Many homeowners choose metal roofs because of their appearance and durability. However, you still need routine maintenance and inspections to ensure yours remains in excellent shape for as long as possible. Learn more about the best methods for maintaining your metal roof!
How Long Do Metal Roofs Last?
If you properly care for your metal roof, it could last up to half a century or longer. With that longevity in mind, consider how these factors play a role in how long your roof will last, including:
- Weather: Metal roofs are durable, and can sustain wear and tear from local weather conditions over time. Snow and hail are two major obstacles to roof longevity. Fluctuating temperatures can also cause roofs to expand and contract, eventually causing problems.
- Installation: How your metal roof was fastened to your house affects its life span. For example, standing-seam roofs usually last longer than screw-down panels, but the proper installation of either kind should ensure it remains in shape longer.
- Finish: Your metal roof’s finish helps protect it from sun, rain and snow. Ensuring there are no chips in the paint can keep your metal roof in good condition for longer.
Other issues that affect metal roof life spans include:
- Sunlight
- High winds
- Debris buildup
- Ventilation issues
- Metals and materials that don’t mesh
- Installation over shingles
The Importance of Maintenance on a Metal Roof
Maintaining your metal roof is critical to its life span and appearance. The advantages of metal roof maintenance include:
- Increased life span: Although metal roofs have extended life spans, regular repairs can give them even longer lives. Scheduling annual roof inspections and contacting professionals to fix problems when they arise can keep your roof in better shape.
- Improved aesthetic: When you get maintenance, your roof may look more appealing. Roofing maintenance can resolve, prevent or minimize dirt and dents.
- Reduced costs: Maintaining your roof can minimize the cost of repairs for problems like dents, corrosion, leaks and degradation. A professional can quickly identify and fix any problem areas before they develop into costly repairs.
Metal Roof Maintenance Checklist
Have your metal roof inspected and maintained at least once a year. This process can be risky to attempt yourself, so hire a pro to handle the work safely. Beyond your annual inspection, consider several more ways to extend your metal roof’s longevity.
Snow and Ice Removal
When a winter storm hits, sweep the snow off your roof with a brush or broom. Stay away from metal tools that could damage the roof. If you prefer to stay inside on cold days, hire a professional to remove snow and ice for you.
Tree Branch Trimming
If you have tree branches hanging over your home, consider cutting them away to prevent scratching and excess leaf deposits, as both can cause issues like scuffing. Contact a trained professional to handle this process.
Roof Valley Debris Cleaning
Clean out any branches or leaves from crevices in your roof panels. Many contractors can perform this job and safely get rid of the debris without scratching the roof’s paint.
Corrosion Checks
Hire a specialist to look for corrosion around your HVAC fixtures and other parts of your metal roof. These areas often release heat, steam and chemicals that can degrade and corrode metal panels, making it crucial to inspect them regularly. If your roofer notices a problem, they can recommend options to address the damage.
Rust Repair
If you notice rust spots forming anywhere on your metal roof, you’ll want to get them fixed right away. We recommend working with a roofing team you trust to prevent further damage.
Metal Panel Cleaning
Rather than attempting to clean your metal roof on your own, hire a professional. They will know how to work on your roof safely and clean the surface without damaging it.
Damage Inspection
Have the roof and paint inspected for flaking, scratches, fading and scuffs. A specialist can help you remedy significant blemishes or other types of damage.
Flashing Examination
Your flashing helps divert water away from certain parts of your roof. Professionals can check your flashing’s condition and fix any issues to help prevent leaks.
Gutter and Drain Cleaning
Removing leaves, debris and sticks from your gutters and drains helps prevent clogs. Keeping these systems clear can reduce excess moisture that creates mold, attracts pests or encourages corrosion.
Roofing contractors are also available to take care of this job for you. Gutter guards are another excellent solution for keeping debris out of the way.
Penetration Point Inspections
Roofing contractors should check the areas around anything that protrudes from your roof, such as chimneys, skylights, air vents and solar panels. The materials in these areas can degrade over time due to sun, inclement weather, chemicals and other substances. A professional will inspect the paint, metal and flashing to find degradation, panel holes or other issues.
Is It Okay to Pressure Wash a Metal Roof?
You can pressure wash your roof if you use light pressure and mild detergent. If you don’t have the right equipment for the job or want to avoid climbing on top of your home, contact a pressure washing professional to do the job.
Metal Roof Screw Maintenance
Durable screws hold the metal panels on your roof together. These screws will need maintenance throughout your roof’s life span. They experience wear and tear due to compression, water damage, gasket deterioration and thermal expansion.
The screws can last as long as the roof itself with proper care. A contractor should inspect the screws for corrosion and wear during roof maintenance. If your roofer notices the screws show significant damage, they can recommend replacement.
When Is It Time to Replace Your Metal Roof?
Although regular maintenance prolongs your roof’s life, it’s likely that you’ll need to replace it eventually. Whether you recently bought a home and aren’t sure when the roof was last replaced or you notice major issues after years of use, several signs indicate it’s time for a new roof. These include:
- Major damage from weather
- Damaged paint
- Rust or corrosion on panels
- Gaps or cracks in panels
- Broken or missing flashing
- Shifting that results in an opening
- Loose screws
Let Us Handle Your Metal Roofing Maintenance
When it’s time to get maintenance done on your metal roof, Equity Builders Roofing is here to help. We have many years of experience providing high-quality repair services to homeowners like you. Contact us online to get a roofing estimate today!