Rust is the reaction of oxygen moisture and metal that results in reddish brown blotches.
Galvanized roof rust.
Unfortunately over time this coating can fail leading to minor rust outbreaks.
I like the fiber in the aluminized roof coat as well as in the black nearly tar roof coat.
The fiber acts a bit like a tire plug in the old nail holes and prevents leaks and it sticks well.
It is not simply a cosmetic problem however.
Rather this is just a phenomenon that often occurs in galvanized materials due to intermetallic alloying of iron and zinc i understand and is not indicative of the end of the useful life of the galvanizing.
The roofs i have done have lasted a minimum of 20 years now.
If the item is exposed to continually wet conditions the zinc develops a film known as white rust.
Galvanized metal is coated with a layer of zinc to protect the iron or steel underneath.
Rust corrodes metal and if left untreated it can cause.
If you are preparing to paint a rusted galvanized metal roof pay special attention to surface preparation or you will have a recurrence of rust and or flaking.
Galvanized metal roofs are coated with a layer of zinc that inhibits rust.
I have used both regular paint and roof coat on old metal roofing with pretty good results.