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Acrylic coating extends the life of old asphalt shingles |
Residential roof shingles: Install new ones or try to extend the life of the existing ones? From time to time, customers have asked if the acrylic used to restore tin roofs could also be applied on asphalt shingles. The answer is a clear, "Yes."
Coating asphalt shingles with acrylic has several advantages: 1) the acrylic protects the shingles from the effects of the sun 2) the acrylic can perform some weatherproofing against leaks 3) there are many colors available 4) the work can be performed by the homeowner on easy-to-stand-on roofs and 5) if you already have two layers of shingles, this approach may delay/avoid an expensive tear off project
There are several disadvantages: 1) Acrylic, at least high quality acrylic, is more expensive than a pail of paint. The acrylic at popular home improvement centers lack the quality and color selection, but, in a pinch, are an alternative. 2) The appearance of the shingles is more matted and muted compared to new asphalt shingle surfaces. By throwing colorful aggregate on the fresh acrylic, this flat look can achieve texture. An experience in feeding chickens helps in the aggregate application technique.
Once the residential roof shingle surface is swept of any loose debris, the application of the acrylic coating is quite straight forward. No primer is needed. Acrylic coating possess more "body" compared to paint, therefore, a slight alteration in the painting technique would help. One suggestion in applying the acrylic is to brush the acrylic up and down the shingle. Finish the work by pushing/pulling the brush horizontally so that the acrylic does not collect along the overlap. If you look closely at the photo below, you can spot excessive acrylic at the overlap area
Usually the manufacturers deliver the acrylic in heavy 55 lb pails; your job can be made easier by pouring some in another plastic container. Therefore, with just a broom, roof brush, stick and an access to the roof, the job can be performed by an enthusiastic Saturday home improvement owner. See below for pricing and sourcing of acrylic.
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| Older residential shingle roof | Possible holes sealed |
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| Long handle, roof brush and acrylic | Acrylic brushed over shingles |
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| Close up of coated shingles | Final roof appearance in the sun |
On this project with a single coating, three gallons were used, leaving two gallons for another project. For under $200, two roofs of similar size could be done by a homeowner.
Where to buy the acrylic: Contact the Andek Corp (their website) at 888 462 6335 for a distributor near you.
If there is an interest in a copper coating which exhibits a distinct appearance, check this link: Painting roof shingles with copper
For an idea of colors, check this link: Color Chart.
If you are seeking an experienced company to offer an estimate to preserve your existing roof, one of us would be delighted to visit your residence, discuss the alternatives available and, if requested, submit a quote for restoring your tin roofs. Click here for a map of our geographical work area.
Beyond information about our contracting services, this site is designed for individuals interested in tin roofs--photos, technical tidbits and history. These web pages are prepared by the same contractor that specializes in the restoration of these tin roofs. She enjoys dabbling in website construction, therefore photos and articles are simply presented. All pictures are from Roof Menders projects, the same contractor. If you have questions, just call 610-941-1051 for a chat.