If your home’s roof has become dull and faded, then you might wonder can you paint roof shingles. Most people who consider this are thinking about doing it as a cost-saving move instead of more expensive shingle replacement. The short answer is yes, you can paint over your roof shingles if it’s done correctly.
Good Reasons to Paint Your Roof Shingles
Before you rush out and buy shingle paint, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are the pros and cons of shingle painting.
Cost Savings
It was already mentioned that by painting your shingle you may be able to temporarily avoid more costly shingle replacement. This is definitely a cheaper way to extend the useful life of your shingles and make them look better at the same time.
Color Change
When you go to paint your shingles, you will have the option to paint your roof the color that you want. It’s a great time to pick a color that will accentuate the exterior looks of your home. You don’t get many color choices when it comes to asphalt shingles.
Better Shingle Protection
You can’t paint shingles with anything but high-quality paint. Because that’s the case, you will be putting down a thick layer of paint over your shingles. This will help protect them against the elements much better. A good slick coat of paint will also help your shingles shed water easier too.
Promotes Energy Savings
Now that you have an answer to can you paint roof shingles, you should also be aware that you may get some savings on your energy bill because of this. That’s because a thick layer of paint will add to your roof’s insulating capability and this could result in savings on home heating and cooling bills. A lighter color paint will also reflect some of the sun’s powerful rays and cut cooling costs further.
Why Shingle Painting May Be a Bad Idea
Painting roof shingles aren’t always the best solution to roof repairs and maintenance though. Here are some reasons you might want to reconsider your decision if you’re planning to DIY roof shingle painting.
The Risk of Increased Heat Damage
Painting your shingle has a risk of making your shingle obtain a higher temperature during daily heat cycles. This increases the potential for shingle warping and more extreme expansion and contraction periods can damage your shingle and further take away from its useful life. This is probably the biggest risk with shingle painting.
It Needs to Be Professionally Done
Since you are now aware if can you paint roof shingles, it should also be made clear that this should be professionally done. That means you will have to go to the expense of hiring a paint contractor. You will also probably have trouble finding a professional painter that is interested in getting up on your roof and doing the job.
Less Peace of Mind
Sure, your roof may look better once it has been painted but don’t forget your roof is an integral structural component of your home. Painting your roof does not give you any guarantee that your roof is more watertight or that your older shingle will hold up better against extreme elements such as wind, snow, ice, and hail. This is exactly the opposite of a new layer of shingle that is properly laid down. It will help ensure that your roof is kept watertight and your roof will be less susceptible to extreme weather conditions.
Contact Us for Professional Roof Painting in Bethlehem, GA
Can you paint roof shingles? Yes, you can. However, it must be done with care and by a professional to ensure that your roof won’t be damaged. If you’re looking for roof repairs and other roof services in Bethlehem, Monroe, Lawrenceville, Loganville, Athens, and the surrounding areas, contact Roofing and Remodeling Plus. You may reach us at 770-670-4500 to request a free estimate!
