If you’re contemplating a metal roof installation, you may have heard the term: “chalking and fading”, but what does it mean?
In this article, we’ll provide you with all the information you need about chalking and fading in metal roofs, what you need to be aware of when choosing your Colorbond ® paint colour, whether it indicates damage and what causes it. These issues are among the most common metal roof problems homeowners encounter, so it’s important to understand what they mean for the long-term health of your roof.
We’ll also discuss what you need to do to prevent chalking and fading in your metal roofs and when to call the professionals at Manchester Roofing for assistance.
Chalking & Fading: What Is It?
Essentially chalking and fading refers to natural colour fade that occurs when a metal roof is painted. You may also see a chalky, powdery residue appear on your roofing.
Does Chalking in Metal Roofs Indicate Damage?
Chalking and fading in metal roofs doesn’t always indicate damage, but if your roof is not well maintained it may lead to future problems. For this reason, it is something that you should keep an eye out for, and address accordingly with your roofing professional.
How Long Does Paint Last on Metal Roofing?
How long your paint will last – and your likelihood of developing fading and chalking – depends on a couple of different things including:
Paint Colour
The colour of your metal roofing will determine how long it lasts – and whether you’re at risk of chalking and fading. You may find that darker colours (like red or black) fade a lot quicker than lighter colours (like cream or terracotta).
Resin & Pigment
The pigment is the thing that gives your roof its colour, whereas the resin holds it in place. The quality of your resin and pigment will determine how long your paint lasts, but you can pretty much guarantee that Colorbond and the materials we use at Manchester Roofing are of the highest quality.
UV Exposure
When your roofing is exposed to a lot of direct sunlight, the paint may not last as long as you want it to. That’s something you need to keep in mind when choosing which paint colour is the right one for you and your home.
Moisture
Moisture is also your metal roofing’s enemy – especially when it has been painted. Just like with sunlight, you need to make sure your roof isn’t overexposed to moisture and take the necessary steps to maintain it if you want your paint colour to maintain its integrity.
Direction
The direction your roof (and by extension, your house) faces will influence how long your paint colour of choice lasts.
This is because north facing houses are in more direct contact with sunlight, which as we’ve mentioned, is something you need to consider when choosing your paint colour and avoiding fading or chalking.
Salt Spray
Salt spray is another thing you need to watch out for if you want to avoid chalking and fading in your metal roof. Overexposure to salt spray may degrade the quality of your paint and cause it to fade and chalk over time.
How to Prevent Chalking & Fading in Metal Roofs ( & When to Contact Us)
The best way to prevent chalking and fading in metal roofs is to maintain and clean your roof on a regular basis. By performing the correct maintenance and making sure your roof is in good condition at all times, you protect the integrity of your roof, which may help with chalking and fading.
To find out more about chalking and fading, or arrange a roofing inspection, contact our experienced team today.
