How to Paint Asphalt Roof Shingles
Painting asphalt roof shingles is a relatively simple process, similar to other painting endeavors. However, there are a few serious dangers involved for the amateur do-it-yourselfer with little painting experience. First, there are the potential physical dangers of working high up, often on steep inclines. Second, there's a very real risk of destroying the roof by using the wrong materials. If you need to paint asphalt roof shingles, you shouldn't have any problems as long as you know how to go about it. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Pressure washer
- Extension ladder
- Roller frame
- Nap roller cover
- Extension pole
- Five-gallon bucket
- Acrylic latex paint
Instructions
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Access the roof via an extension ladder. Work with a partner unless you are an experienced painter who has worked with extension ladders in the past.
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Clean the asphalt roof shingles using a pressure washer. Use a low setting to prevent unnecessary damage to the surface. Allow the roof to dry before continuing.
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3
Fill the five-gallon bucket halfway with acrylic latex paint. Snap the roller cover onto the frame. Screw the frame onto the extension pole.
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Apply the acrylic latex paint to the roof using the roller. Begin at the edge of the roof and work backward, being careful not to paint yourself into a corner.
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5
Allow the surface to dry for two full hours. Apply another coat if necessary.
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Tips & Warnings
Certain kinds of paint will trap moisture beneath the asphalt shingles. This will eventually cause the underlying wood to rot, causing extensive damage and possible mold infestations. Only use breathable acrylic latex paint when painting an asphalt roof.
Although it is not necessary to work with a partner, it is highly recommended. A partner can not only help hold the ladder for you, he is able to hold the 5-gallon bucket in place on top of the roof. This is especially useful when working on a roof with an incline.
Falls from extension ladders can be fatal. Always follow the safety instructions printed on the side of the ladder exactly as they are printed.
