Paint for asphalt shingles

Shingle paint is a specialized product designed for the renovation, waterproofing, and protection of shingle-covered roofs. Using the right paint refreshes the roof's appearance, increases its durability, and protects it from moisture and harmful weather conditions.

What is shingle paint?

Shingle paint is a special protective coating that creates a flexible and waterproof layer on the roof surface. Its properties protect against UV radiation, precipitation, and extreme temperatures while also improving the aesthetics of the roof covering.

Why is it worth using paint for asphalt shingles?

Using paint on asphalt shingles brings many benefits:

• UV Protection : The paint protects the shingles from degradation caused by sunlight.
• Cool roof : Using light colors, especially white, significantly reduces the temperature of the roof itself and the rooms in the attic. Furthermore, light colors, by reflecting sunlight off their coating, increase the efficiency of photovoltaic panels.
• Waterproofing : Prevents water penetration, protecting the roof from leaks and moisture. Applying paint to bitumen shingles enhances the roof's waterproofing properties, fully sealing it.
• Resistance to extreme temperatures : The paint maintains its properties in both low and high temperatures, ensuring its waterproofing properties year-round.
• Improves aesthetics : Refreshes the color and appearance of the roof, giving it a new shine.

Types of paints for bitumen shingles

There are various types of paints for asphalt shingles available on the market; it's worth understanding their characteristics before deciding on one

Acrylic-elastomeric paints

They are characterized by good adhesion and flexibility. An example of an acrylic product is Neoroof® , which cures under UV light. Available in several color variants, it allows you to maintain the classic look of shingles or add a new, different character. Neoroof® provides complete waterproofing for shingled roofs.

Polyurethane paints

They offer high resistance to abrasion and weathering. TrokenTech offers products that are fully UV-resistant and also water-based, such as Neoproof® PU W-40 and Neoproof® PU Fast-30 . Both are single-component products, so application requires only mixing them in a bucket and, in some cases, diluting them slightly with water. Properly applied, these products create a fully waterproof coating on a shingled roof, while maintaining resistance to both extremely low and high temperatures.

Polyurea paints

They are exceptionally flexible, allowing them to bridge micro-cracks and substrate movements. These materials are the most durable among others because they are two-component, consisting of a base and a hardener. These products are based on organic solvents and are resistant to early rainfall – even after just one hour. Furthermore, Neoproof Polyurea R , a polyurea product, can be applied directly to shingles without prior priming, which is impossible with both elastomers and polyurethanes.

Advantages of using paint for asphalt shingles

The main advantages include:

• Extending the life of your roof : Paint protects against external factors, extending the life of your roof. Creating a full waterproofing membrane on a shingled roof provides an additional benefit, as the roof is not only renewed but also re-purposed as a moisture barrier.
• Cost savings : Renovating with paint is less expensive than replacing the entire roof. Some shingle renovation materials, such as Neoproof® Polyurea R, also require no primer during application, resulting in even shorter roof renovation times.
• Ease of application : Most paints can be applied independently, without the need for professional assistance. Often, a roller or brush is sufficient for proper application. Spraying is also possible if you have the necessary equipment, but it's not essential.

How to prepare the shingle surface for painting?

Surface preparation is crucial to the durability of a paint coating. Below, we outline all the steps for proper preparation.

Cleaning

It's essential to remove all contaminants from the surface, such as dust, leaves, moss, and mold. Furthermore, before applying any coating, the roof surface should be degreased to remove contaminants such as those from vehicle exhaust fumes.

Repairing damage

Any shingle damage, such as cracks or loose components, should be identified and repaired. Before applying waterproofing products to a shingle roof, each shingle flake should be sealed with Jointex® when using Neoproof® PU W -40 , Neoproof® PU Fast -30 , and Neoroof®. If Neoproof® Polyurea R Neotex® PU Joint is recommended for sealing the shingles and filling gaps .

Drying the surface

It is important to make sure the roof is completely dry before applying paint.

How to properly paint bitumen shingles?

For best results:

• Choosing the right paint : Suitable for the shingles and climatic conditions. It's worth considering the coating's durability, the conditions in which it will be applied, and the temperatures the roof will be exposed to in the future. This is crucial to selecting the right shingle roof protection system for your needs.
• Following the manufacturer's recommendations : Following the instructions regarding application temperature, drying time and number of coats is crucial to the proper application and curing of the coating.
• Using appropriate tools : Brush, roller or spray, depending on the manufacturer's recommendations and the nature of the material.

Care of a roof painted with bitumen shingle paint

After painting, it is worth regularly:

• Check the condition of the coating : Check for damage or signs of wear.
• Remove debris : Regularly clean your roof of leaves, branches and other debris.
• Make minor repairs : Apply additional coats of paint to damaged areas as needed.