Can Asphalt Roof Shingles Be Painted? The idea of painting your roof may appear like a simple repair for damaged shingles, but it can result in thousands of dollars of hidden damage. The majority of roofing brands void warranties when roofing shingles are painted. Homeowners are faced with a dilemma: improve the appearance of their roof or run the risk of the long-term consequences. This guide explains how to paint asphalt roofing shingles, pros and cons, and safer methods to improve the appearance of your roof.
The Short Answer
Yes, however, with some caveats:
- Use only roof coatings made of elastomeric made for asphalt shingles.
- Proper preparation and application are crucial to avoid the trapping of moisture and warranty problems.
- Painting is a fix for a short time (5-7 years) instead of replacing roof shingles (20-30 decades).
When not to paint:
- If your shingles are curly or cracked, they may be missing grains (signs they are in need of replacement).
- In the event that your roofing is in warranty (most are not), then you cannot paint it.
Check out the Commercial Roofing services here!
Risks of Painting Asphalt Shingles
1. Traps Moisture & Causes Rot
- Paint seals shingles, preventing the evaporation process and leading to the deck rotting or developing mold.
- The flaking or peeling of paint can expose asphalt to UV rays, which can cause damage and accelerate wear.
2. Voided Warranty
- The majority of manufacturers, including GAF will explicitly disclaim claims when shingles are painted because it affects the performance of their shingles.
3. Reduced Lifespan
- The brittleness of shingles that are painted is increased due to the increase in heat absorption.
- Recoiling is recommended every five years, resulting in increased labor costs.
These dangers are what make the shingles invalid warranty the most important issue. Check out Roofing Installation Services here!
Better Alternatives to Painting
1. Roof Cleaning
- Make use of a gentle wash using the 50:50 mix of bleach and water to eliminate stains and algae.
- Costs $0.20-$0.50/sq ft and maintains the integrity of the shingle.
2. Shingle Overlays
- Certain states permit the use of a second layer of shingles (check the local codes).
- More durable than painting, however, it is less durable than replacing.
3. Full Replacement
- Install energy-efficient cool roof shingles that reflect heat and improve appearance.
- Lasts 20-30 years and comes with a warranty guarantee.
These are safe ways to revive the look of shingles on your roof that have faded. Check out Roof Replacement and Roof Repair Services!
Final Thoughts
Can Asphalt Roof Shingles Be Painted? The painting of asphalt shingles is often an easy way to solve bigger issues. It can cause damage to the roof is a risk, void warranties, and reduce the lifespan of your roof. Instead, you should consider replacing or cleaning the shingles to revive worn roof shingles securely. If your roof shingles appear damaged, clean them or replace them; don’t bet on paint. Contact OnlyRoofing today!
