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Can old roof tiles be painted?

red tiles painted
If you’re a homeowner in Adelaide, you may wonder if those old, crusty tiles your roof is currently sporting can be refreshed and re-painted. Of course, painting roof tiles is an excellent method to boost kerb appeal, the health of your roof, and the value of your home. However, before you begin the laborious task of slathering your roof in a fresh coat of paint, it’s important to answer a few crucial questions that we’re sure are buzzing around in your mind. That’s why in this blog post, we’ll examine the important role that painting plays in the maintenance of your property, discuss how to choose the best paint for your project, whether you should go the DIY route, and if your roof can (or should) be repainted in the first place. If you’re curious to learn more, then be sure to read on!

Why is painting roof tiles so important?

Roof painting can essentially be considered a form of roof restoration. Quality roof paint helps to seal tiles off from environmental factors, reducing their porosity and boosting their resistance to nasty microorganisms, such as moss, algae and mould. This is especially important in Adelaide, where cool and wet winters can create the perfect conditions for these fuzzy fellows to thrive.

Tile roof painting can also result in a more heat-reflective roof, meaning less heat will be absorbed into your home, reducing cooling bills and making your house more energy-efficient. Aesthetically, a freshly-painted roof also adds a particular charm to your home or property’s exterior. For those looking to turn up the curb appeal in preparation for a sale, new roof paints can give your home the extra sprucing it needs to attract potential buyers. With countless benefits to a newly painted roof, you may be scratching your head as to why we’re not telling you to pick up a paintbrush and get to work- but there are a few things you should consider first.

Choosing the right paint for your roof tiles

No one goes to the trouble of re-painting their roof with the intent of their hard work enduring only a few short seasons. As such, it is vital to ensure that you choose the right, high-quality paint for your roof tiles. More often than not, this means selecting a specialised product. For optimal results, we always recommend looking for products specially formulated for outdoor surfaces with exceptional durability and waterproofing under UV exposure. Be sure to read the product labels, as some paints work better with certain roof tile materials. The kind of paint you choose should be based on whether or not you’re looking to give concrete roof tiles or even steel roof tiles a fresh coat.

Can old terracotta tiles be painted?

Unfortunately, we do not recommend re-painting terracotta roof tiles. The first thing to know about terracotta is that it is a natural, porous material, meaning that not all paints will adhere properly. Terracotta tiles tend to absorb the paint, robbing it of its colour and lustre in the process. Many terracotta tiles also have an outer layer of finish called the ‘glaze’ (yes, just like the one on pottery) that protects the clay from moisture and other environmental factors. As you may have guessed, adding a new layer of paint to a glazed surface is challenging. In fact, the glaze often results in the paint stubbornly refusing to adhere to the tile. At best, it will have an uneven finish and peel away quickly. As a result, you risk having an inconsistent, blotchy-looking roof that leaves you worse off than when you started! In many cases, dilapidated terracotta tiled roofs require a roof replacement. While a roof replacement is a more expensive endeavour, for homeowners seeking a roof that is easier to maintain this presents an excellent opportunity to opt for alternative roofing materials, such as concrete tiles or colorbond.

Why we recommend Dulux Acratex.

At All roof Restorations Adelaide, we consider Dulux Acratex a premium solution for a genuinely flawless and long-lasting finish. Dulux Acratex is a 100% acrylic coating specifically formulated to protect and enhance concrete, cement or metal roof tiles in Australia’s diverse climates. It has superior waterproofing properties and excellent adhesion, which allows it to withstand everything from the scorching sun to frosty mornings – perfect for Adelaide! If you’re interested in professionally treating your roof tiles with Dulux Acratex, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’d be happy to advise you on the best type of paint for your roof and provide a free quote!

Does painting roof tiles last?

When done correctly, a tile roof painted with the right product can last up to 15 years or more. To give the longevity of your freshly painted roof a well-deserved boost, it’s essential to keep your roof tiles clean and well-maintained. Using a soft cloth or brush to clear dirt and debris regularly will help to prevent tannin stains. Additionally, if there are any durable plant infestations or mosses on the tiles, make sure to use an appropriate fungicide or moss killer that won’t harm the paint.
Roof restoration after image

DIY or Call in the Pros?

Painting your roof tiles is a serious undertaking that should never be undertaken lightly, or without due preparation. Depending on the size of your property, your existing experience, and the tools you have at your disposal, you may wish to consider calling in professional painters. Licensed and experienced contractors will have the knowledge to ensure that your roof looks its best and offers maximum protection. If you decide to DIY the job, ensure you are properly equipped with all necessary safety equipment and materials before beginning.
roof tiles painted by professional

Taking advantage of warranties

Another thing to consider is the importance of warranties. Professional roof painters will typically offer guarantees on their work, so if something goes wrong in the future, you’ll be able to rest assured that the issue will be remedied. DIYers don’t always have this luxury and may end up paying more down the line to fix any mistakes that were made. At All Roof Restoration, we are confident in the quality and longevity of our work and offer comprehensive warranties on all our roof painting projects. As a certified Dulux applicator, our team offers a Dulux 15 Year Roof Restoration Warranty with each completed project. If you’re looking for true peace of mind with your roof painting, this is the perfect solution.

What if my roof is too damaged to be re-painted?

If a roof has suffered too much wear and tear to be successfully repainted, even by skilled professionals, it may simply have outlived its useful lifespan. In more severe cases, a total roof replacement may be necessary. A roof replacement is a complicated and involved procedure that requires the expertise, skill, and labour of skilled tradespeople. Fortunately, our team at All Roof Restoration Adelaide is fully equipped to handle any roof replacement requirements. If you have any questions about the condition of your roof, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team. We will be happy to provide you with a free, no-obligation evaluation and a detailed quote that you can be confident in.

That's a wrap!

We hope this article has been helpful in providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision on painting your roof tiles. Whether you opt for DIY or call in a professional, we wish you the best of luck with your project. If you’re looking for further advice, or wish to obtain a free quote on painting your roof with Dulux Acratex in Adelaide, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our experienced staff is ready and waiting to assist you with all your roofing needs!

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