Tips for Metal Roof Maintenance
- By Admin
- •
- 12 Feb, 2021
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Metal roofs are durable, energy-efficient, and relatively lightweight, which minimizes structural damage. Like other roofing material, however, you will only enjoy the benefits of your metal roof if you take good care of it. Fortunately, caring for a metal roof is relatively simple. Below are the major maintenance measures to take.
Trim Trees Around the House
Tree branches around the house can damage the roof. The branches can rub against the metal and erode the finish. The erosion will expose the metal to weather elements, such as moisture, which increases corrosion risk. Tree branches can also break and puncture the roof, especially during storms.
Trim the trees regularly so that they are always a safe distance from the roof. Cut down dangerous trees or tree branches, such as dry or leaning trees, before they fall on the roof.
Keep the Roof Clean
All roofs need to be clean, but debris has different effects on different roofing materials. For metal roofs, accumulated debris can trap moisture and encourage corrosion. The risk is especially high in old roofs or roofs with damaged finishing. Some of the debris, such as tree twigs, can also scratch the metal surface and damage the paint or finishing.
Clean the roof regularly to prevent such damages. The frequency of cleaning depends on the level of debris in your area. For example, frequent cleaning is necessary if you have many trees in the neighborhood that deposit leaves on the roof.
Minimize Foot Traffic
The profiles of metals used for roofing is relatively thin. A metal roof can deform if you subject it to excessive weight, such as by walking on it. For example, walking on the roof can create dents that can allow water to pool and damage the roof. Friction from foot traffic can also damage the finishing.
Minimize foot traffic on your metal roof to avoid such damages. If you have to walk on the roof, such as for repairs or inspections:
- Wear soft-soled shoes to minimize friction
- Walk close to the decking
- Avoid the ribs or laps
Note that infrequent walks on the roof are acceptable — only frequent foot traffic should worry you.
Avoid Repairs With Dissimilar Metal
Galvanic corrosion occurs when two dissimilar metals touch, especially in the presence of moisture. The corrosion occurs when one metal loses some of its irons to the other.
Galvanic corrosion can weaken your roof and lead to damage. Therefore, don't let dissimilar metals touch on your metal roof. For example, if you want to replace the flashing or install something on the roof, ensure it is of the same metal as the roof or use a nonmetallic buffer between them.
Watch Out for Paint Overspray
Paint overspray can cause cosmetic damage to your roof. Ensure paint doesn't spread to the roof — especially when painting parts of the house that are close to the roof, such as the eaves. A practical precaution is to use rollers or brushes when painting close to the roof. The two techniques are less dangerous compared to sprayers.
Regularly Inspect the Roof
Your metal roof can still suffer damage despite your best precautions. Inspect your roof regularly to spot emerging problems before they worsen. Watch out for:
- Corrosion
- Dents
- Deep scratches
- Loose or missing fasteners
- Metal holes or tears
Most roofs can benefit from semi-annual inspections. Get professional repairs for any problems the inspections might reveal.
Maintenance will prolong your metal roof's lifespan, but you will eventually have to replace it. When that time comes, choose an experienced, skilled, and professional roofing contractor. ABCO Roofing Company Inc. ticks all these boxes since we have been active in the roofing industry for decades. Contact us for a quote on any roofing service you need.
Unfortunately, you probably do not fully understand the importance of your roof and the maintenance that is required. By debunking these common roofing myths, you will learn the truth about your roof's durability, construction and maintenance.
While cedar shake roofs are also relatively low maintenance, it is still a good idea to follow these maintenance tips to keep your roof looking and functioning its best.
1. Have Your Roof Inspected Annually
The best way to protect and maintain your roof is to have it inspected once a year. You can start by inspecting it yourself, both from the ground and by climbing up on a ladder. Look for shingles that are curled, missing, cracked, or otherwise damaged by any wind storms you have experienced.
If you notice any issues, then have your roof inspected by professionals. Professional roofers can spot repair any issues and prevent further damage, which protects the life span of your cedar shake roof. By inspecting your roof regularly, you will notice issues early, before they become more serious.
2. Have a New Gutter System Installed
High-quality gutters and downspouts are key to protecting your roof. When having a new cedar roof installed, it makes sense to have a new gutter system installed at the same time.
High-quality gutters and downspouts in good repair will redirect rainwater, dead leaves, and snowmelt away from your roof, siding, and foundation. This will prevent unnecessary water damage, mold, mildew, and rot. It will also help you save money because you will avoid costly repairs down the road.
3. Have Your Trees Trimmed Regularly
In addition, if your trees aren't trimmed regularly, the branches that are closest to your roof offer easy access to pests including squirrels and raccoons. These pests may damage your roof and try to get into your attic, where they can truly wreak havoc. Keeping your trees trimmed prevents a lot of unnecessary issues and keeps your trees healthier as well.
Take a walk around the perimeter of your house, and view the roof from different angles. Also inspect the rooms directly below the roof. While some minor issues can be spot-repaired, the following signs signify you should replace your roof in its entirety.
ABCO Roofing Company Inc. serves Middle Tennessee residences and business for roofing, siding, and gutter installation, maintenance, and repair.