Can You Paint A Shingle Roof?

The short answer is yes. But the real question is, should you? There are pros and cons, so here’s what you need to know.

Most types of shingle roofing can be painted. However, you can’t use any kind of paint, so it’s best to have a professional do the job. Shingle roofs must be painted with 100% acrylic latex paint. Using the wrong paint on your shingle roof can cause more damage than if you didn’t paint it at all. The wrong paint can prevent moisture that may already be on your roof from drying. The buildup of moisture can eventually lead to roof rot and destroy your entire roof.

There are a few good reasons to paint your shingle roof. It’s the easiest and most cost-effective way to update the look of your home. A coat of paint on your roof can act as a protectant against debris that, over time, can cause serious damage to your shingle roof.

Painting your shingle roof white or lighter shades of blue, green, gray, or even yellow will reflect heat away from your home. This is one of the biggest benefits of painting your shingle roof. It will keep your home cooler, saving you money on your energy bill.

While having your shingle roof painted provides great benefits, it goes without saying that more maintenance will be necessary. Your shingle roof will have to be repainted every few years for maximum performance. Hire a roofing expert to paint your shingle roofing instead of painting it yourself. They will know how to properly prep your shingle roof before painting it and can ensure the type of shingle roof you have can actually be painted.

Can You Put Roof Coating On A Shingle Roof?

So if you can paint a shingle roof, then you must be able to put a roof coating on a shingle roof too, right? Well, it depends.

Some roofing professionals recommend coating your shingle roof while others do not, and the two sides argue with each other on this subject. On the one hand, some professionals recommend coating your shingle roof with an asphalt shingle roof coating to extend the life of your roof. The coating prevents the granules from breaking away and falling off, which usually happens after a heavy storm. Coating your roof also prevents cracks, curling, and leaks.

On the other hand, we don’t recommend coating your shingle roof. Coating your shingle roof too soon after a storm can trap moisture under the shingles, damaging your roof and leading to mold growth. As with painting your roof, coating it can do more harm than good if not done properly.

It can be hard to decide if you should coat your shingle roof or not, so speak with a roofing expert for help.

If you live in the Phoenix area, Overson Roofing is your Phoenix expert, fill out our form or call us at (480) 354-2564 for help with your shingle roof repair or replacement. 

Read more: How Much Does It Cost To Re-Shingle A Roof?