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How to Paint Thermoplastic Polyolefin

Thermoplastic polyolefin is a polymer used to coat low-slope or flat roofing, especially in commercial properties. It gives roof surfaces a weather-resistant coating that looks and feels much like rubber. While the rubbery coating is durable, it isn't the most stylish feature for a property. You can give thermoplastic polyolefin surfaces a facelift with a coat of paint but you'll need the right kind of paint. Certain paints can react with this polymer coating, causing paint discoloration and lessening the weather resistance.

Things You'll Need

  • Extension ladder
  • Garden hose
  • Rag
  • Water-base primer
  • 2 medium-nap paint rollers
  • Acrylic resin emulsion paint
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Instructions

    • 1

      Climb a step ladder or locate a staircase for roof access if your thermoplastic polyolefin surface is on a roof. Thermoplastic polyolefin coatings are almost always on roofs with very minimal sloping but in the rare occurrence of a steep thermoplastic polyolefin roof, always start working at the top of the slope and move downward.

    • 2

      Rinse off the thermoplastic polyolefin surface with a garden hose. For indoor surfaces, use a wet rag.

    • 3

      Prime the thermoplastic polyolefin with a water-base primer and a medium-nap paint roller. When applying primer, roll on the primer parallel strokes with 50 percent overlap. Wait for the primer to dry before continuing.

    • 4

      Paint the surface with acrylic resin emulsion paint. This type of paint is available at most hardware stores, and it does not react with thermoplastic polymers. Apply the paint with a clean medium-nap roller in parallel strokes. An overlap of 50 percent between roller lines reduces visible roller marks.

    • 5

      Apply a second coat if necessary after the first coat dries.