Have you ever looked up at your roof and wondered if it could use a fresh coat of paint? If so, you’re not alone! Many homeowners feel the same way. But before you pick up a paintbrush, you should know that not all roofs can be painted.
This blog post will cover some of the basics you need to know before painting your roof tiles. We will also advise how to select the right paint and what preparation is necessary for a successful painting job. Keep reading to learn more.
Can you Paint Roof Tiles?
So can you paint roof tiles? The answer is yes. You can paint most roof tiles like slate, concrete, and clay roof tiles. However, you cannot paint terracotta roof tiles. Terracotta tiles are glazed with a sealer (ceramic glaze) that helps to protect the tile from the elements and prevents the paint from adhering to the surface. This makes painting terracotta roof tiles impossible.
If you’re interested in painting your roof tiles, it’s important to choose high-quality exterior paint specifically designed for use on roof tiles.
It’s also important to carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that the paint adheres properly and doesn’t damage the roof tiles.
Pros and Cons of Painting Roof Tiles
Painting roof tiles come along with its fair share of pros and cons. Below is a list of the pros and cons of painting roof tiles.
Pros
1. Aesthetically Pleasing Roof
Most homeowners opt to paint their roof tiles to achieve a certain aesthetic look for their homes. A painted roof can drastically change the look of your home for the better and increase its curb appeal.
2. Protection from the elements
One of the main advantages of painting roof tiles is providing an extra layer of protection from the sun, wind, and rain. This is especially beneficial in areas with harsh weather conditions. In addition, by painting your roof tiles, you can help extend the lifespan of your roof.
3. Affordable option
Painting roof tiles is generally more affordable than replacing your entire roof. It is also less disruptive than other methods of roof repair or replacement.
4. Can be done as a DIY project
If you are handy and have the time, painting roof tiles is a project you can do yourself. Of course, you will need to invest in quality painting supplies, but the overall cost will still be lower than having a professional do the job.
5. Prevents growth of Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew can cause your roof tiles to deteriorate and break down over time. By painting your roof tiles, you create a barrier that prevents the growth of mold and mildew. This will help prolong the life of your roof and keep it looking its best.
6. Helps to Reflect Heat
Dark roof tiles absorb heat, making your home uncomfortably warm during the summer months. By painting your roof tiles white or a light color, you can help reflect heat away from your home, keeping it cooler and more comfortable.
7. Increases the Value of Your Home
A well-maintained home is always more valuable than one that isn’t cared for. So you increase your home’s curb appeal by painting your roof tiles and making it more attractive to potential buyers should you ever decide to sell.
8. Improve Energy Efficiency
Painting your roof tiles white or light color can help improve your home’s energy efficiency. Dark colors absorb heat, while light colors reflect it. This can help keep your home cooler in the summer, lowering energy bills.
9. Easy to Maintain
Once your roof tiles are painted, they are very easy to maintain. Simple washing with soap and water is usually all needed to keep them looking clean and new.
Cons
1. Limited color options
When painting roof tiles, you are limited to the available color options. This may be due to the type of paint available or the color of the tile itself.
2. Limited durability
Painted roof tiles are not as durable as unpainted ones. The paint can chip and fade over time, especially when exposed to direct sunlight or extreme weather conditions.
3. Can be difficult to apply
It can be difficult to apply the paint evenly on roof tiles, especially if they are textured. This can result in an uneven finish that is not very aesthetically pleasing.
4. Can be expensive
Paint can be expensive, especially if you need a large amount to cover a whole roof. You may also need to hire a professional to help with the application process, adding to the overall cost.
5. Painting is not a permanent solution
Painting is not a permanent solution and will need to be redone every few years to maintain its appearance. This can be a time-consuming and expensive process.
6. Paint can’t protect your roof from serious damage
Paint can’t protect your roof from serious damage, such as cracking or leaks. If your roof requires repair, painting it will not fix the problem. You’ll still need to have the repairs done in addition to painting the roof.
7. Not all types of roofs can be painted
Terracotta roofs and shingles are made of asphalt or fiberglass and cannot be painted. It’s best to consult with a professional before purchasing paint for your tile roof.
Types of Roof Tiles
Various types of roof tiles widen the range of aesthetic possibilities for your home. Here is a list of the most common types of tile roofs;
Terracotta Roof Tiles
The most popular type of roof tile, terracotta, is a natural product made from kiln-fired clay. It is strong, durable, and provides good insulation against heat and cold.
This type of roof comes in two;
Glazed terracotta roof tiles
These have a hard, glossy surface and come in various colors. They are more expensive than unglazed tiles but provide better protection against the elements.
Unglazed terracotta roof tiles;
These have a natural, matte finish and are available in earthy colors. They are less expensive than glazed tiles but must be sealed to protect them from the weather.
Clay Roof Tiles
Clay tiles have been used for centuries and are still a popular choice among homeowners looking for an elegant, timeless look. Clay roof tiles come in a wide range of colors, including natural earth tones, and can be glazed to create a glossy finish. Clay roof tiles are extremely durable and can last long with constant maintenance.
Concrete Roof Tiles
Concrete roof tiles (cement roof tiles) are more affordable than clay and offer many same benefits. Concrete tiles come in a wide range of colors and styles, including those that mimic the look of clay or slate. Although concrete roof tile may require more maintenance than clay tiles, concrete roof tile is also very durable.
Slate Roof Tiles
Slate roof tiles are made from natural stone and offer your home a unique and beautiful look. They are also very durable, with a long lifespan. However, slate roof tiles can be expensive, so it’s important to know if you can paint them before purchasing.
Metal Roof Tiles
Metal roof tiles are a popular choice for homeowners looking for a modern look. While metal roof tiles are durable, they can be susceptible to high winds or hail damage. If you live in an area with severe weather, it is important to inspect your metal roof tiles regularly for damage.
Solar Roof Tiles
Solar roof tiles are an increasingly popular choice for homeowners looking to reduce their energy bills and carbon footprint. They come attached with solar panels that use the sun’s energy to generate electricity, which powers your home.
Solar roof tiles are also durable and low-maintenance, making them great for reducing their environmental impact without sacrificing quality or performance.
Difference Between Glazed and Unglazed Tiles
The roof tiles markets are flooded with glazed tiles. However, there are also unglazed tiles that roofers may go for based on the outlook they need for their roofs.
Glazed Tiles
Glazed tiles are often mistaken for a glossy finish. However, in the tiles industry, a glazed tile is described by the material that has been used to coat it. Some of the materials used for glazed tiles include enamel or liquid glass. The glazed tiles have a matt finish to offer a distinct look from the space.
Besides, the glazed tiles are resistant to stains as the liquid glass has a non-porous finish and is scratch-resistant. They are, however, less thick and denser than the unglazed tiles. They can be made by putting a coated tile into the kiln for firing.
Unglazed Tiles
Unglazed tiles are coated with clay or porcelain. The process involves putting the tiles in a kiln for firing. The clay coating is, however, done after firing. If it is done before firing, it may result in glazed tiles as firing infuses the glaze into the top layer of the tile’s clay. The tile types look earthier and natural.
Unlike the glazed tiles with a non-porous and scratch-resistant finish that enhances their resistance to staining, the unglazed tiles are prone to stains due to their natural finish. They are also denser and thicker compared to glazed tiles.
How to Clean Tile Roofs Before Painting
Cleaning the tiles before painting is essential. This ensures that the paint will adhere properly and that the roof will have a uniform appearance. Below are a few steps you to prepare your tile roof for painting;
1. Inspect for damaged tiles
Inspect your roof for cracked or chipped tiles using a roof harness and a ladder. These will need to be replaced before proceeding.
2. Pressure wash the roof
Use a good pressure washer to remove any loose particles, debris, and moss from the surface of the tiles. Be sure to use a gentle setting on the pressure washer not to damage the tile.
3. Use a Rust Remover
Rust remover can remove any rust stains from the tiles and the carpet side.
4. Spray primer
Use an oil-based primer and spray the entire roof. You should apply a spray primer to ensure that the paint adheres properly. Ensure to follow the manufacturer’s directions for the best results.
5. Allow the roof to dry
After cleaning, allow the roof to dry completely before painting. This could take a few days, depending on the weather conditions.
Best Paint for Roof Tiles
The best paint for roof tiles will give you the best protection against the elements and last the longest. There are a few different paints that you can use on roof tiles.
The best one to use is exterior acrylic paint. This type of paint will give you a protective finish that will not fade or peel over time.
1. NARAJO – Coloured Roof Coating, Sealant Paint
Narjo is a spray-type colored roof coating paint that decorates and protects your roof. It is a sealant paint that is ready to use for your roof’s waterproofing. This product is ideal for use on all types of roofs, including tiles, asphalt roof shingles, corrugated iron, and more.
Narjo paint prevents moisture, mold, and dirt from building up on your roof. It is also resistant to fading, chalking, and cracking.
Using the paint is pretty easy. Use an airless sprayer to apply the paint on a clean surface. Remember to protect areas you don’t want to paint with old clothes or newspapers.
2. BEHR-1-gal-RP-26-Spanish-Tile-Flat-Multi-Surface-Exterior-Roof-Paint
This is 100% acrylic paint designed for use on multiple surfaces. The paint is also fade-resistant. You can use BEHR to paint roof shingles, roofs, and more.
The paint goes on smoothly and provides excellent coverage. It is also very easy to clean up with just soap and water. The coating is also UV resistant and will not fade over time. It is also mildew resistant.
BEHR can withstand harsh weather conditions and will not peel or crack over time. This makes it an excellent choice for a tiled roof.
When applying BEHR paint to roof tiles, it is important to use a high-quality primer first. This will help the paint to adhere better and last longer. It is also important to use a paint sprayer, brush, or roller specifically designed for tile roofs. This will help to avoid damaging the tiles.
How to Paint Roof Tiles – Step by Step
Below are a few steps on how to paint roof tiles;
Step 1: Inspection and Repair
The first step to painting the tile roof involves examining any loose bedding, damaged tiles, and lichen that may be present on the roof. Once identified, the damages are fixed. The faulty tiles can also be replaced and the growth removed from the roof tiles.
Step 2: Cleaning
Cleaning the tile roofs is a crucial task. The process involves using a high-pressure washer at a minimum of 3000psi. The high pressure will ensure that the roof is wholly cleaned for any potential dirt or stains. You can include stain removers when washing to enhance the cleaning efficiency.
Step 3: Re-bed and Repoint
The process involves the replacement of the broken tiles and re-bedding the ridge capping. The repoint involves utilizing global paint to apply and repoint a clean and dry surface through the utilization of a trowel. The process should be executed with a sunny forecast, especially when you project to experience unexpected rain.
Step 4: Sterilization
The sterilization involves the removal of the molds or fungi embedded in the tile roofs. The roofer will apply a prepcote using an atomizing gun on the molds and fungi.
Step 5: Surface Sealed
Upon applying the prepcote, it should be left to dry for 4 hours before applying the prime-coat sealer primer to the whole roof area. The full coverage of the surface can be determined through a visible shine.
Step 6: Apply first coat
The first coat is then applied to the tile roof of the infracote membrane. The application should be done at a speed of 5m2 per liter.
Step 7: Apply Second Coat
The second coat application is made through the same process and rate as with the first coat. You will then allow the coat to dry at the end of the process.
How to Maintain Tile Roofs
There are a few key ways to maintain tile roofs and protect them from damage.
Schedule Annual Inspections
It’s important to regularly inspect the roof for any cracked or broken tiles. These can be replaced with new ones to prevent water from seeping in and causing further damage.
Proper Cleaning of the Roof
You should ensure that your roof is properly cleaned before applying the paint. Roof cleaning helps protect the paint from peeling off. To effectively clean the roof, use a high-pressure washer and an effective cleaning substance to help with dirt removal, mold, and potential signs of growths such as vegetation between the shingles.
You must also check the pores of the roofing materials for these pores. After cleaning, ensure that you give the roofs enough time to dry before applying the paints.
Invest in Good Quality Paint
Investing in quality paint is the first requisite to improving the longevity of your paint. Before purchasing paint for your roof, ensure that it has the proper composition to withstand weather exposure. It would help if you also guaranteed the paint has high-end color pigments to enhance its UV stability.
Apply the Paints Based on the Recommendations by the Manufacturers
This is yet another essential consideration when applying paints. The manufacturers have given individual manuals to help the users with the appropriate process of paint application.
The paints can extend by up to 15 years with correct application, ensuring that you maintain the aesthetic and attractive roof, free of algae and molds.
Top Flashing and Sealant Check
Inspect the top flashing and sealant around vents, chimneys, and skylights. If there are any gaps or cracks, seal them with caulk or replace the flashing.
Timely Repairs
Make any necessary repairs as soon as possible to prevent small problems from turning into bigger ones.
Conclusion
Yes, you can paint your roof tiles. Painting roof tiles is a great way to protect them from weather damage and prolong their lifespan. However, ensure to use high-quality, weatherproof paint and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.