If you own a metal roof, you already know it’s a durable, long-lasting solution for your home or business. But like any roofing system, it needs proper maintenance to ensure it stays watertight and efficient. One of the best ways to protect your metal roof and improve drainage is by using a high-quality roof sealer.
Metal roof sealers come in different types, each with specific benefits. Choosing the right one can prevent leaks, enhance durability, and even boost energy efficiency. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the various types of metal roof sealers, their advantages, and how to select the best one for your needs.
Why Does My Metal Roof Need a Sealer?
If you know even a little about roofs and home improvement, you know how good metal roofs are at protecting your home. These excel at longevity. However, you never know about the forces of nature. Over time, exposure to harsh weather conditions, constant temperature fluctuations, and UV radiation can cause problems to your metal roof panels. This leads to small gaps, rust formation, or weakened joints. For added protection, sealants play a big role. Metal roofing sealant helps you address these vulnerabilities by forming an additional protective barrier. No matter which sealant you buy, these are designed to keep moisture out, preventing leaks and corrosion.
Additionally, they enhance the roof’s ability to shed water, improving drainage and extending the lifespan of the roof. A well-sealed metal roof also contributes to energy efficiency by reflecting heat and reducing cooling costs in hot climates.
Acrylic Roof Sealers
Acrylic roof sealers are one of the most common choices for metal roofs. They are water-based, making them easy to apply and clean up. These sealers create a protective barrier that helps reflect UV rays, reduce heat absorption, and keep your roof cooler.
Pros:
- Cost-effective and easy to apply
- The water content makes it quicker to apply and dry
- Provides a flexible and seamless finish
Cons:
- Not as durable as silicone or polyurethane options
- May require multiple coats for full protection
- Doesn’t last long
Best For: Acrylic sealers work well in regions with high sun exposure but minimal heavy rainfall. If you want an energy-efficient metal roof sealant that protects against UV damage, acrylic is a solid choice.
Silicone Roof Sealers
Silicone sealers are a top-tier option when it comes to waterproofing a metal roof. These sealants provide a highly flexible, durable, and UV-resistant coating that can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Pros:
- Excellent waterproofing properties
- Highly flexible, preventing cracks from temperature changes
- Lasts longer than acrylic and other types of sealants
- Resistant to ponding water
Cons:
- More expensive than acrylic options
- Requires professional application for best results
- Can be slippery when wet
Best For:
Silicone roof sealers are perfect for roofs prone to standing water or areas with extreme weather conditions. If you live in a region with heavy rain or fluctuating temperatures, this is one of the best investments you can make for your metal roof.
Polyurethane Roof Sealers
Polyurethane sealers are known for their strong adhesion and impact resistance. They create a tough, durable barrier that protects against weather elements, chemicals, and general wear and tear.
Pros:
- Superior adhesion to metal surfaces
- High resistance to impact and foot traffic
- Waterproof and weather-resistant
- Can be used as a base coat or topcoat
Cons:
- Can be expensive
- Due to strong fumes it requires proper ventilation during application
- Can turn yellow over time if it’s not UV-resistant
Best For:
If your metal roof is exposed to high amounts of foot traffic (like commercial buildings) or harsh conditions, a polyurethane sealer will provide the durability you need.
Butyl Roof Sealers
Butyl sealers or butyl tape are another excellent option for metal roofs, particularly when dealing with seams and joints. This roof sealant remains flexible over time and provides superior adhesion, preventing leaks in areas prone to expansion and contraction.
Pros:
- Exceptional adhesion to metal surfaces
- The butyl tape stays flexible even in extreme temperatures
- Ideal for sealing seams and hard to reach areas
- Easier to use and apply than other metal roof sealants
Cons:
- Not as reflective as acrylic or silicone options
- Requires careful application for the best results
Best For:
If your metal roof has many seams, fasteners, or areas prone to movement, butyl sealers provide an excellent, long-lasting solution.
Roof Sealers vs. Metal Roof Paint
Many homeowners confuse metal roof sealers with roof paint, but they serve different purposes. Roof paint primarily improves appearance and may offer some UV resistance to a roof, but they do not provide the same level of waterproofing and protection as sealers. While some reflective roof coatings blend paint with sealing properties, a dedicated roof sealer is specifically designed to prevent leaks, enhance drainage, and improve overall durability.
Do Metal Roofs With A Kynar Finish Also Require Sealants?
Additionally, specialized coatings such as PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride), commonly known as Kynar 500, are used on metal roofs for superior durability and color retention. These coatings offer excellent resistance against UV damage, chemicals, and environmental pollutants and keep the color of your roof looking as it did on day one.
Over the years, Kynar has become the norm for many metal roof manufacturing processes and offers great results. However, while Kynar coatings provide strong protection against fading and corrosion, it does not quite serve the same role as a sealant. This finish is utilized for preserving the appearance and integrity of the metal panels rather than waterproofing and sealing joints or seams. We advise using a sealant even if your roof has a PVDF coating. If your primary goal is protection against leaks and moisture intrusion rather than just appearance, a high-quality roof sealer is a must.
How to Choose the Right Metal Roof Sealer?
Now that you know the different types of sealers that are available, how do you choose the right one for your metal roof? Several factors play a role in determining the best choice.
Take Note Of Your Area’s Local Weather
Your climate is one of the most important considerations for your choice in metal roof sealant. If you live in a region with heavy rainfall, a silicone or butyl sealer is ideal due to its waterproofing properties. In hot and sunny areas, an acrylic sealer can help by reflecting UV rays and keeping your home cooler. Polyurethane sealers, on the other hand, are best suited for areas prone to hail or high foot traffic thanks to their superior durability.
Assess The Current Condition Of Your Roof
The current condition of your roof also matters. If your metal roof has existing leaks or seams that need extra reinforcement, a butyl or silicone sealer is a smart choice. These materials provide a strong bond and can help prevent future leaks. On the other hand, if your roof is relatively new and you’re looking for preventive maintenance, an acrylic sealer may be enough to extend its lifespan.
Cost Of The Coating and Your Budget
Budget is another key factor. While silicone and polyurethane sealers provide top-tier performance, they come at a higher cost. If you’re looking for an affordable yet effective solution, acrylic sealers offer decent protection at a lower price point. However, investing in a higher-quality sealer can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent reapplications or expensive roof repairs.
How Do You Seal A Metal Roof Perfectly?
In order to ensure that your roof is sealed properly, you should always hire a professional roofing contractor. While some sealers are easy to apply, making them a good choice for DIY projects, not all are. Options such as polyurethane and silicone often require professional application for the best results.
Protect Your Metal Roof With Wisconsin’s Top Roofing Contractors
A high-quality metal roof sealer is an essential investment for maintaining your roof’s longevity and performance. Whether you need superior waterproofing, UV protection, or flexibility against extreme temperatures, there’s a sealer that fits your needs.
Need help choosing or applying a metal roof sealer? Contact us today at (920) 791-0414 for expert advice and professional flat roofing services from the team at Prestige Roofing LLC.