How to Coat Your Fiberglass Roof

A fiberglass roof is a sturdy and dependable type of roof during rainy days and winter months. Nonetheless, the roof still needs coating to lengthen its life and maintain its look. Here are the steps if you have a newly installed fiberglass roof or would like to coat an old one.

Step 1 - Decide on the Type of Coat

You cannot use regular roof coating on a fiberglass roof. The two popular fiberglass coatings in the market are gel coat and acrylic paint. With a gel coat gun, applying a gel coat is very easy. But between the two coats, acrylic paint has a stronger hold on the roof's surface and lasts longer than gel coat, although both provide enough protection on the roof. Choose the coat that fits your needs and budget.

Step 2 - Prep The Fiberglass Roof

If the fiberglass roof is new, the only prepping it needs is sanding. Its surface must be rough so that the coating that will be applied on it will adhere firmly. A rough surface creates friction, which prevents the coating compound from slipping on the fiberglass' surface.

More elaborate preparations are required for an older roof. Prepping a fiberglass roof includes cleaning it of dirt and grime, disinfecting it of molds and algae, stripping it of old paint or coat, treating it of oxidation on its surface and fixing or patching it of cracks and holes. There is a step-by-step guide on how to prep the surface of a fiberglass roof before coating. Study and research this for detailed information on how to prep your roof.

If you are using gel coat, proceed to Step 3. If you are using acrylic, proceed to Step 4.

Step 3 - Spray on Gel Coat

Use the gel coat and gun as directed in the packaging. Add the hardener. Apply a heavy coat, making sure that the gel is sprayed on evenly on the surface. Let it dry a bit for 10 minutes or until it gets tacky. Apply the next coat over the first application, this time with a thinner layer. Let it dry before applying the third coat. Allow it to dry until the gel coat hardens. Sand to level out the surface.

Step 4 - Apply Primer

Dip the paintbrush in the latex primer and brush it on the roof with smooth and even strokes. Allow it to dry. Refer to the curing time on the primer’s packaging. Pick the fine grit sandpaper and sand the roof to level out the surface. Vacuum off the powdery residue.

Step 5 - Paint with Acrylic

Apply the first coat of acrylic paint with a paintbrush or a roller brush over the dried and sanded latex primer. Apply a thin coat and thicken the coats gradually, specifically on the second and third coats. Allow the paint to dry before painting it over with another coat. If there are still some acrylic paint left after the third coat, use it all up.