Metal Roof Fading

If you have a metal roof or are considering getting one, you should be prepared for it to fade and chalk over time. However, this is just one thing to be aware of when deciding whether to use a metal roof or not. This article will take you through some of the benefits of using metal roofs, what metal roof chalking and fading actually is as well as how to prevent it, and what the best colors may be for a metal roof.  

Why Use Metal Roofing?

There are many reasons why somebody might choose to go with a metal roof.

They are extremely durable and long-lasting, especially when compared to other traditional roof materials such as asphalt. 

You also have the ability to customize the color of your metal roof’s paint, as they can be painted black, red, green, pink, or anything you’d want. In comparison, most asphalt roofs are very limited in their color options.

In addition, metal roofs are also very energy efficient: A basic, unpainted metal roof is estimated to save a traditional home up to 40% in energy costs. Metal roofs reflect sunlight, and therefore, can help keep buildings cool in the summer without the excessive use of air conditioning. They also provide excellent insulation in the winter.

Sustainability is another reason why people may choose to use metal roofing. Since metal is an easily recyclable material, many metal roofs these days are sourced from recycled metal. Additionally, since metal is an extremely durable material, you will need to replace it less often than you would with other roof materials, thereby reducing the total waste your home or business produces.

Lastly, you may want to use metal roofing simply because it looks cool! Metal can give a home or office a sleek, unique look that will set it apart from other buildings in the area. 

How Long do Metal Roofs Last?

With proper care, metal roofs are expected to last anywhere from 40 to 70 years.

In comparison, asphalt normally only lasts between 12 and 20 years, and wood shingles will last, at an absolute maximum, about 45 years.

Metal roofs are the most durable and long-lasting roof materials currently being used today.

Because metal roofs are so long-lasting, they will be significantly cheaper in the long run. Currently, metal roofs cost about twice as much as asphalt roofs, however, when you factor in that metal roofs will last up to 5x as long as asphalt, it’s clear that they give you much a better bang for your buck.

Metal roofs will often last longer, especially with proper maintenance. If you believe your roof is in need of service or repair, the roofing experts at B&M Roofing will happily come to give you a free estimate.

What is Metal Roof Fading?

Over time, environmental elements such as sun, rain, snow, and pollution will interact with and deteriorate a metal roof’s paint pigments.

A common misconception people have is that metal roof fading is causing damage to the roof, which is not true.

Metal roof fading is a natural process, as overtime, any paint color will fade with exposure to harsh elements.

However, although fading in and of itself isn’t damage to a roof, if it is not addressed, this can shorten your roof’s lifespan.

Paint protects the actual metal, and when the paint is worn down, the metal roof itself will wear down faster. This is one reason why you will want to make sure you are using high-quality paint for your metal roof.

What is Metal Roof Chalking?

Metal roof chalking is the formation of whitish residue on painted or coated metal.

Unfortunately, this whitish residue is not actually true chalk- if it were, you’d definitely see a lot more roof repair companies dabbling in producing sidewalk chalk.

Metal roof chalking occurs through a similar process as metal roof fading.

As the paint or resin on your metal roof wears down, it will turn white and chalky, hence the name.

Once again, metal roof chalking isn’t indicative of damage being done to the roof.

But, since paint and resin are protecting the actual metal, unaddressed chalking can shorten a metal roof’s lifespan.

What Colors are Best for Metal Roofs?

The most important thing when selecting what color to paint your metal roof is to ensure that a high-quality metal paint is used.

If you’re overly concerned about chalking and fading, lighter, inorganic paint colors will chalk and fade slower, plus it will be less apparent when they do.

For example, it will be really difficult to see a light grey fade when compared to vibrant red color. Additionally, different paint colors can have different benefits- for example, a lighter roof will reflect more heat than a roof painted black, and therefore keep your home cooler in the summer. 

Ultimately, chalking and fading are just one factor you should consider when making a decision about what color to paint your metal roof.

If you really strongly want a darker, or more uniquely colored roof, choose that color, and just make sure that you’re using high-quality paint.

How to Prevent Metal Roof Chalking and Fading

Chalking and fading is a natural process, but there are specific steps that you can take to delay and mitigate their effects.

Lighter, inorganic paint colors will chalk and fade slower, and it will be less apparent when they do. In addition, choosing high-quality metal paints can, and will make a gigantic difference when it comes to protecting your roof. 

You can also do the best you can to avoid exposure to certain elements, such as sunlight, moisture, and pollution. For example, roofs that face north are exposed to significantly less direct sunlight than roofs that face south.

However, roofs are obviously meant to provide you with protection from elements! 

Finally, a great step to take is to purchase a roof warranty and ensure that the warranty you purchase covers chalking and fading.

Roof chalking and fading is a natural process that will happen over time, but a proper warranty will address chalking and fading. This will help protect your metal roof’s lifespan while keeping your roof looking the way it’s supposed to.

If you’re interested in installing a new roof for your home or business, look no further than B&M Roofing.

We are true experts in roofs, having skillfully provided reliable roof coverings since 1947. We can give you a free estimate, & will work with you every step of the way, from determining which roof (metal or not) is best for you, installing your new roof, and providing regular maintenance.