Like any material subject to long-term sun exposure, a metal roof can fade over time. Despite the reputation that metal roofs have for being durable and lasting longer than other materials, they are not immune to fading.
If you’ve noticed that your once-vibrant metal roof has started to look dull or pale, you may be wondering what specifically caused the fading to occur. This article addresses the most common reasons that lead to a faded metal roof and offers tips to preserve your roof’s color longer.
If you're searching for a roofing material that won't fade, consider a profile from the Brava Roof Tile product collection!
The Number One Reason Why Your Metal Roof Is Fading
The sun is unforgiving, and the sun’s UV rays are the biggest culprit when it comes to a fading roof. There’s typically a direct correlation between how much sunlight exposure a roof has sustained and the amount of fading that occurs over time. Over time, UV rays break down the metal’s paint or top coating, which causes color to lose its intensity.
Other Factors That Cause a Faded Metal Roof Over Time
While sunlight is a leading contributor to a fading metal roof, it’s not the only thing to watch out for. Other reasons that a metal roof can fade include:
Weathering – The elements of the outside world can all lead to fading. This is especially true if the metal is not properly coated with the right protective finish.
Oxidation and corrosion – When a metal reacts to the oxygen in the air, it can lead to metal changing its color or overall appearance.
Harsh environments – Several environmental factors can also cause fading, especially in climates that are particularly unforgiving. When a metal roof is constantly exposed to pollution or ocean air, it can accelerate fading. Urban environments and coastal areas can cause fading to happen faster.
Temperature changes – When metal is exposed to a wide range of temperatures, it can cause the color hues to change faster. It turns out that extreme temperature fluctuations can weaken the pigment.
Inadequate maintenance – Keeping a roof clean and scheduling regular inspections can extend its life and keep it looking newer for a longer period of time.
Ways to Preserve Your Metal Roof's Color
Other ways to keep your metal roof color intact include the following ideas:
- Choose light colors. Darker and brighter
colors are subject to more rapid fading. By contrast, neutral colors
like grays, tan, and white tend to fade less.
- Choose synthetic roofing materials.
Because organic materials contain pigments that are subject to breaking
down, they will fade faster than their synthetic counterparts.
- Select matte colors. While both matte and glossy hues can fade, it’ll be more noticeable on a glossy surface.
- Consider a reflective finish.
Metal roofs are available in several different types of finishes, and a
reflective finish can block a portion of the sun’s rays. Because
sunlight exposure is the leading cause of fading, having a reflective
finish can potentially reduce or slow down the amount of fading on a
metal roof.
- Choose better-quality paint. Not all paint that coats a metal roof is created equal. According to industry experts, PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride) resin provides the best protective coating that can withstand exposure to the environmental elements that cause fading.
Fading Isn’t the Only Challenge for a Metal Roof
In addition to fading, you might also notice something called “chalking.” This term refers to a residue that appears white in color and forms on the surface of a metal roof over time. It is the result of the resin on the roof’s surface breaking down and degrading.
As the ravages of time take their toll, the resin flakes from the surface and the degradation gives it the appearance of looking like it has a white residue. In fact, if you run your finger over the surface, you’ll come away with this residue.
Not All Roofing Materials are Alike
Some roofing materials are better than others. Here at Brava Roof Tile, we manufacture products that resist fading over time. This is one of many reasons that make a Brava roof superior to metal. Check out our post, "Metal vs. Composite Roof Shingles."
If you're considering a roof replacement, Brava Roof Tile is a great choice. Our roofing products do not naturally degrade over time because UV protection is built into each pour. We use patented natural mineral-based colorants, which do not degrade like synthetic colorants or paints.
Keep Your Roof Vibrant With Brava
Brava Roof Tile utilizes a revolutionary multi-coloring process to blend colors together. As a result, there is color variation throughout the entire tile, not just on the surface. This allows our products to have authentic color variation and flow without fading over time.
Rather than dealing with the headaches of a metal roof, reach out to Brava Roof Tile and request a sample or get a quote!
