Vintage standing seam roof preserved - before and after
The first step for all metal roofs is cleaning the metal surface so that the materials adhere well. As shown in the three photos below, the roof is cleaned with clorox and water. Loose paint is scraped away.
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Primer, usually grey, is applied to the roof. This primer, Polaprime 21, is manufactured by Andek Corp. The first coat of the bronze tinted acrylic is "cut" into the standing seams to insure a complete coverage. With the hard part of the project completed, the crew proceed to apply two coats of the bronze-tinted elastomeric. Note that the horizontal seams across the panel face are quite visible. These horizontal seams are absent from new metal roofing installations.
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The roof paint is actually an acrylic that is formulated to move with the metal panels' expansion whenever the outside temperature changes. As a result, roofing acrylic does not flak like paint. Outside paint, such as used on siding, is too brittle and thin, meaning the paint flakes within a few years.
If you are shopping for an acrylic to apply by yourself, check the product information carefully. The word "acrylic" has a broad meaning and only certain formulations of acrylic work on a metal roof.
The acrylics shown on the roofs in this website come from two sources: Preservation Products manufactures a fine line of acrylics that can be found on numerous historical sites. Andek Corporation is well known for its acrylics and other products used in the restoration field. Both companies have distributors or will ship to an address specified.
If you pass your cursor over the top photo, you should be able to uncover a picture of the appearance of this country manor before the roofing work was performed. The owners had worked hard to improve the attractiveness and livability of their home. They wanted to keep the original roof, but the old reddish tint detracted from the home's imposing image. They knew exactly the color they wanted--bronze. With their large property to frame their home, the restored tin roof, in bronze, only adds character to their residence.
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. For a contractor in tin roof painting, click here 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.