How to Paint Roof Tiles – A Step-by-Step Guide

Painting roof tiles can enhance the appearance of your property. It also protects against the weather. This applies to houses, commercial buildings, and industrial units. It’s a wise choice that is affordable. This guide shows you the proper technique for painting roof tiles. It explains the types of tiles you can paint, and which roof tile paint is best for a professional, long-lasting finish.

Roof tiles change over time. They can become discoloured, covered in moss, or damaged by weather. If not treated, this harms a property’s look and can lead to serious structural problems. Painting the roof is an affordable way to boost kerb appeal. It also helps give it a fresh, uniform look and adds a protective layer to your property. This layer shields the surface from UV damage, rain, frost, and more. Using a strong product like Polycote’s Roof Tile Paint can extend your roof’s life and reduce the possibility of needed a replacement.

The short answer is, yes, most roof tiles can be painted. However, there are a few materials that we either wouldn’t recommend painting, or would suggest thorough preparation for. So, it’s key to know which tiles you have:

• Concrete tiles are great for painting if they are clean, dry, and strong.
• Glazed clay or terracotta tiles usually won’t work well. Paint might not stick, which can lead to flaking or peeling.
• Slate tiles can be painted but you need to prepare them properly and use the right products. We recommend seeking professional advice before you get started.

If you’re unsure about the type of tile on your roof, feel free to contact us – we’re happy to advise.

1. Safety first

Before any work begins, ensure appropriate safety measures are in place. Use a stable ladder or scaffolding to access the roof and wear a safety harness when working at height. Always use protective clothing such as gloves, goggles, and slip-resistant footwear. If you have little access to experience, talk to a professional contractor.

2. Clean the roof tiles

To achieve optimal paint adhesion, you must clean the tiles completely. Clear away debris like leaves and branches. Then, pressure-wash the surface to get rid of dirt, moss, and algae. After cleaning, use Destroy IT to prevent future organic growth. Allow the roof to dry completely before continuing.

3. Inspect and Repair

Inspect the roof for damage with attention to detail. Replace any cracked or broken tiles. For minor cracks or gaps, seal them with a product like Rooflex Sealant. Making repairs at this stage will ensure you end up with a uniform, long-lasting finish.

4. Apply a primer (if necessary)

For older or very porous tiles, using a primer can boost coverage and adhesion. Polycote manufactures Roof Tile Paint to stick to clean, porous surfaces. It usually doesn’t need a separate primer. If you’re unsure, get in touch and we’ll help.

5. Choose the right paint

For the best paint for roof tiles, pick a high-quality coating. It should resist UV rays, rain, and frost. Also, ensure it keeps its colour stable over time. Breathability matters too. It helps trapped moisture escape and lowers the chance of peeling or blistering. Polycote Roof Tile Paint meets all these needs. It provides a strong, professional finish for homes and businesses.

6. Application

For smaller areas, you can apply the coating using a brush or roller. For big roof areas, use an airless sprayer. This helps you cover the surface in a shorter time and with a consistent application. Apply at least two coats. Allow each coat to dry completely before adding the next. Always follow the product’s technical guidelines and avoid application in adverse weather. If you’re not sure which equipment to use, our team can help. We can recommend the right tools for the best results with Polycote Roof Tile Paint.