Can You Paint A Galvanized Metal Roof

Galvanized metal roofs are usually painted with acrylic based paint.

Can you paint a galvanized metal roof.

Painting a galvanized steel panel roof is not all that different from painting other metal objects but you must ensure that the surface is perfectly clean before beginning the application process. Find either oil based or acrylic based paint at your local home improvement store. Galvanized metal requires either a zinc dust type paint or a latex paint. My house was built circa 1880 and still has its original terne metal roof which consists of individual metal shingles with an embossed decorative pattern.

Unfortunately over time this coating can fail leading to minor rust outbreaks. To ensure that you know what kind of metal your roof is made out of and what kind of paint you should use ask a professional roofer to inspect your home. If you are preparing to paint a rusted galvanized metal roof pay special attention to surface preparation or you will have a recurrence of rust and or flaking. Paint will not adhere to your metal roofing unless you apply an etching primer first.

Some people will leave a galvanized metal roof as is whereas others prefer to paint it. Galvanized steel on the other hand cannot be painted with an oil based or aluminum based paint. The american iron and steel institute have run tests that show new unpainted galvanized steel can be field painted immediately upon construction. However if you have to repair your galvanized metal roof anyway it might be a great visual decision to paint it afterwards.

You can also use oil based alkyd paint but.