Metal roofs are renowned for their strength, durability, and, unfortunately, their susceptibility to rust. This pesky rust can result in leaks, leading to water damage to structures beneath the roof. Luckily, with Liquid Rubber Metal Roof Paint, you can effectively prevent rust, thereby safeguarding your roof from wind damage and leaks.
The Importance of Sealing Your Metal Roof
Metal roof sealants play a key role in protecting your roof from rust and damage caused by wind. Storms often result in lost fasteners, parts, or pieces of the roof, compromising its integrity. Applying a waterproof sealant not only protects your roof from these factors, but also enhances its appearance. Older metal roofs that show signs of aging benefit significantly from a fresh coat of sealant.
Moreover, sealing your metal roof with something like Liquid Rubber can also help you save on energy bills by reducing heat absorption. The expansion and contraction of metal due to high temperatures can be minimized with the right sealant. In addition, a well-sealed roof is easier to maintain, saving you time and money in the long run.
What Contributes to a Leaky Metal Roof?
If you’re unsure whether your metal roof is leaking, you might want to inspect it. Certain signs can indicate potential damage:
- Loose or missing fasteners
- Damaged panels
- Open headwall or flashing
- Missing trim
- Loose gutters and downspouts
- Gaps in seams
- Rust damage and holes
These issues can lead to water damage on your metal roof and the structures beneath it. One way to prevent these problems is by using a waterproof tape for the roof, such as Liquid Rubber Seam Tape, along with Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant.
How to Fix a Leaky Roof
Noticing that your roof is leaking, or wanting to protect it from rust and the elements, doesn’t mean you need to hire an expensive contractor to apply a protective coating. With Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant, you can protect, beautify, and waterproof your metal roof yourself, thereby saving a significant amount of money. Here are the basic steps to waterproofing your metal roof:
- Tighten, add, or replace all loose fasteners.
- Remove any loose debris and brush off loose rust.
- Clean by power-washing large surfaces, and use acetone on smaller surfaces.
- Allow the roof to dry thoroughly after power-washing.
- Apply Liquid Rubber Seam Tape to any seams or cracks longer than 1/8th of an inch.
- Use a metal-safe caulking gel on smaller seams and cracks, smoothing the material after application.
- Apply Liquid Rubber Seam Tape around vents, flashing and protrusions.
- Paint Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant over seam tape around vents, flashing and protrusions to seal.
- Apply Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant on the entire roof with a brush, roller or sprayer.
- Allow the sealant to dry between coats.
- Apply a colored or reflective top coat, if desired.
If certain areas of the roof have a significant amount of rust, apply Liquid Rubber Multi-Purpose Primer before applying Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant. If the roof is heavily rusted, use Liquid Rubber Metal Safe Sealant.
The best time to waterproof your metal roof is when you can avoid hot, direct sunlight while temperatures remain above 5C/40F. You also want to avoid starting your project if there’s a forecast for rain. For areas prone to morning dew, start early in the day to allow time for drying between coats and for the final coat to dry before the next morning.
A Case Study on Waterproofing a Metal Roof
In one case study, a homeowner in North Carolina had been unsuccessful in sealing his metal roof to stop leaks and prevent damage to his home. Replacing the roof entirely would have been very costly. First, he removed loose rust and debris and power-washed the surface to prepare it for sealing. He then applied Liquid Rubber Seam Tape to bridge the joints, seams, chimneys, flashing and other areas that had gaps. Finally, he applied three heavy coats of Dark Grey Waterproof Sealant. His roof is now leak-free and looks great!
Why Choose Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant?
Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant will not only help you waterproof your metal roof for less, but also protect it from rust and damage from the elements. Your older roof will receive a much-needed facelift, which will beautify your home and add to its value. Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant is solvent-free, non-toxic, water-based and safe for use around pets and family members.
In addition to this, Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant is the ideal product for DIYers due to its ease of use, affordability, and reliability. It’s VOC-free and nontoxic, making it a safe and effective option for sealing metal roofs.