METAL ROOF MAINTENANCE – FAMILY ROOFING

Posted on by David Reid

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METAL ROOF MAINTENANCE

To keep a metal roof in good shape homeowners will need to take part in regular upkeep.  While metal roofs are generally low maintenance, there is some level of care involved.  With proper care, a metal roof will have a longer lifespan and keep a fresh appearance.

Below are the most important metal roof maintenance steps you should be taking to ensure the longevity of your roof.

Surface maintenance should be conducted at least once every year.  Some homeowners may choose to stretch this period to 18 months depending on the environment where their home is located.

It’s best to hire a professional to conduct these maintenance services to ensure they are done properly and safely.  This is especially true if your home has a steep slope.

1. Clean off Buildup on Roof Surface

Buildup on your roof can be cleaned with a power washer or gentle detergent.  This will prevent stripping of any coatings on  your metalroof while still removing moss and fungus.  Your best option is to hire someone to complete this task for you.  Cleaning a roof with cleanser and a power washer can make the metal particularly slick.  A steep slope to your roof only adds to the dangers of injury.

2. Remove Debris from Gutters, Drains, and Valleys

Prevent clogs in your gutters and drains with the regular removal of debris that can otherwise lead to water accumulating in one spot.  This will help to prevent corrosion and other issues from buildup.

3. Remove Branches and Sticks Near the Roof

Branches and sticks should be removed if touching or nearly touching the roof.  This will prevent scratches and stains from occurring where the two meet.  This will also prevent the buildup of twigs and sticks from overhanging trees.

4. Look for Signs of Wear and Tear

While small scratches can be mostly masked using paint, larger instances of scuffing, chalking, and scratching can be due to a larger problem.  You’ll want to have these checked soon after you discover the area of concern to determine what can be done to repair the area.  If you do find signs of wear and tear, contact the manufacturer rather than attempting to fix the problem yourself.  If you attempt a DIY repair job it could end up exacerbating the issues.

Structural maintenance takes a more intensive look at the health of your roof.  This type of maintenance should be completed by a roof maintenance professional.  It will check for problems with the roof caused by stressors.  Plan to have your roof checked for structural damages at least once during a two year period.

1. Check Fasteners, Rivets, and Screws

While fasteners, rivets, and screws used on metal roofs are built to last throughout the lifetime of the roof, it doesn’t hurt to check in on them.  You’ll want to assess for any crooked, loose, or missing parts when you have structural maintenance performed on your roof.  This is best done annually so any problems can be righted in a timely manner.

2. Check Panel Seams

Check that panel seams are still even and tight.  The seams should account for expansion and contraction caused by heat.

3. Check Flashing for Damage

Roof leaks can become a problem if damaged flashings are left unfixed.  You’ll want to ensure the flashings are still sealed well and any potential problems are corrected before larger problems evolve.

4. Look for Punctures in the Roof

Falling debris can puncture your roof.  This is especially likely after major storms.  Have your roof checked for falling debris yearly and after major weather events to assess any damage.

5. Touch up With Sealants as Needed

You want your metal roof to be weather-tight year-round.  This means no leakage.  Sealant helps to keep the elements out but may begin to crack or degrade over time. Have sealants be touched up or replaced as needed.

THE BENEFITS OF PROPER METAL ROOF MAINTENANCE

Proper roof maintenance is important for the durability and longevity of your roof.  Without proper maintenance, you’ll spend more money on repairs and potential replacement than you’d have otherwise spent on annual inspections.  A few of the most influential reasons to add roof maintenance to your to-do list are:

  • Protection of your roof’s overall integrity

  • Saved money in the long run

  • Problems addressed when less severe