One of the major advantages of metal roofing is its durability and longevity. With the right maintenance, a metal roof can last up to 70 years. But what does it mean to maintain a metal roof? Fortunately, it doesn’t take much to keep your roof in good shape. In fact, that’s another benefit of metal roofing. But you don’t want to miss these important steps if you want to get the most life out of your roof.
Conduct a Visual Inspection
If you visually inspect your roof regularly, you’ll get to know what it’s supposed to look like. Then, any flaws or problems should stand out more clearly. Doing this at least once a year and after inclement weather allows you to take care of minor concerns before they cause significant damage.
Some things to look for when you’re inspecting your roof include the following:
Corrosion – Rust indicates that something is eating away at the metal. Corrosion weakens the material, reducing its ability to protect the structure beneath it. A roofing contractor may be able to repair the areas with corrosion. But the best way to manage it is to prevent it altogether. There are roof coatings that seal the metal against corrosion.
Gaps – Even the tiniest space between panels can let a significant amount of water into the building. Check for gaps and holes, and have them repaired as soon as possible. If a patch isn’t installed properly, it can lead to more damage. Furthermore, it may detract from the appearance of your roof. Therefore, get expert help for the best results.
Scratches and dents – You may think that superficial scratches and minor dents aren’t a big deal. However, they compromise the roof’s coating and impede water runoff. Correct any type of damage soon after you notice it.
Organic growth – Metal panels are particularly good at resisting fungal growth. But if you notice mildew or algae growing on the surface, clean it off. You may be able to do this yourself using a soft tool, water and dish soap. However, walking on a metal roof can damage it. A licensed, insured professional can do the job safely.
Penetration points – Anything that penetrates the roof creates a vulnerable spot. Examine the seams around vents, chimneys and skylights. These tend to degrade over time and need to be reinforced periodically.
Flaking – If the roof’s paint or coating is damaged, it will lose some of its protective strength. We can help you assess whether the deterioration can be repaired. In some cases, it’s a sign that your metal roof needs to be replaced.
Keep it Clear
The smooth surface of a metal roof allows debris to glide off easily. But that doesn’t mean that leaves, sticks and other materials won’t accumulate in valleys, flat spots and gutters.
A metal roof works like a watershed system to direct streams of water to the appropriate drainage locations. If that network becomes blocked by debris, it can result in leaks and water damage. Standing water can also cause premature corrosion in the roof.
Visually inspect your roof regularly. It’s especially important to do this after a big storm. Remove items with a long-handled broom, taking care not to scratch the surface.
Make sure that the gutters are clear too. In most cases, this can be done by hand. Contact a roofing professional if you’re not sure how to clean them or can’t reach them safely.
Keeping your roof clear often involves doing some landscaping. Make sure that trees and branches don’t touch the roof. Remove dead limbs that could break off and fall on the roof.
Replace Fasteners and Flashings
If your metal roofing is held down by screws, bolts or other fasteners, its connections wear out over time. You will likely need to replace the fasteners every 5 to 10 years. However, if you notice missing, damaged or loose fasteners during a visual inspection, you’ll have to replace them sooner.
This project is best completed by a professional roofer. Contact us if you have questions about replacing fasteners on your roof. We can conduct a comprehensive inspection and make honest recommendations for maintenance options.
The roof will also outlive its flashings, the metal barriers that provide water protection at junctions. If you don’t replace the flashings at some point during your roof’s life, they’ll start to leak. This is a job that’s best left to the experts. Using the wrong kind of metal could cause a reaction with the roofing material and compromise its durability. Improper installation can lead to moisture and mold problems.
A metal roof is an investment that stays with you for a long time. Therefore, treat it properly. The experts at Presidio Roofing have extensive experience with metal roofing and will help you optimize its benefits. Regular maintenance not only gives you peace of mind but also enhances your home’s value and curb appeal.