Metal Roof Painting – Price and How to Do It?

Metal roof painting is an important part of roof maintenance. It extends the roof’s lifespan and effectively protects it from Finland’s variable weather conditions. Regular maintenance painting prevents rust and saves you from costly roof repairs in the long run.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at metal roof painting and its cost. We’ll go through how metal roof painting is done, what it costs, and when the work should be carried out.

Five key takeaways from the article:

• Metal roof painting extends the roof’s lifespan and prevents rust.
• Metal roof painting requires thorough washing and preparation before starting.
• Metal roof painting costs on average 20–40 €/m² depending on the condition and location of the property.
• Roof painting can also be done yourself, but it involves safety risks and the work can become expensive in the long run.
• The best time for metal roof painting is from spring to early autumn, in dry weather.

Is it worth painting a metal roof?

Yes, metal roof painting is worthwhile especially when the paint surface starts to flake or fade. It’s a cost-effective way to extend the roof’s lifespan and prevent rust.

Metal roof spray painting is a common and effective way to achieve an even finish. Especially painting a flaking metal roof should be done in time, before the damage progresses to the metal structure itself.

Should a metal roof be washed before painting?

Washing a metal roof before painting is an essential work stage that ensures the paint’s adhesion and durability. Paint won’t adhere properly to an unwashed surface, which can cause the coating to come off prematurely.

Metal roof washing is done according to Väriset’s process with a pressure washer and cleaning agent designed for metal roofs before painting. Thorough washing ensures that the new paint surface lasts long and stays clean year after year.

How much does metal roof washing and painting cost?

Metal roof washing and painting typically cost 20–40 €/m². The price is affected by the roof’s condition, surface area, paint quality, and chosen work method. Washing usually accounts for about 5–10 €/m² and painting 15–30 €/m². If the roof has a lot of rust or difficult structures, the metal roof painting price may increase somewhat. The exact cost is always best determined on-site – request a free assessment visit here.

How much does metal roof painting cost through Väriset?

Metal roof painting typically costs 3,000-6,000 euros through Väriset. Väriset offers metal roof painting at a competitive price, which is determined by the roof’s size, condition, and structure.

In the case examples below, you can see more detailed pricing for different types of roofs. When you want to know how much metal roof painting costs for your specific property, request a free assessment from Väriset.

Standing seam metal roof maintenance painting in one coat

Location: Forssa
Surface area: 140m2
Extent of preparation work: Medium
Steepness: Medium steep
Price: 4,500 €

New galvanized standing seam metal roof painting in two coats

Location: Uusikaupunki
Surface area: 156m2
Extent of preparation work: Small
Steepness: Medium steep
Price: 6,300 €

Housing association standing seam metal roof maintenance painting in one coat

Location: Helsinki
Surface area: 650m2
Extent of preparation work: Large
Steepness: Medium steep
Price: 17,200 €

Standing seam metal roof maintenance painting in one coat metal roof painting

Location: Imatra
Surface area: 210m2
Extent of preparation work: Small
Steepness: Gentle
Price: 4,900 €

When is the best time to paint a metal roof?

The best time for metal roof maintenance painting is from spring to early autumn, when weather conditions are stable, dry, and warm. In dry weather, paint adheres most effectively and dries evenly. The ideal application temperature for paint is around +10–25 °C and relative humidity around 50%. While 50% is optimal, humidity below 80% is generally an acceptable upper limit for painting work. Metal roofs should be painted in spring or early summer, which avoids autumn rains and night moisture.

But can you paint a metal roof in autumn? Yes, you can – but only if the weather stays sufficiently warm and dry, and there are no night frosts. Painting metal in cool and humid weather can weaken the durability of the result, so timing should be carefully planned.

Can a rusty metal roof be painted?

A rusty metal roof can be painted if the rust is superficial and the roof is structurally sound. Small rust spots are removed mechanically and treated before painting to ensure a durable coating. Damaged metal sheets are replaced with new ones if necessary.

In our previously published guide on metal roof rust removal, we emphasize the importance of post-removal treatment:

“After rust removal, all bare metal areas must be primed with rust-preventive primer, to prevent rust from starting again.”

If rust has spread over a large area or the metal structure is damaged, painting alone is no longer enough – the roof should then be renewed either partially or completely.

How long does roof painting take?

Roof painting done by a professional typically takes 2–4 days, depending on the roof’s size, structure, and weather conditions. The duration of the work is determined by how extensive the preparation work needs to be and how effectively the weather allows work to proceed.

Done yourself, roof painting can take considerably longer. Due to weather, the work may be delayed if you have to wait for dry conditions. Additionally, work may progress more slowly if you don’t have professional-grade tools and methods. A well-planned schedule and the right tools significantly speed up the job.

Is DIY metal roof painting worthwhile?

Painting a metal roof yourself may be tempting for cost reasons, and done correctly, you can save money. However, the work requires care, appropriate tools, and favorable weather conditions.

DIY painting can ultimately become expensive if the preparation work is done inadequately or the paint doesn’t adhere properly. A failed paint job can result in the entire roof needing to be treated again. Hiring a professional brings certainty to the result and can save both time and money in the long run.

Done yourself, roof painting can also be a safety risk if you don’t have proper safety equipment, such as harnesses or roof ladders. Professionals have the training and equipment to work safely even in high and challenging locations.

How much does a new metal roof cost?

The price of a new metal roof is made up of several factors: material choices, the extent of installation work, the roof’s size, and any preparation work, such as removing the old roof or repairing structures. A metal roof renovation can typically cost 15,000–20,000 euros.

But when should an old metal roof be renewed – and when is painting alone enough? Renewal is timely if the metal sheets are rusted through over a large area or the structures are damaged. However, if the roof is intact and the rust is only superficial, painting the old metal roof is a significantly more cost-effective solution.

Summary

Metal roof painting is a sensible investment for protecting the roof and improving its appearance. Painting extends the roof’s lifespan and can prevent costly repairs. Whether you’re considering metal roof washing, doing the painting yourself, or hiring a professional – thorough preparation work and proper timing are the keys to success. If you want to ensure a quality result, contact Väriset and request a free estimate!