Painting Your Roof? Here Are 5 Supplies You’ll Need

If you own a home or plan to in the future, you should know that your roof may need a fresh coat of paint at some point. Painting your roof will extend its life and update its look, but it can be potentially hazardous. For your own personal safety, gather these five supplies before you start your roof project.

Extension Ladder

An extension ladder is crucial for accessing your roof. You will want to invest or locate one that is sturdy, and tall enough to help you reach your roof. Before setting up the ladder, make sure the ground is free from snow, ice, or anything else that would cause slippage. Check that the ladder hooks are locked into place before stepping onto the ladder, and follow any other safety guidelines outlined by the manufacturer.

Pressure Washer

Your roof is constantly exposed to the elements and accumulates a lot of dirt and grime. Before painting, you must clear any surfaces of build-up to ensure the paint takes hold and produces a smooth, clean finish. Pressure washing is the most efficient way to clean your roof. If you don’t own a pressure washer, you can rent one from a hardware store or hire someone to complete the task for you. Not only is this a beneficial step for your roof, it is also immensely satisfying to do.

Paint Respirator or Face Mask

There’s always a risk of inhaling fumes anytime paint is involved, so it’s important to wear a mask, even if you are working outdoors. Make sure to choose one that’s rated for paint particles rather than a regular cloth or medical mask, as these are not suitable for the job. If you like completing your own home improvement projects, a reusable paint respirator would be a good choice because you can use it again later. If you prefer a disposable mask, N95 masks are easy to find and provide the needed protection. You can find them online or at your local hardware store.

Paint Spray Gun

Painting your entire roof is a big job, so make it easy on yourself by buying or renting a paint spray gun, rather than relying on a traditional paint roller. A paint spray gun uses compressed air to spray atomized paint, which produces a more uniform, consistent layer than if you were painting by hand. Don’t forget to clean the paint gun thoroughly after each use to keep it functioning correctly, and store it in a safe place to maintain its integrity.

Roof Coating

After you’ve painted your roof, protect your work by sealing it with a layer of coating. Choose a color match roof coating, like a fluoropolymer coating, which comes in a variety of colors to match any rooftop shade. This type of coating provides superior shielding from extreme temperatures, acid rain, and general wear-and-tear, and is the perfect last step to a successful roof paint job.

Repainting your roof may seem like a bizarre home chore, but it is both an easy way to update your home’s look with one step, and a way to improve its integrity, longevity, and usefulness. However, it can be potentially damaging or dangerous, with working from a high standpoint and working with paints and sealants. If your roof is in need of a refresh but you don’t feel up to the task, consider hiring professionals who can complete the project safely. Either way, painting and sealing your roof will be a beneficial and necessary step to maintaining your home’s safety and security for years to come.