tapered handle hole. This is a lightweight brush for coating your entire roof. Lastly, it ensures smooth strokes that result in a shiny coat.
Best Paint for Metal Barn Roof
5. KILZ Exterior Paint
Key Features
- Protects against harsh weather.
- Offers a glossy and smooth finish.
- Peeling, cracking, and blister-resistant paint.
- One gallon covers a 500 sq. ft. surface.
- Curing time is 6 to 8 hours.
The KiLZ paint has been specially made for painting outdoor projects like barns and fences. So this can efficiently protect your metal barn from weather damage, peeling, and crackling.
It comes with a unique oil/water-based formula that enables it to protect your metal barn roof against the worst conditions. Moreover, it contains the most beneficial features of both oil and latex adhesion, durability, and penetrations. All these superior qualities make it the best paint for metal barn roof.
Furthermore, you can use this paint for wood, stucco, masonry, and sanded glossy exteriors. Another great feature of this paint is that it dries up quickly in about 2-3 hours. And after setting completely, it becomes mildew resistant.
What’s more, you will get excellent coverage to about 500 sq. ft surface with only one-gallon paint. Lastly, applying this paint is also fairly simple. You can use a nylon brush, polyester brush, or airless spray for applying it.
6. Rust-Oleum 1990502 Latex Paint
Key Features
- It can minimize surface imperfections.
- Comes with a very low odor.
- This pain is chipping-resistant.
- Can be used on various surfaces.
- Takes about thirty minutes to dry.
The 1990502 from Rust-Oleum is another great paint for metal burn roofs. This provides a smooth and durable finish on both interior and exterior surfaces like metal, plaster, or ceramic.
The paint only takes thirty minutes to dry up. Also, as this paint dries super quickly, projects need less time to finish. However, to achieve a super smooth finish, sand the metal surface with 180/200 grit sandpaper, degrease, dry, and then apply the paint.
The smooth flat finish can cover surface imperfections too. Any scratches or marks on the metal can be covered using this. Moreover, this paint is fading and chipping resistant which is essential for metal barn roofs.
Furthermore, this water-based acrylic formulation increases the longevity of metal roofs. It also has reduced odor which makes it safer for humans. And lastly, one quart of paint can cover up to 120 sq ft surface.
Paint Brush for Metal Barn Roof: EVERSPROUT Goliath Deck Stain Brush
The Goliath Deck Stain Brush & Extension Pole Combo from EVERSPROUT is a great paint brush for metal barn roof painting. This deck stain brush works with paints, sealants, and stains.
Moreover, the seven-inch wide brush can paint large surfaces quickly and efficiently. And, the ultra-thick shedding-resistant bristles hold more stains to provide better coverage in fewer strokes.
The Goliath is made with durable material and the connectors are made of metal. What’s more, the long extension pole will help you in painting the roof from your ladder.
Best Paint for Galvanized Metal Roof
7. Diamond Brite Paint
Key Features
- This paint features great heat resistance.
- Can be applied using a brush, roller, or spray.
- It provides a glossy finish.
- Works for metal, masonry, or wood surface.
- Contains high-quality aluminum pigments.
The Diamond Brite Aluminum Paint is a combination of long-lasting oils, resins, and top-grade leafing aluminum pigments. These amazing materials enable this paint to provide the most pigmented and glossy finish on galvanized metals.
What’s more, this paint can protect galvanized metal surfaces from rust and corrosion. So not only will your galvanized metal roof be protected but it will also achieve excellent color retention and shine. All these features make this the best paint for galvanized metal roof.
Another unique feature of this paint is its high-temperature withstanding capability. It can endure about 600 degrees Fahrenheit. Hence, you can use it on radiators, heaters, and other machinery in an industrial or commercial setting.
Apply it on your roof easily using a spray, paint brush or roller and enjoy superior coverage that will protect your roof against harsh weather. It also has a rust-inhibiting feature to ensure maximum protection for galvanized metal.
Best Paint for Rusted Metal Roof
8. Liquid Rubber MetalSafe Sealant
Key Features
- Provides a durable waterproof finish.
- It features high UV stability.
- Available in a five-gallon container.
- Features freeze or thaw stability.
- 2-3 coats of paint provide a 0.76mm membrane.
This paint is called MetalSafe sealant because it provides ultra-high corrosion protection. And corrosion resistance is crucial for preventing further rust occurrence on rusted metal. One or two coats of this sealant will prevent rust from coming back on your metal roof.
Moreover, this sealant acts as a durable and waterproof surface on top of the rusted metal roof. It also features superior UV stability for protection from sun damage. Hence, it is the best paint for rusted metal roof.
Application of this sealant is very easy. You can use a normal paintbrush, a roller, and even a spray to directly apply it over rusted surfaces. What’s more, this sealant is freeze and thaw stable, so you can use it in any weather condition.
Let’s not forget the excellent adhesion this paint provides. The long-lasting membrane created by this paint will also ensure chemical resistance. And it can even be used in extremely cold and hot temperatures.
Best Spray Paint for Metal Roofing
9. Rust-Oleum 7590838 Spray Paint
Key Features
- High output tip allows spraying at various angles.
- Can cover up to fourteen square feet of surface.
- Takes only fifteen minutes to dry.
- The flat finish hides surface imperfections.
- Provides rust resistance to the metal roof.
Rust-Oleum 7590838 is the best spray paint for metal roofing. Because this excellent enamel paint can protect both ferrous and non-ferrous metal surfaces from rust and corrosion. Moreover, it will provide high weather resistance even during harsh weather.
This oil-based paint provides consistent resistance against corrosion. Moreover, this commercial-quality enamel takes only 15 minutes to dry up and an hour to cure. So you can finish projects super quickly using this paint.
Another feature that makes it the best spray paint is the high output tip. This allows the paint to be sprayed at a faster rate. And you get to achieve up to 50% faster coverage with this tip.
What’s more, this paint can be sprayed at any angle. The 360 degrees application makes it easy to paint the angles and hard-to-reach places. So you will be able to paint all areas of the metal roof without difficulty.
Best Spray Paint for Galvanized Metal
10. Seymour 16-1445 Spray Paint
Key Features
- This paint provides a zinc-enhanced coating.
- It features premium crack resistance.
- Ensures excellent protection for bare steel.
- Built using waterborne high-solid resins.
- Doesn’t contain cadmium, lead, mercury, or chromates.
The zinc exterior finish in this paint acts as a primer for galvanized metal and makes it the best spray paint for galvanized metal. This paint ensures a durable, and crack-resistant paint surface on top of galvanized metals.
Moreover, the zinc-enhanced coating provides ultimate protection to both bare steel. And this paint will provide extra zinc protection to bare iron surfaces. You will receive excellent coverage with highly pigmented color with this paint.
Another plus point of this paint is that it’s environment-friendly. It doesn’t contain any toxic materials such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and chlorinated solvents. So it’s safe for animals and humans. You won’t need additional safety breathing apparatus while painting.
What’s more, the 93% Type I zinc in this paint resists oxidation. And this protects the galvanized metal from rust.
Lastly, this paint meets the performance standards of ASTM A780, MIL-P-46105, MIL-P-26915C, DOD-P-21035A, and SSPC-Paint 20.
What kind of paint do you use on a metal roof?
Acrylic latex paints are a great choice for both new painting and repainting metal roofs. Go for acrylic paints that contain UV blocking resins. This helps in preventing corrosion, rust, water infiltration, and fading.
Another type of paint for metal roofs is direct-to-metal. This type of paint is good for galvanized metal and Terne tin roofs. You can also use elastomeric paint which is waterborne acrylic. Their specialty is a high heat-reflective property.
Oil-based acrylic paints may need a galvanized metal primer to adhere properly. Another thing to remember is not to use interior paint for roofs as it won’t be able to withstand the weather.
What preparations should one take before painting a metal roof?
For increasing the longevity of the paint on your metal roof, preparing the surface is vital. If you skip the preparation steps, even the most high-quality paints will fail.
So follow the steps mentioned below to prepare your metal roof for painting.
Clean the Roof
If you are painting a new metal roof, spray mineral spirits to clean grease off the surface. After that, use a rust-resistant primer.
For already painted metal roofs, use a brush or cloth to clean the dust. If the metal is very dirty, use a mild detergent or a cleaner recommended for painted surfaces.
Then sand the entire surface to de-gloss it. Lastly, wipe the surface with mineral spirits to increase adhesion.
Remove Peeling Paints
Wire brushing, scraping, or sanding can remove the old peeling paint. However, these processes often fail to deliver expected results.
Using power tools can solve this problem. You can also use paint stripper solutions such as Peel Tec.
Clean Rust
The paint will not adhere to rusted metal properly. To clean rust off a metal roof, use a brush to remove the loose rust. Then sand the rusted area and use a high-quality rust-resistant primer.
Rust converters or primers can effectively cover rusted areas for good paint adhesion.
Prime the Metal Roof
Priming instantly after cleaning the metal surface is crucial to stop dirt or dust from accumulating. The type of primer depends on metal type, performance, and environmental requirements.
Mainly two types of primers are used for metal roofs: galvanized metal primer and rust converters. Galvanized primers are used for metals that are low paint adhesive. And rust converters are used on rusted surfaces for preventing the recurrence of rust.
What color metal roof is the most energy-efficient?
Lighter colored roofs can reflect sun rays better and stay 50-60 degrees cooler than darker roofs. Using colors like white, beige, light bronze, peach, light blue, or green on your roof will make your house more energy-efficient and reduce your electricity bill.
Lighter colors can lower energy expenses by up to 20-30 percent monthly. This is possible because if your home stays cooler you won’t use air conditioning systems as much.
How to paint a metal roof with a roller
Paint rollers enable you to paint your metal roof relatively quickly. Using a roller also gives you more control and minimizes the risk of getting paint where you don’t want it.
To paint a metal roof with a roller, follow these instructions.
#1. If you are painting a corrugated surface, then pick a foam roller. And use a universal roller for flat surfaces.
#2. Pour the paint on a paint dish and dip the roller in the primer. Then roll it on the angled part of the dish to equally distribute the primer on the roller.
#3. Now, beginning on one edge of the metal roof start rolling the roller upwards at an angle.
#4. In 4 zigzag strokes drag the roller down, up, down, and up over. Make a large W with about two feet long strokes.
#5. Now turn the paint roller and draw horizontal strokes across the angled strokes. This will help in eliminating stroke lines.
#6. Keep using this W-pattern for painting the whole roof.
How to Paint Metal Roofs?
Painting a metal roof requires time, patience, and proper technique. We have explained the painting process step-by-step to ensure that you will succeed in your painting project. Follow these steps properly to get a flawless finish on your metal roof.
1# Remove Old Paint
If your metal roof has old paint on it, scrape away the peeling or loose paint using a putty knife or scraper. Be conscious no to scratch the metal while scraping the paint. For better adhesion of the new paint, sand the surface with a wire brush or sandpaper.
2# Remove Rust Patches
After removing the old paint, you will be able to see whether there are any rust patches. Either scrape them away or use vinegar to remove them. You can also use rust removing chemical solvents.
3# Wash the Surface
Using a power washer is good for removing dirt, dust, and peeling paint. Spray the entire roof by moving the wand from side to side. If you can’t manage a power washer, use a garden hose.
Wait for about an hour before the next step. The roof needs to be completely dry for painting.
4# Apply Primer
Primer ensures that the paint will stick to the metal. You can apply the primer using a roller or paintbrush. The primer coating needs to be thick.
Try covering the entire roof from your ladder. Use a roller with a long handle for reaching far. Give the primer an hour to dry before painting.
5# Apply New Paint
Use the same brush or roller to apply one coat of paint on the entire roof. Check your paint can to ensure how long it will take to cure. After the first coat dries completely, apply a second coat of paint.
The second will help in painting over any missing spots. And this will also provide good protection to your metal roof, because a thick membrane of paint protects metal from harsh elements.
roofing paint Buying Guide
To find out the best paint for metal roof, you need to consider some important factors. Check out our comprehensive buying guide to find the ideal paint for your metal roof.
Paint Type
Water or oil-based acrylic paint is generally used for metal roofs. While water-based paints adhere best to the metal, oil-based paints work as an extra protective layer for your roof.
You can also choose from different finishes such as Silicon Polyester, Polyester-Resin, and Fluoropolymer Resin. Each of these offers different benefits such as fading resistance, high color retention, and durability.
Paint Color
Lighter paint shades are great for homes that get too hot in summer. Because light-colored or reflective paints reflect the sun instead of absorbing the heat.
On the other hand, if your home gets way too cold in the wintertime, go for dark paint colors. That’s because dark paint will absorb the heat and keep your house warmer.
Durability
Painting a metal roof is no easy job. So choose a paint that will last for at least four to five years. Rust resistance is a crucial feature as you are painting your metal roof which is prone to rust.
The paint should be able to withstand harsh weather conditions. Moreover, choose paint that won’t fade away easily. Having heat-resistant paint is also a good option for protecting the roof.
Coverage
How thickly one coat of paint covers your metal roof is important. Thick coating means you will need less paint to achieve the required membrane thickness.
Water-based colors are not thick and will not be good if you want a thick membrane. Go for acrylic paint as it provides more coverage and lasts longer.
Ease of Use
If you are not a professional and intend to paint the roof yourself, ease of application should be one of the first things to consider. Choose a paint that only requires a roller and a squeegee for application.
Don’t pick a color that requires a complicated application process. Because you will end up wasting a lot of effort, time, and money.
Cure Time
Cure time or drying time indicates the time needed for the paint to set completely and be ready for a second coating. Essentially, you should choose a paint that cures in 6 to 8 hours. Paints that take longer than this can be a hassle to finish painting.
Budget
Ultimately which paint you will buy depends on your budget. So decide on a budget first. This will help in narrowing down your options.
FAQ
It’s normal to have some queries after going through the product reviews. Therefore, we have answered some of the common questions about the best paint for metal roof.
Can I repaint my metal roof?
Answer: Yes, you can repaint your metal roof. But this is possible only after removing rust, sanding, and priming the metal roof.
Can you paint a faded metal roof?
Answer: You can paint a faded metal roof after properly cleaning, sanding, and priming the surface.
How long does metal roof paint last?
Answer: This depends on the paint type, how thickly the paint is applied, and the resins used. Some paints come with five to thirty years of warranty.
How to prevent air bubbles while spray painting?
Answer: Spray paint your metal roof in ideal weather to avoid air bubbles. 50-90 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity below 85% is ideal for spray painting.
Why do I need to use a primer?
Answer: Primer is important for painting metal roofs, because it helps the paint adhere to the metal. Also, primer provides water resistance to the metal roof.
Is painting galvanized roof panels possible?
Answer: Yes, you can paint galvanized roof panels as long as you use acrylic latex paint.
Final Verdict
Using paint that will increase the longevity of your metal roof is a must. However, choosing one that will best suit your needs can be difficult. Hopefully, our review of the 10 best paint for metal roof has helped you in this regard.
All the paints reviewed here are great choices for metal roofing. However, we choose the FIXALL Skid Grip Paint as our top pick. Because this durable acrylic paint will protect your metal roof from rust, corrosion, and UV damage in an affordable price range.
