If you’re wondering, “How can I keep my metal roof in good condition?” Let Watkins Construction & Roofing help you out. Frequently, we praise metal roofing for its longevity, strength, and sustainability. Metal roofs stand out because of their durability, resistance to damage, and low maintenance requirements.
Certainly, a metal roof is strong. However, it does not make it bulletproof! Your metal roof, like any other, needs regular maintenance.
Metal roofs have fewer issues than other types of roofs. But you can do some things to keep them in good condition. With proper maintenance, a metal roof may last for decades while protecting your property from the elements.
Problems you can avoid with routine maintenance inspections.
- Corrosion and Degradation
- Dents, Scratches, Scuffs,
- Leaks
Check the roof once a year.
Maintain your roof and avoid the stress that urgent repairs cause by checking it frequently. Metal roofing is sturdy and long-lasting, but it can suffer damage by debris and other issues that weather brings on. Do you live in an area that often has severe weather? Do you usually see debris on your roof? In these cases, inspect it at least once a year.
Clear the clutter.
Wind and other weather conditions can throw leaves and other debris, such as branches and plastic bags, onto your roof. Likewise, debris can collect in valleys and other low spots on some roof types. The roof’s finish can deteriorate if we allow them to accumulate dead leaves, sticks, and other debris.
Scrub the metal panels.
Roofs that are dirty, mildewed, or stained not only look. Also, these issues harm the roof’s gloss and can speed up the rusting process. In most cases, you may clean the panels and increase their lifespan using a soft brush or cloth and a mild detergent and water solution. Probably, you may need solvents for stubborner stains. Check your warranties and the manufacturer’s directions for cleaning your roof before applying any cleaner or solvent.
Clear out the downspouts.
In places with deciduous trees, heavy winds, or harsh weather, debris is more likely to accumulate in gutters and drains. Corrosion can occur if water backs up and pools due to a buildup of wet dirt and leaves in the gutters.
Thus, protect your roof by clearing out the gutters twice a year and every time debris becomes evident. These cleanings are crucial for metal roofs. Rust can form around the bottom edge of a metal roof if damp debris or standing water sits there for a long time.
Trim back any overhanging tree branches
Leaves and twigs from overhanging trees can cause damage. Besides, the nests they provide can attract pests that can eat through and taint your roof. Rubbing by overhanging branches is another common cause of roof damage, especially rust, and corrosion. Trimming down the branches may keep your roof safe in several ways.
Check the paint, sealant, or coating for damage.
Sealant prevents debris, water, wind, and other elements from penetrating the roof, making it waterproof. Although sealant and roof paint have a lengthy lifespan, they won’t outlast the roof itself. The effects of weather on longevity are well-documented.
Look for signs of sealant or coating failure, such as chips, scuffs, scratches, chalking, fading paint, or rust. You can clean up scratches here and there with a paint pen, but anything more serious requires expert attention.
Adjust or change the fasteners.
When compared to a standing seam metal roof, a screw-down roof requires more upkeep. You should change out the screws every 20 to 30 years. Inspect the fasteners to see if any are missing or loose. Make any necessary adjustments or replacements, using the same material as the roof.
The gradual leak of a poorly positioned panel screw is a common cause of water damage. This issue occurs if the wood is of low quality, or the fastener didn’t contact the wood at all during installation.
Check for cracks or gaps.
As water seeps through cracks in the panels, it can rot the roof’s substructure. There should be no loose or broken panels or seams. You should check the condition of the flashing and its seals regularly.
Verify all openings.
Several specialized flashing materials are available for installation around air vents, chimneys, skylights, and solar panels. Verify that each is in fine shape and won’t let water damage or leaks occur on the roof.
Schedule Roof Repairs to Keep Your Roof in Good Condition for as Long as Possible
Schedule twice-yearly maintenance to maintain your metal roof in top shape. Checking for damage and clearing away the previous season’s detritus are best done in the fall and spring. After a storm, you may also want to look for damage or debris.
Some dangers are involved in maintaining a roof. For example, metal roofs are slippery when wet. Call a roofing contractor specializing in metal roofing if you don’t feel confident climbing up there for roof maintenance.
Watkins Construction and Roofing can provide you with the help you need. Getting in touch with us can be done by calling us at 251-299-8151. We service areas in Gulf Shores, Spanish Fort, Foley, Fairhope, Robertsdale, and Orange Beach, AL.
