Metal roofing provides an alternative to traditional asphalt shingle roofs, that are both beautiful and durable. Metal roofing often lasts for decades with very little maintenance or repair.

Over many years, these roofs normally require repainting to restore their appearance and protect the roof from corrosion. With the typical home, one can easily repaint the entire roof in one weekend. When done correctly, the metal roof will look like new.

Follow these steps in order;

1. Scrape away all loose paint using your putty knife. A wire brush or sandpaper may also help loosen areas that are hard to reach.

2. Remove all rust using your wire brush or sandpaper.

3. Sand the entire metal roof surface very lightly with your wire brush or sandpaper. Try to achieve a slightly abraded, textured finish, as this helps your new paint bond with the roof finish.

4. Add 1 cup of any mild dish or laundry detergent to 5 gallons of warm water. Use the water and some rags or towels to clean your roof and remove any dust, debris or grease.

5. Rinse the roof with a hose to remove all soap and debris. Wait for the surface to dry completely before proceeding.

6. Coat the entire metal roof surface with a rust-inhibiting primer. Choose a product designed for use on outdoor metal applications. Apply the primer with a roller, using a paint brush to access small areas or tight corners.

7. Allow the primer to dry completely before painting. Follow instructions on the primer can to calculate drying time.

8. Paint over the primed roof surface using an acrylic latex paint designed for outdoor metal applications. Apply the paint using a roller or brush as desired.

9. Wait for the paint to dry completely, then apply a second coat using a roller or brush.