Shingle roofs may appear rustic, but in modern times, they have become a common, affordable, and durable option for homeowners seeking to protect their investment. Shingle roofs are the most popular type of residential roof covering in the United States. In fact, almost 40% of homes built after 2000 have a shingle roof. Many people assume that a shingle roof can’t be painted, but this is not always true. There are pros and cons to painting vs not painting when it comes to your home’s shingled roof. Whether you want to paint or not paint your shingled roof depends on several factors. To help you decide whether painting your shingle roof is right for you and your home, we’ve put together this guide on can you paint a shingle roof. If so – go ahead and if not – think again!
Can You Paint A Shingle Roof?
Yes, it is possible to paint a shingle roof. However, it can be a challenge to get a good result as shingles are typically made of wool or synthetic materials that are difficult to paint. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take proper precautions when painting a shingle roof.
Why Consider Painting Your Roof?
It Helps Deteriorate UV Rays
When you paint your roof, you are helping to deteriorate UV rays. The average lifespan of a roof ranges from 20 to 30 years. A roof’s exposure to the elements—including heat, the cold, wind, and UV rays—will shorten its lifespan. The sun’s UV rays will break down your roof’s shingles, causing them to fray and crack, which can lead to leaks inside your home. When selecting paint for your roof, you want to choose a product that is rated for use on roofs. Look for sealers and coatings designed to repel water, prevent UV damage, and keep your roof shingles in good condition.
It Repels Rain And Hail
A roof’s paint acts like a shield against rain and hail. Roof paint repels water, keeping it from reaching the roof’s shingles. The water that does come in contact with the roof will already be in liquid form, thus preventing the formation of ice dams that may otherwise cause roof leaks. If you have a metal roof, consider painting it with special metal paint. This type of paint is formulated to adhere to metal, preventing the rust that can form when metal is exposed to rain and other elements.
It Is A Protective Coating
When you paint your roof, it becomes a protective coating. The paint will protect your shingles against the elements, preventing them from getting damaged. The paint will also protect your home from leaks and other damage caused by a bad roof. When selecting paint for your roof, you want to pick a product that is heavy-duty and designed for roofs. The paint should be able to withstand all weather conditions, including high temperatures and UV rays. You also want to make sure that the paint is solvent-free, to prevent it from damaging your shingles.
It Will Preserves Your Roofing Material
Painted roofs last much longer than unpainted roofs because the paint acts as a seal to prevent water from soaking into the roof’s surface. Painted roofs also reflect sunlight, preventing the roofing material from overheating. If you choose the right type of paint, it can also prevent the roof’s underlying materials from rotting. When you choose roof paint, you want to make sure that it is formulated to last. Roof paints are available in both acrylic and urethane. Acrylic roof paints are less expensive and can be applied over existing roof paint. Urethane roof paints, however, are more resistant to wear and tear, making them a better choice if you plan to completely repaint your roof.
- Painting Your Roof Will Boost Its Value
If you plan to sell your home in the near future, painting your roof can help boost its value. Most buyers will want to repaint the roof of a home before they move in, but if you have already done it, you have saved them time and money. If you are trying to sell your home, you might be worried about potential roof leaks and water damage. A fresh coat of paint on your roof can help eliminate those concerns, making your home more appealing to potential buyers. In addition, a well-maintained roof can add as much as 5% to the value of your home, according to some experts.
What You Should Know About Painting Shingle Roofs?
- Before you apply any paint to your shingled roof, you must first ensure that the shingles are clean and free of debris. You can do this by removing any loose debris by hand or by using a power washer.
- You may also want to consider replacing any damaged shingles.
- Once your shingles are free of debris and you have replaced any damaged shingles, you can then begin the process of painting your shingle roof.
- Note that roof paint should be applied when the shingles are warm, as cold shingles will make the paint more difficult to apply and more likely to crack once dry.
- If you have asphalt shingles, you will likely want to use an oil-based primer, as water-based products could cause the shingles to soften.
When Should You Not Paint A Shingle Roof?
There are a few instances when you should not paint your shingle roof. For example, if your shingles are less than two years old, many roofing contractors will advise against painting them as the paint may trap moisture and cause the shingles to break down much more quickly. Additionally, if your roof has experienced significant damage, such as sustained hail damage, you also should not paint the roof as the paint may trap moisture, making the damage even worse.
Pros Of Painted Shingle Roofs
- As we’ve mentioned, a painted roof can increase the lifespan of your shingles by protecting them from UV damage and rot.
- It can also help to repel water and reduce the amount of energy required to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
- A painted roof may also help to protect your shingles against hail damage and improve your home’s curb appeal. And, of course, a painted roof can help to enhance the architectural style of your home and fit in with your neighborhood’s aesthetic.
- Overall, a painted roof has many benefits, including protecting the shingles themselves from damage, protecting the underside of the shingles from rot, repelling water, reducing the amount of energy required to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, protecting against hail damage, and improving your home’s curb appeal.
Cons Of Painted Shingle Roofs
- While a painted roof can be beneficial in many ways, it is important to note that it can also have some disadvantages. For example, painting your shingles may reduce the lifespan of your shingles by trapping moisture underneath the paint, especially if you apply oil-based paint.
- A painted roof may also increase your energy costs, as it can make your home less energy efficient.
- In some areas, painting a roof may also increase the grade of your home, which could make it more difficult to get a mortgage.
- A painted roof may also make your home less eco-friendly and may not be aesthetically pleasing to all prospective buyers.
Bottom Line
A shingle roof can be an excellent option for homeowners who want a low-maintenance roof that is durable and long-lasting. However, an unprofitable roof is an unused roof, so if you want to get the most out of your shingled roof, you may want to consider painting it. Roof painting can increase the lifespan of your shingles, protect the underside of the shingles from rot, repel water, reduce the amount of energy required to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, and protect against hail damage. we hope our guide on “can you paint a shingle roof” has helped you decide!
