Are you looking for the best sealant for a metal roof but have no idea where to start? Don’t fret. I have prepared this guide to keep you informed on metal roof sealants and help you navigate your choices.
Read on.
Best Sealant For Metal Roof Leak
1. Loctite PL S30 Black Roof and Flashing Sealant 10-Fluid Ounce Cartridge
For a good reason, the Loctite PL S30 Black Roof Sealant takes the crown for editor’s pick/best overall. It’s an entirely weatherproof sealant ensuring your metal roofing remains protected.
This weatherproof ability also ensures the sealant will not wear out or deteriorate in hot or cold weather. The sealant also has high ozone and UV resistance preventing it from softening under the harsh sunlight, causing roof sun damage.
This sealant is also corrosion-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about rusty roofs. You will also love that this metal roof sealant is elastic and remains flexible. It can expand and contract with construction material movement protecting and retaining the original seal.
If you’ve dug into this sealant already, you are probably thinking- too bad it comes in black. This should not be a point of worry as it is a paintable roof sealant.
You only need to get the paint color of choice, and you will have a metal roof sealant that matches your roof color and preferences. This roof sealant is also perfect because of its fair price.
On the downside, you may curse Loctite while attempting to squeeze the metal roof sealant. Users note that it is tough to squeeze the caulk gun even with two hands with this sealant.
Pros
- Completely weatherproof
- UV rays and ozone resistant
- Durable metal roof sealant
- Corrosion-resistant
- Fairly priced
Cons
- Hard to squeeze
2. Liquid Rubber Color Waterproof Sealant
If you are looking for versatile, waterproof, and environmentally friendly liquid rubber sealants, then the Liquid Rubber Color Waterproof Sealant is your perfect find.
This multipurpose sealant can work well on your metal roof and wood, concrete, and asphalt. And it doesn’t matter whether it’s sloped roofs or flat roofs-it will be effective for all.
It’s also an easy-to-apply roof sealant; it’s almost effortless as you will only need to use a brush or spray, eliminating the hassle of external contractors, as applying liquid sealant can be a simple DIY home project.
This liquid rubber roof sealant is also waterproof and offers UV protection, meaning you don’t have to worry about harsh weather conditions damaging or degrading your entire roof.
Moreover, this roof sealant is environmentally friendly, as it has no solvents or volatile organic compounds. So, you don’t have to worry about polluting the environment.
This also means it’s a safe sealant to use even with kids and pets. With this liquid rubber product, you also enjoy excellent coverage of about 30 square feet for one gallon.
But, you may dislike that this sealant is not corrosion-resistant. With metal roofing, this can be a real problem. Manufacturers recommend using a water-based or rust primer if you notice corrosion issues.
The price of the roof sealant is also a bit on the higher side. But with the excellent coverage and massive benefits, I can guarantee you will get value for your money.
Pros
- Versatile and easy to apply
- Waterproof and offers UV protection
- Environmental friendly
- Excellent coverage
Cons
- Not corrosion resistant
- Its price is a bit on the higher side.
3. Sashco – 14010 Through The Roof Sealant
If your home area experiences extreme temperatures, you are probably stressed out about the best metal roof sealant. You’ve also seen most manufacturers warning against applying roof sealant on a wet or dirty roof.
So, what do you do? Get the Sashco – 14010 Through the Roof Sealant! This freeze-thaw durable sealant can stay tough in cold weather and temperatures from 0-120 degrees Fahrenheit. It also has a low VOC formula making it flexible in hot and cold temperatures.
You also don’t have to worry about the product’s ability to withstand hot or cold weather as it is UV resistant and waterproof. Its permanently elastic feature ensures the sealant will not dry or crack irrespective of the weather changes causing leaks. Unlike roof sealant that tends to break when a metal roof expands during the hot season, this one expands with your roof.
The roof sealant also has a high reflectivity as it comes in clear color. But, if you don’t want the high reflectivity, it’s still paintable, and you can use a dark color to cater to your needs and preferences.
It’s also one of the most reasonably priced sealants on the market. And the cherry on top is that it can stick to both wet and dry surfaces. So, it doesn’t matter when you choose to apply it-whether your metal roofing has standing water or it’s scorching; using it will be perfectly fine.
You, however, need to know that this sealant is a bit thick, making it harder to use than other metal roof sealants.
Pros
- Freeze-thaw stability makes it ideal for extreme temperatures
- Weatherproof and UV resistant preventing roof leaks
- Paintable
- Permanently elastic
- High reflectivity
- Fairly priced
Cons
- Thick making it a bit hard to use
4. Titebond 62401 WeatherMaster Metal Roof Advanced Polymer Sealant
You’ve perhaps heard that some metal roof sealants are excellent for repair while others are great as protective coatings. And you’re probably wondering what would be the best repair sealant.
The Titebond 62401 WeatherMaster roof sealant takes the crown as the best budget-friendly repair sealant. First, this sealant applies easily, even in extreme weather conditions.
So whether it’s in the thick of winter, summer, spring, or autumn, you don’t have to stress sealant application fails that may cause leaks.
Its ease of use is its other exciting feature. Anybody can use the cartridge easily, meaning you don’t have to spend all the labor costs involved with metal roof sealant application. And is UV resistant and 100 percent weatherproof, guaranteeing protection for your metal roofing irrespective of the weather.
Its flexibility also makes this sealant an excellent choice for your metal roofing. It doesn’t break or crack when the metal roofing expands and contracts. Instead, it copies it and expands or contracts, leaving you no worries about the roof sealant replacement costs or any roof leak.
The sealant comes in a clear color, which makes it highly reflective. But, it’s still paintable, allowing you the freedom to choose the roof color of choice. And my favorite part? It’s available at a budget-friendly price compared to other roof sealants.
But, the roof sealant cartridge has a limited warranty. So, you may have to chip in some extra costs if the cartridge does not work as desired.
Pros
- Applies easily in extreme weather conditions
- Waterproof and UV resistant
- Permanently flexible
- Paintable
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Roof sealant cartridge has a limited warranty
5. fowong Butyl Rubber Aluminum Foil Tape 2″ W
If you are looking for the best butyl tape sealant, you won’t regret the fowong Butyl Rubber Aluminium sealant. This butyl tape sealant features an aluminum layer that enhances its water-resistant and UV-resistant capabilities.
The aluminum layer prevents water infiltration through the metal roof leak or roof vents. The tape sealant is also UV resistant keeping your metal roofing safe from damage by the scorching sun.
You’ll love this sealing tape with high reflectivity if you live in a hot area. The aluminum layer effectively reflects strong sunlight, ensuring that your home remains considerably cool even in the summer.
This makes the tape a cost-effective option for saving on energy bills. And no need to worry about the size of the tape as it comes in multi-sizes to suit all your metal roofing leak needs.
The favorite part? It’s easy to install. You only need to cut the tape according to the size of the repair location and place it there. You will also love that it’s a durable sealant as it can withstand extreme weather conditions with no leaks.
However, users have complained that the sticky glue may melt and ooze out of the taped area, especially under hot weather, leading to leaks. Therefore, I recommend first placing your butyl tape in the freezer before application to prevent these annoying instances of melting.
Pros
- UV and water-resistant
- High reflectivity
- Comes in multi-sizes
- Easy to install
- Durable
Cons
- The sticky glue may melt during installation
6. Alenor Butyl Rubber Tape 1/8″ x 3/4″ x 33 Feet
Are you looking for a suitable butyl tape sealant at a budget-friendly price? If you are, then the Alenor Butyl Rubber Tape will be your perfect find. This sealant tape is highly adhesive to metal, making it an excellent selection for your gutters or metal roofing repair needs.
A pack of one is under 20 dollars, which is relatively cheap compared to other metal roof sealants. Its tape form allows you to cut it into any length for your metal roofing repair needs.
The product’s durability is also unquestionable, as it is strong enough to seal your metal roofing leaks for about ten years without the need for repairs.
How about its heat and water resistance? You may think it must fault a sealant with all these benefits, perhaps its heat and water resistance.
I hate to disappoint your line of thought, but this product is highly water and heat-resistant, allowing it to withstand extreme weather conditions without any leaks.
This product is water and heat-resistant, but it’s also corrosion-resistant. So, worrying about a rusty metal roof or leaks will be a thing of the past.
And the main downside is that this product may only be suitable for reparative uses on your metal roof, such as a roof leak or gutters repair. So, if you are looking for a product that can be used from the start to protect your roof, you may need to get another metal roof sealant.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Heat, corrosion, and water-resistant
- Durable
- Features a risk-free purchase
- Adhesive backing
Cons
- Only suitable for reparative uses
7. Ziollo RV Flex Repair 100% Silicone RV Roof Sealant
While almost all sealants indicate that they are waterproof or water-resistant, getting a 100% waterproof and silicone product is challenging. But, I’ve made your search easier by introducing you to the Ziollo RV Flex Repair product.
This product is 100% waterproof due to its moisture-resistant material, so you don’t have to worry about heavy rain destroying or causing a roof leak from sealant damage.
And if you are big on environmental protection, you don’t have to worry about buying a pollutant in the form of a sealant. It uses a non-hazardous formula, making it safe even for children and pets.
It’s also a pretty flexible product. So whether your metal roof expands or contracts, the sealant remains intact without any cracks ensuring your roof’s protection all season round. You will also love that this product has a lifetime warranty and guarantee.
However, this product is quite expensive compared to other sealants. But, that’s what to expect from a product that gives us all these advantages. So, investing in this product will be worthwhile.
You may also dislike that this product has a shorter shelf life-about two years. So, you may need to buy just enough as it is durable, and it may have reached an expiry date the next time you need to use it for a roof leak.
Pros
- 100% waterproof
- Eco friendly
- Flexible
- Lifetime warranty and guarantee
Cons
- Highly-priced
- Shelf life of two years
8. AMES MSS1 Maximum Stretch Roof Coating
If flexibility in a sealant is your top priority, then the AMES MSS1 Maximum Stretch is excellent for your needs. This product is maximum stretch with a 650 percent elongation that resists cracking and peeling.
So, you can rest assured that your sealant remains unfazed even in the face of extreme weather changes. It’s also a waterproof sealant protecting your roof from damage and any leak caused by water in case of heavy rain.
I also love that it has a white finish. And we all know what white finish means-higher reflectivity, which translates to reduced surface temperatures and cooling costs.
More specifically, this product has 88% reflectivity, which is quite good. It’s also a non-toxic and eco-friendly product making it great for use even when kids and pets are around.
Application of this product is also a breeze. You only need to get your ladder, brush, or painter, and you can spread the sealant on your roof. You’ll have saved yourself the hassle of getting external contractors.
And the cherry on top? This product is budget-friendly. You won’t have to break a bank to enjoy its massive benefits. Its main downside is that manufacturer’s instructions recommend its use on slightly sloped surfaces. So, if you have flat metal roofs, it may not be a suitable product.
Pros
- Offers maximum flexibility
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to use
- Nontoxic and eco friendly
- Waterproof and highly reflective
Cons
- Not suitable for metal flat roofs
How to Choose the Best Sealant For Metal Roof Leak
With tens of metal roof sealants available in the market today, it’s easy to get the wrong sealant for your metal roof leaks or entire roofs. The products reviewed may give you a starting point, but you will still need to learn other important information and buying aspects before choosing. So, let’s dive in.
What is Metal Roof Sealant?
For some, this question may seem misplaced. After all, who doesn’t know what a metal roof sealant is? But, on this site, I strive not to leave anyone behind-from, from the beginner to the expert.
So, what is a metal roof sealant? It’s a material placed or applied on a metal roof to form a barrier against moisture, air, and airborne particles. Consequently, the barrier offers an extra line of defense to the roofs and houses by preventing metal roof leaks- both minor and major ones.
Why do I Need Sealant for a Metal Roof?
You’ve probably heard that prevention is always better than cure. This applies to your metal roof, too, and is a significant reason why you need a high-quality sealant for your metal roof.
You want to protect your entire roof and the house from adverse weather conditions. Metal roof sealants will provide a resilient, viscous cover for your metal roof, ensuring that heavy rain or the scorching sun will not destroy it.
You also need sealant for your metal roof if you hate the frustrations and costs of getting the wrong sealant and constant roof repairs and replacements.
Sealants by protecting your roof reduce the risks of cracks and metal roof leaks caused by seeping moisture. Sealants are also essential to minimize moss and mold growth on your roof.
Moss and mold thrive in damp and moist areas on your roof. Roof sealants will prevent moisture from seeping in, reducing mold growth threats.
You will need to get a waterproof sealant for your metal roof for the best results. And, if you have a flat metal roof, ensure you get the best roof sealants to withstand standing water.
For aesthetic fanatics, having a sealant for your metal roof will help preserve the physical appearance of your roof. The metal roof will not be exposed to the harsh weather keeping it new and maintaining its aesthetic appeal.
Types of Sealant for Metal Roof
Generally speaking, there are two sealants– water-based/liquid sealants and solvent-based sealants. The liquid sealants are made from polymers suspended in a water solution.
Some house owners prefer these sealants due to their affordable price and fewer odors than solvent-based sealants. However, their water-based formula is not as resistant to harsh weather as the other category.
You may need to apply several coats to achieve a thick layer that protects roofs from leaks. These liquid rubber sealants will also degrade faster than the solvent-based.
If you choose these sealants, you may have to undertake regular maintenance to ensure that they serve you for a longer time. So, you may need to reconsider this selection if you want a metal roof sealant that will be pretty resilient even in harsh weather conditions.
On the other hand, solvent-based sealants are thicker and highly resilient even under harsh weather conditions. You will also find that they are harder to apply than water-based sealants.
Due to their high resilience under harsh conditions and durability, they are more expensive, although often referenced as the best sealants.
Digging deeper into these two categories, there are five sealants: acrylic, rubber, silicone, polyurethane, and sealant tape sealants.
One of the most common questions is, which are the best sealants for metal roofs? The quick answer- I recommend silicone sealants and high solids polyether as the best sealants for metal roofs. These sealants have excellent adherence to metal.
They are also quite effective in protecting the metal roof from moisture and UV rays. But, you also need to be aware of the two major types of sealants commonly used for metal roofs- gun caulking sealants and butyl tape.
Gun Caulking Sealant
These metal roof sealants come in caulking tubes or cartridges. You will need caulk guns to use this sealant on the metal roof.
The caulking tubes are loaded onto the caulk guns to aid in the smooth and even application of the sealant. Gun caulking sealants are most appropriate for panel seams, vent pipes, and unfastened metal-to-metal connections.
Butyl Tape
Butyl tape is a type of solvent-based seal tape made from synthetic rubber. It comes in large double-sided rolls with an adhesive backing that sticks to leaks or vulnerable seams.
The butyl tape rolls vary in thickness and width, so you don’t have to worry about this for your metal roof. The sealing tape is also quite affordable and less labor-intensive, making it one of the best sealants for house owners looking for budget-friendly options.
So, where can you use butyl tape? This tape is best applied underneath the pipe cap/boot, Z closure bottom, roof vents, gutters, and offset cleat bottom.
Factors to Consider when Selecting the Best Sealant for a Metal Roof?
I hope I have already convinced you of the need for sealant-whether it’s tape or caulking sealant for your metal roof. But, a question that may still be lingering; how do you select the best sealant for your metal roof?
Most of you may be in a dilemma given the tens of products on the market. Should you get tape or caulking sealant, solvent-based or liquid rubber? Here is what you need to consider while selecting the best sealant for a metal roof.
Purpose of your Sealant
The first question you should ask when selecting the best metal roof sealant is; what is the purpose of this product? Sealants can be used to protect or repair metal roofs.
Some metal roof sealants will work best as a protective layer, while others will work best for repairs. If your purpose for getting roof sealant is protective, I recommend getting a silicone sealant or a high solids polymer.
These sealants have excellent adhesion to metal (both coated and non-coated metal). They are also ultraviolet stable and offer excellent protection against harsh weather conditions.
On the other hand, if your purpose of using sealant on a metal roof is reparative, you can use roof tapes such as fowong Butyl Rubber Aluminum Foil Tape.
You need to consider whether you deal with small leaks or bigger ones. Smaller leaks can use thinner tape, while major leaks should use thicker tape. Tapes are less labor-intensive and cheaper than silicone sealants. However, these sealants are only suitable for use in small roof sections.
Note: You can still use silicone sealants for roof repairs.
Type of Roof
‘Do I have a flat or sloppy roof?’ This is perhaps the most ignored factor when selecting metal roof sealant. I don’t want you to make this mistake, so ensure that you consider your type of roof before choosing a metal roof sealant.
Why? Different types of roofs have different kinds of challenges, which determine the most appropriate sealant. A flat metal roof, for instance, faces the challenge of ponding water, which may be detrimental to the lifespan of your roof.
So, the best roof sealants for a flat metal roof should be ones that protect the roof from ponding water, such as a silicone-based sealant.
Waterproofing and Reflectivity Quotient
A common idea I have come across in my career as a roofing solutions expert is that all sealants are waterproof. This is partially misleading information.
All roof sealants will offer some level of waterproofing, but very few of them offer complete waterproofing. If you want a completely waterproof sealant, ensure that you go through the manufacturer’s labels and instructions to identify if your sealant choice is entirely waterproof.
You can also reach out to the manufacturer or get our waterproof recommendation, the Ziollo RV Flex Repair 100% Silicone RV Roof Sealant.
You also need to consider the reflectivity quotient of your metal roof sealant before purchase, especially if you live in a hot area. I recommend a sealant with a higher reflectivity quotient to keep your house cooler during summer.
You will also save an extra coin, as the sealant with a higher reflectivity will significantly reduce your cooling-related energy bills. And if you are wondering how to determine the reflectivity quotient, it’s easy. Check the product label as manufacturers indicate the amount of UV rays that the product can deflect. If there is no indication, go for white or light-colored sealants if you need a product with high reflectivity and dark-colored sealants if you need a product with lower reflectivity rates.
Color of Sealant
You all know that I am an aesthetics enthusiast- I love beautiful roofs and houses in general. So, if you love an aesthetically pleasing roof like me, you may need to consider the color of the sealant before purchase.
I recommend selecting a metal roof sealant whose color matches your roof. If you can’t find a matching color, strive to get a paintable metal roof sealant.
Budget
Lastly, yet importantly, you need to consider your budget for sealant. You will find both water-based and solvent-based sealants for a metal roof in the market. Water-based sealants are generally cheaper than solvent-based ones.
So, if you are on a tight budget, you can get a water-based sealant such as the Liquid Rubber Color Waterproof Sealant. However, remember that water-based sealants, despite their friendly price, are less resilient to extreme weather conditions.
They also have shorter durability meaning they may call for frequent repairs and replacements, which can be quite frustrating. But, I love to remind house owners-if you don’t invest in proper application, the price of your sealant will not matter.
So, always ensure you engage professional help if you are not well acquainted with sealant application. If you are into DIY, ensure that you remove the roof sealant applied previously with a plastic putty knife before applying any new sealant.
Sealing a Metal Roof Leak FAQs
Is it necessary to use metal roof sealant?
Yes, it’s necessary to use metal roof sealant as a protective seal for your entire roof and house. A metal roof sealant will protect your roof from water intrusion by providing a watertight seal. Thus, your roof will have a lower risk of damage and metal roof leaks.
Which is the best metal roof sealant?
I recommend Loctite PL S30 Black Roof and Flashing Sealant 10-Fluid Ounce Cartridge (1618181). This quality product will offer durability and top-notch performance outperforming all other sealants.
How long will metal roof sealant last on my roof?
How long metal roof sealant lasts on the roof depends on the product brand. However, most metal roof sealants will last between 10-and 20 years on your roof. So, you will have to change your metal roof sealant as the metal roof lasts longer than the sealant to prevent metal roof leaks. You can determine when to change the product by conducting regular roof inspections.
Where should I apply sealant on my metal roof?
You can apply sealants on the metal roof wherever there is an area vulnerable to water penetration to prevent metal roof leaks. These areas include; joints, overlaps, trims, gutters, downspouts, gaps, metal end laps, fasteners, and seams.
What is the best way to seal a leaking metal roof?
The best way to seal a metal roof leak is using a high solids polyether or silicone sealant such as Ziollo RV Flex Repair 100% Silicone RV Roof Sealant. These products will effectively protect your roof from UV radiation, ensure excellent water resistance and adhere well to metal roofs. However, I always recommend seeking the help of a professional to determine the best type of sealant for your metal roof.