The Ultimate Guide to Using Metal Roof Sealants
As you stand back and admire your shiny new metal roof, you can't help but feel a sense of pride. The sleek lines, the durable material, and the promise of a long-lasting roofing solution fill you with satisfaction. But as a savvy homeowner, you know that the job isn't done just yet.
A metal roof, while incredibly sturdy and resilient, still needs a protective layer to shield it from the elements and ensure its longevity. This is where a metal roof waterproof sealant comes into play.
Recognizing the Importance of Weatherproofing
The first step in securing your metal roof's longevity is recognizing the importance of weatherproofing. Metal roofing is resilient, but even with its resistance to water, you’re going to want seal problem areas like the sidewall flashing, contact points and the edges.
With high sloped roofs, for example, gravity carries the water down the eaves of each panel, siphoning it to the next underneath panel. But with lower sloped roofing, sealant will be necessary in between each panel to prevent water ingress. For that matter, any area where water can potentially penetrate needs to be properly sealed, including points of contact between panels as well as the flashing.
The Right Sealant for the Job
To ensure a well-installed, weatherproof roof, you're going to want to use a sealant specifically designed for metal roofs. Among the options available on the market, one stands out in terms of ease of use, affordability, reliability, and environmental impact: Liquid Rubber MetalSafe Sealant.
This product is a solvent-free, non-toxic sealant that provides a dependable barrier against weather elements. It's an excellent option for DIY enthusiasts, thanks to its ease of application and budget-friendly price. Here's what you need to know.
Understanding Liquid Rubber MetalSafe Sealant
Liquid Rubber offers a range of waterproof sealants, but for metal roofs, and Liquid Rubber MetalSafe Sealant or Liquid Rubber Color Sealant is the top choice. These products are designed to provide long-lasting protection against rust and leaks, which can lead to water damage to the supporting structures of your roof.
Besides its primary function of waterproofing, good metal roof sealant also helps prevent heat exposure on the surface of the metal roofing panels. This reduces the expansion and contraction of the metal in high heat, and helps reduce your energy costs due to reduced heat exposure to your home.
How to Find Leaks
You’re going to want to first inspect your metal roof for leaks before you apply the sealant. Here are some indicators you should look out for:
- Loose or missing fasteners
- Damaged panels
- An open headwall or flashing
- Missing trim
- Loose gutters and downspouts
- Gaps in seams
- Rust damage and holes
How to Apply Liquid Rubber MetalSafe Sealant or Liquid Rubber Color Sealant
Applying Liquid Rubber MetalSafe Waterproof Elastomeric Roof Sealant is a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Prepare the Roof: Inspect any fasteners and repair or replace as needed. Next, powerwash your roof.
- Dry the Surface: Allow your roof to dry thoroughly after power-washing.
- Apply Seam Tape: Apply Liquid Rubber Seam Tape to any seams or cracks longer than 1/8th of an inch.
- Use Liquid Rubber Sealant & Adhesive: For smaller seams and cracks, use a metal-safe caulking gel. Remember to smooth the material after application.
- Apply Seam Tape Around Vents and Flashing: Use Liquid Rubber Seam Tape around vents, flashing, and protrusions.
- Seal Vents and Flashing: Paint Liquid Rubber MetalSafe Sealant (or Color Sealant) over seam tape around vents, flashing, and protrusions to seal them.
- Apply the Sealant: Apply your choice of Liquid Rubber Sealant over the entire roof using a brush, roller, or sprayer.
- Let it Dry: Allow the sealant to dry between coats.
- Don't apply our colored products over our black products, choose one or the other.
If your roof has significant rust, apply a water-based rust primer before the Color Sealant. If the rusting is severe, use Liquid Rubber Metal Safe Sealant.
Choosing the Right Time to Apply the Sealant
The best time to apply your metal roof waterproof sealant is when you can avoid direct sunlight, and the temperature remains above 10C/500F. Also, try to start your project when there's no forecast for precipitation. Generally speaking, the best time to apply the sealant to avoid any excess moisture, such as morning dew, is earlier in the day so you have ample time for curing and drying in between the coats.
Wrapping Things Up
When it comes to sealing and protecting your metal roof, Liquid Rubber MetalSafe Sealant is the way to go. Not only does it protect your roof from rust and damage from the elements, but it also revives the look of older roofs, enhancing your home's aesthetic appeal and value. It's a cost-effective, reliable, and eco-friendly solution that's easy to apply, making it an excellent choice for the DIY community. Check it out today and discover the benefits of a well-sealed metal roof.