5 Easy Ways to Get Rid of Rust on Metal Roofs

Before we jump into fixing the problem, it’s good to understand why rust shows up in the first place. Rust forms when metal is exposed to moisture and oxygen. After some time, this reaction causes corrosion, which leaves that familiar reddish-brown stain.

These are some of the common reasons rust might be creeping onto your roof:

• Scratches and damage: If the protective coating on your roof gets chipped or scratched, the metal underneath is exposed to moisture and oxygen, which can lead to rust.

• Aging: As your roof gets older, its protective layers can wear down. This makes it more vulnerable to rust formation.

• Environment: If you live near the coast or in an industrial area, salty air or pollutants can speed up the rusting process.

The good news is that rust is definitely fixable, and with the right approach, you can stop it before it gets worse.

5 Different Methods to Remove Rust on Metal Roofs

1. Manual Scrubbing

The first method is none other than good old-fashioned scrubbing. This is especially applicable to surface rust that’s just starting to show or touch-up work.

You can start by cleaning the rusted area in the metal roof sheet with soap and water to remove dirt. Afterward, let it dry completely. Then, you’ll need to grab a wire brush or some sandpaper to scrub the rusted spots. This helps remove loose rust and smooth out the surface. Remember, be gentle—scrubbing too hard can damage the metal underneath.

2. Chemical Rust Removers

For more stubborn rust, chemical removers can save you a lot of time and effort. Before you start, be sure to wear gloves and goggles as you’ll be working with chemicals. Additionally, always follow the product instructions.

First things first, pick up a rust remover from your local hardware store. Look for one with oxalic acid or phosphoric acid, as these are effective in breaking down rust. Apply the solution to the rusted area and let it sit for the recommended amount of time (usually a few minutes). Afterward, wipe or rinse it off, and repeat the process if needed.

3. Rust Converters

If scrubbing or chemicals aren’t cutting it, a rust converter might work better in removing all the rust on your roof system. These products turn rust into a paintable surface, making them perfect for larger areas. They’re also a great choice if you’re planning to repaint your roof anyway, as they create a solid base for new paint.

To use it, apply the rust converter to the affected spots using a brush or roller. Let it dry completely. The rust will turn into a stable, black coating that you can then paint over.

4. Sandblasting

For really bad cases of extensive rust, sandblasting might be the quickest way to clean it up.

This method uses high-powered equipment to blast abrasive material at the surface, stripping away rust and old paint in the process. While it’s incredibly effective, sandblasting is definitely not a DIY project—we highly recommend that you hire a professional to do this for you to avoid damaging your metal roof.

5. Power Washing with Rust-Neutralizing Agents

For a less intense option than sandblasting, you can remove the rust from your metal roof by pairing power washing with a rust-neutralizing product. This method works well for moderately rusted roofs and is less invasive than sandblasting.

Use a pressure washer to clean the roof and remove loose rust. After the roof surface dries, apply a rust-neutralizing agent to treat the remaining rust. Doing this will stabilize the surface and prevent further corrosion.

How to Prevent Future Rust Formation