Can Roof Tiles Be Painted?

Most roof tiles can be painted except for terracotta roof tiles. Terracotta tiles are coated with a ceramic glaze that should not be painted. The glaze forms a strong, porous surface that makes it difficult for the paint to bond to the tile and sit properly on the surface. When painting terracotta tiles, the paint generally clings to the glaze and will begin to peel off within a year.   

How to Paint Roof Tiles 

Doing any type of roof work is dangerous and best left to professionals. The process of painting roof tiles is not an easy one and involves the following steps:  

• Make sure to check the weather forecast and make sure there is no rain expected for at least two to three days.  

• Use a high-pressure spray or hose to clean the roof tiles and remove loose particles.  

• Leave the tiles to dry overnight.  

• Check that the remaining paint is in good condition. Do this by placing a strip of brown packing tape over the painted finish and pulling it off. See if this removes any paint.  

• Make sure the roof is in good condition with no cracks or broken shingles. Also, make sure the gutters and flash vents are in good shape.  

• Apply the roof paint. It’s recommended to start this process after 8:00 a.m. in the summer months and after 10:00 a.m. in the winter months, to ensure the roof is not too cold or too damp, and end at 12:00 p.m. to avoid heat gain.  

• Apply two coats of roof paint with a paint roller, paintbrush, or airless sprayer.  Allow the first coat to cure for three to four hours before moving on to the second coat.