If worn-out asphalt shingles are ruining your home's exterior, painting them may be one of the solutions that come to mind. But should you do it? We have researched the advantages and disadvantages of painting asphalt shingles to help you decide.
Here are the benefits of painting asphalt shingles:
- Your roof will have a new look
- Light paint will reduce electricity consumption
- You will save money
- More colors to choose from
- The asphalt shingles will have a protective coating
Painting asphalt shingles also has disadvantages. The drawbacks that you need to consider are:
- The roof will need additional maintenance
- The paint can't repair existing damage
- Requires a professional painter
- It may promote moisture buildup
Still can't decide if you will go for it or not? Don't worry! We will talk more about each of the given points above in this post. We will also discuss the types of paint and colors you can use with asphalt shingles. If you are interested in learning more, then keep reading!
Benefits and Drawbacks of Painting Asphalt Shingles
Wind, exposure to UV rays, and heat are some of the factors that cause asphalt shingles to wear out. Replacing the roof will cost you money, time, and effort. If no significant damage is present, painting the roof may be an easier way to deal with the problem. Here is why:
Pros Of Painting Asphalt Shingles
Painting your asphalt shingles properly can result in many benefits.
It Renews The Roof's Appearance
If you plan to change the aesthetic of your home's exterior, the roof can play a big part. Whether you opt for the same color or not, painting the asphalt shingles will make the roof look like it was just installed. Painting the shingles can make your roof's fading color bright again.
Reduces Energy Consumption
Did you know that the color of your roof can affect the heat inside your home? The darker the color, the more heat it absorbs. That warmth goes down and makes your indoor temperature warmer than it should be.
If you want to reduce your electric bill, painting your asphalt shingles a light color can help you achieve that, as it reflects 88% of the heat from the sun, reducing the temperature in your home by 35.6 degrees Fahrenheit.
This means your home's cooling system will not have to work as hard and will consume less energy than when you have a dark-colored roof.
The decrease in absorbed heat can be a big help, especially if you live in an extremely hot area during the summer, like Texas, Hawaii, or Florida.
It Is A Cheaper Option
Replacing asphalt shingles will cost more than having them painted. Replacement of asphalt shingles typically ranges from $5,857 to $12,698. This price can change depending on other factors, such as the kind of asphalt shingles, the roof's total area, and the complexity of the task.
Meanwhile, paint for a roof will cost around $1,000. The labor cost will vary depending on your area. But typically, it is $40 per hour. You can save more by doing the painting yourself or with the help of a friend. You will only spend money on the paint and other materials you will use.
More Colors To Choose From
Since asphalt shingles are only available in a few colors, your options for mixing and matching for your home's exterior are limited. But that will not be the case if you paint the shingles since there are many shades to choose from. The color will depend on your preference.
You can choose a color that is eye-catching and pleasing to look at. For example, a warm color like yellow can affect a person's emotions by giving the feeling of coziness and happiness.
It Adds A Layer Of Protection
Asphalt shingles already have a ceramic granule, a layer that protects it against UV rays, heat, and discoloration. Once you correctly apply a coat of paint to cover it, you add protection against future damage that may occur. As a result, the lifespan of your roof will be extended.
Cons Of Painting Asphalt Shingles
The bad news is that there are also drawbacks to painting asphalt shingles. Check them out below.
Additional Maintenance
With a layer of paint covering the shingles, an item will be added to the list of things you need to maintain. You will need to touch up spots that are peeling or repaint whole sections if there are cracks and uneven areas.
Painting asphalt shingles adds more work for people living in places with intense sunlight and a hot climate since their roofs are more prone to damage caused by UV rays.
It Can't Repair Existing Damage
Unfortunately, leaks, curling, and blistering—the most common problems of asphalt shingles—cannot be fixed by painting the roof. The paint will conceal surface flaws to make the shingles look more appealing and protect them from future damage.
A Professional Roofer Is Needed
Painting asphalt shingles may seem like a simple brushing of paint on a surface, but it is not. You will need to purchase the correct paint and use the proper brushing techniques to ensure that the coat will stick properly to the surface. And the person who is knowledgeable about all of this is a professional roofer.
It May Bring More Damage
Applying paint incorrectly can result in damage to your asphalt shingles. For instance, if the person doing the task does not know that the surface should be fully dry before painting, moisture may become trapped, resulting in mold, mildew, and even leaks.
Want to learn how to paint your roof shingles? Read this article to find out: Can I Paint Roof Shingles? [& How To]
How Long Do Painted Shingles Last?
Painted shingles can stay in good condition for up to three years. The timespan will depend on how well the paint is applied. If the application is low quality, you may need to get a fresh pint of paint in less than a year.
What Is The Best Paint For Asphalt Shingles?
The paint you should use for asphalt shingles is 100% acrylic latex. Some acrylic latex paints are specially formulated for the surface of asphalt shingles. These are water-based to prevent mold growth since they will be applied outdoors and exposed to a lot of humidity.
If you want some color ideas to take inspiration from, check out this article: 11 Roof Shingles Color Ideas And Options
What Color Shingles Last The Longest?
Light colors will last the longest on your shingles. These shades last longer because they do not absorb a lot of heat from the sun. Instead, they reflect it. Since only a tiny amount of heat is absorbed, the paint will take longer to become damaged.
What Color Of Shingles Make A House Look Bigger?
Light colors such as white, pale gray, or neutral colors can create an optical illusion that a space or area is big. So to make your house look more extensive, you should avoid using dark colors.
Do you know what color reflects the most light aside from white? Find the answer here: What Color Reflects The Most Light [Besides White]?
In Summary
The benefits of painting asphalt shingles are numerous. Your shingles will have a new, clean appearance, and you will save money because the paint can help lower your energy consumption. Plus, painting is cheaper than asphalt shingle replacement, and a wide variety of color options are available. Paint also adds a layer of protection.
On the other hand, you will need more maintenance to ensure that the paint is not peeling off or fading. Also, you will need a professional roofer to ensure that the paint is applied correctly so that no further damage will occur.