Metal roofs are designed to withstand harsh weather elements and can last until 60 years, given that the installation process was done with utmost care and attention. However, while this is true, an added layer of protection, like water sealants and paints, can substantially avoid corrugated metal roofing problems and lengthen its lifespan.
There are many types of metal roofing based on the material used to manufacture them. They can be made from copper, aluminum, steel, Corten, and galvanized steel. Each material has its own advantages and downsides. Thus, as a homeowner, you should know which one is best based on your area’s environmental conditions.
For example, steel is a durable and robust material. However, it can quickly erode if not appropriately treated. On the other hand, aluminum needs to be over-coated with high-performance paints and powder coatings to fabricate good corrosion properties. Galvanized steel must be covered with PVC paint, as well, to protect it from rust. While these materials significantly differ in composition, they all require the same kind of protection through water sealants and paints.
Water Sealants and Paints: Importance and Application Techniques
What is the Importance of Water Sealants and Paints?
Aside from the fact that these materials can protect your metal roof from rusting, water sealants and paints also prevent water leaking into your ceiling. By knowing the installation process of a roofing system, you understand that the roof contains layers that safeguard the house from the cruelty of nature. With this in mind, water intrusion can create damage to your roof and home, which requires hefty cash for repairs or replacements.
Water sealants are materials that bar moisture, air, and airborne particles. They can be made from acrylic, polyurethane, rubber, or silicone. Among these options, silicone rises as the ideal type because it adheres best with the surface of your roof.
On the other hand, a good paint or metal roof coating should provide good adhesion to different types of metal to give your roof the protection it needs. High-quality roof paints can last for 15 years. There is a wide array of colors you can choose from to suit your home’s design and environment.
Surface Preparation to Waterproof Metal Roofs
- You may perform abrasive blast cleaning to your roof first to remove rust. However, this method can present significant challenges, so it’s best to consult with your roofing contractor about this before proceeding.
- Use mechanical and power tools to remove oil, grease, and other contaminants.
- Remove flaking rust and loosely adhering paint by pressure washing the roof.
- Check if the area is already clean and allow it to dry.
- Apply one coat of Elastometal to cover the whole area, including chimney stacks and roof vents, using a brush.
By following these steps, you ensure that your roof is ready to adhere to the paint and maximize the paint’s protection abilities.
Steps in Sealing and Waterproofing Metal Roofs
You should follow a few steps to seal and waterproof your roof effectively. First, be sure to cover any area that you don’t want to paint. It includes glass, hardware, and surrounding areas. That is because the paint can spill, or you may overspray your roof. You can seal off these areas using non-adhesive tape.
Second, you can choose between airless spray and brush or roller. With an airless spray, the result is expected to be smooth and compliant with the 175 microns dry film thickness, which is the standard for roof coatings. However, you may still choose to use a brush or a roller. Unfortunately, the process can become more tedious and trickier when utilizing these materials.
What Are Areas in the Roof That Require Sealing?
Some specific areas in your roof can be prone to leakage. These areas should be prioritized and sealed off to prevent water intrusion, such as:
- Joints
- Overlaps
- Trim
- Gutters
- Downspout
- Gaps
- Metal end laps
- Fasteners
- Seams
What Is the Average Lifespan of Water Sealants?
While the longevity of water sealants may differ per product, their average lifespan is between 10 and 20 years. In this case, your metal roof surely outlasts your sealants. Thus, you must replace your sealants at specific points in the lifespan of your metal roofing.
Failure to do so will result in more demanding problems you don’t wish to experience in the first place. It is safe to say that replacing your sealants is exponentially less costly than doing roof repairs and replacements.
Need Top Quality Corrugated Metal Roofing?
Look no further! At Miami Metal Deck, we pride ourselves as the leading metal deck manufacturing company. You can choose from our available prototypes. However, if you want one customized to your own liking, our team of expert craftsmen can do that for you.
We have been in the business of satisfying our customers through top-quality metal building materials for years now. Therefore, we are confident in the work that we do. Get hold of us today to get a quote.
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