How To Seal A Rusty Metal Roof

Start with a wire brush photo 1.

How to seal a rusty metal roof.

Wait three hours for the metal to dry. On raw steel or rusted metal 3 to 4 coats are recommended because the metal is very porous. Scrape any cracked or peeling paint from the roof before you repaint it or the new paint coating won t adhere properly. As it dries the acid of the vinegar will begin to corrode the surface of the metal and you will start to see rust appear.

If any panel is extensively damaged replace it with a. Everbrite will seal moisture out of rusted metal to help prevent further corrosion and will prevent rust stains. Roll in a vertical motion working backward toward the extension ladder. Use a zinc based primer on any areas where rust has been scrubbed or sanded away allowing it to dry before applying the protective roof coating or seal.

He recommended a product called penetrol normally used as a paint additive to improve flow and adhesion that also seals and stops rust. If your roof is aluminum you shouldn t. On most metals two coats of everbrite clear protective coating are recommended. Scrub partially rusted metal areas with a wire brush to remove flakes and powdery surface rust then prime with a rust inhibitive primer.

It can be used alone as a base coat on bare metal and will fix the rust while preserving the appearance. I have a 20 gauge cold rolled steel that has been cleaned w soap water and then we applied a solution of water acid to speed up the rusting process. Stir thoroughly before applying it with a soft bristled roofing brush or paint roller. Begin at the far side of the roof.

Allow to dry for around eight hours then apply a second coat. You can buy rubber based roof coating from most major hardware stores. The seal should last a couple of years with the bonus benefit of adding a layer of insulation to your mobile home. However badly rusted metal areas need more prep work and possibly a special primer.

Rust usually won t eat holes in an aluminum roof but it can discolor the metal. This is a very important repair that could save your roof. Once done you can paint over rust.