The Complete Guide to Metal Roofing Maintenance

This ultimate guide to metal roofing can help you keep it in excellent condition throughout the year. This durable, long-lasting material is vulnerable to wear and tear from harsh weather conditions and improper care. Metal roofs are a unique type of roof that enhances your home's curb appeal while also being more durable than other types such as asphalt or wood shingle roofs. However, despite their durability, they're still susceptible to damage caused by strong winds, extreme temperatures, poor maintenance etc. so regular inspections must be done on this valuable asset for good overall health.

At Shield Roofing and Sheet Metal, we know how valuable your time is. We want to help you streamline the process for maintenance that should be performed on metal roofs so expect to discover more about:

• Why it’s important to maintain a roof made of metal;

• Surface-level maintenance such as scraping debris off or applying protective coatings with paint or polyurethane spray; and

• Structural repairs including making new holes in order fix leaks from ice dams during colder seasons.

Why it’s Important to Maintain Your Metal Roof?

#1: To prevent potential problems

A common fear for every home or building owner is a roofing problem. Not only can problems with the roof cause damage to both property and items inside of homes, but it also results in high repair costs. Some possible issues that may arise from metal roofs are:

• Leaking
• Scratching
• Degradation
• Galvanic corrosion
• Denting
• Scuffing

Without regular maintenance, potential problems can go unnoticed and become serious issues that lead to a system failure. Home or building owners should schedule at least one annual check-up with either themselves or an outside contractor in order to identify any areas of concern and address them before they turn into big issues.

#2: To prolong the life span of the roofing system

Sometimes, the worst situation you can get into is having to replace your entire roof too early. The best way to prevent this from happening is by regularly maintaining and caring for your metal roof so it stays in good condition as long as possible.

A metal roof is like any other product, and it will not last forever without proper care. Constant maintenance can help maintain the integrity of your roof's accessories as well as ensure that they continue performing well and provide protection for a long time to come. There are many dangerous scenarios where exposure could degrade your metals' condition over time, which is why you need to be observant when inspecting them so you can identify problems before more damage occurs and take appropriate action in order to correct them if necessary.

#3: To keep your metal roof look great

A metal roof is expensive and you don't want it to go to waste. Make sure your roof stays in great condition so that the money spent on installing a new one doesn't have to be done again soon after. Keeping surfaces free of dirt, dust, or debris will keep your home looking beautiful for years down the road.

What Kind of Maintenance Does a Metal Roof Need?

 It is important to clean your metal roof at least once a year, because it can help make sure that the material lasts for decades. Although you may be able to maintain and inspect your own metal roof without professional assistance, hiring someone who knows what they are doing will allow you not have worry about climbing onto your roof or risking injury yourself while trying to complete necessary tasks. Here are some ways that should take care of their roofs follow these metal roof maintenance tips to make it last forever:

• Clean off the metal panels: As a homeowner, you can safely clean your metal roof with dish soap and water. Start by getting some microfiber cloths wet in the bucket and gently wipe them over the panels of your roof to rinse off any soapy residue before using a garden hose to finish cleaning up. A professional could be hired if you want an expert opinion on how best to maintain your metal roof without damaging it or hurting yourself while walking across its surface!
   
  
• Keep snow and ice off the roof: It's best to use a rubber broom or an old towel after the snow storm. This will prevent you from scratching your roof with metal tools which may damage it in some way.
   
  
• Clean the gutters and drains: If your gutters are clogged with leaves, sticks and other debris it can damage the roofing of a home. Getting professional help from someone who is comfortable on ladders or installing gutter guards to prevent future build up could save you money in the long run.
   
  
• Remove debris from valleys: Inspect your property for leaves and branches that can get stuck in those hard-to-reach areas of metal roof panels. Inspect during professional cleaning to prevent scratching the paint or ruining curb appeal by disposing of debris found on the roof.
   
  
• Trim branches near the Roof: If you have any nearby trees, it may be a good idea to hire someone who can trim the branches. This is because if they rub against your roof's paint during strong gusts of wind, this could cause damage and result in scratches on its surface too!
   
  
• Inspect for any damage: If you notice any major scratches or scuffs, signifying that your metal roofing paint might be fading and peeling off in large chunks, it's time to call a professional.
   
  
• Repair scratches: You can remove minor scratches on your roof by applying mineral spirits with a cloth. Buff the scratched area, rinse it off and let it dry before touching up any areas you want to paint.
   
  
• Fix loose panel seams: If the panels of your roof are not properly sealed, moisture could leak into your home. When you hire a professional to inspect it, they'll check for damages and make any necessary repairs including resealing panel seams that aren't fitted together tightly enough.
   
  
• Adjust damaged flashing materials: During a professional inspection, roofing contractors check your flashing's seal and condition to prevent water damage inside of the home. If you have leaking roofs than it is most likely because there are broken or missing flashings that would need repairs immediately in order to avoid further damages.
   
  
• Inspect penetration point areas: When checking for damage, the roofing contractor will check not only you’re flashing but also materials around solar panels and chimneys. They'll make sure there are no holes created by fallen debris as well.
   
  
• Check for corrosion: To prevent corrosion, roofing specialists recommend that you avoid allowing different metals to touch each other. For instance, if your metal roof is next to a range hood with ventilated appliances such as the stove or dishwasher then it's best for them not to be in close proximity and touching one another.
   
  
• Repair rust spots: If you notice rust spots, apply a gentle scrubbing cleanser with a clean cloth. Get rid of as much of the rust as possible and use a garden hose to rinse off the debris. Avoid using a wire brush that could corrode the roofing panels. If you notice corrosion from the rust, lightly sand the rust spot and apply a metal primer to prevent future rusting. If you want, you can paint the area according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Can You Use Pressure Water to Wash a Metal Roof?

It's possible to wash your metal roof with a pressure washer and hot water. A contractor has the equipment needed if you don't feel comfortable climbing on top of your house yourself, though!

If you want to pressure wash your metal roof, keep the following in mind:

• Figure out what type of roof you have: If you know what kind of roofing material and finish your house has, it will help when washing the facade. If you have a flat metal roof that is slippery in certain parts, walking on top might be dangerous so it's best to clean from an elevated platform such as a ladder. On the other hand, if your high-pitched or gabled metal roofs are challenging to walk over comfortably then cleaning them by foot could pose greater risk than benefit for this reason too amongst others.
   
  
• Use the appropriate pressure washer: If you want to use a hot pressure washer with your flat roof, then the 40-degree tip will be great. The high temperature of water and accurate angle can remove debris build-up as well as grime from your roof.
   
  
• Avoid using too much pressure: Although a pressure washer is safe to use on metal roofs, it could cause damage if used for too long or with excessive force.
  
  

Do Metal Roofs Need to Be Repainted?

Many people often neglect the paint system on their metal roofs. If you recently bought a house with old or damaged roofing, contact a professional to repaint your roof for both its protection and enhancement of property value.

Here are some of the ways a paint metal roof treatment can add value to your home:

• Repair damage: Whether you want to fix minor or major damage, a fresh coat of paint can restore the beauty and strength of your roof. If there are just surface damages such as corrosion, chips and small holes on it then all that is needed for replacement is a new layer. However, if significant damage has occurred then replacing with an entirely new one would be more beneficial than trying to patch up existing ones.
   
  
• Protect roof from wear and tear: A high-quality metal roof can last for decades without needing a new paint job, but they may start to look old and chipped. Applying protective acrylic or oil paints will help the surface stay safe from weather damage in that time span.
   
  
• Save money: Repainting your metal roof is an excellent way to save money in the long run. Even if you aren't looking for a buyer any time soon, repainting will reduce how often you'll need to replace it and prevent rusting from occurring which can cause leaks or further damage over time.
   
  
• Enhance curb appeal: Since your roof makes up such a significant part of your exterior property, it is important to have high-quality paint that will leave guests with an excellent impression. A new coat of paint can improve the curb appeal and highlight what you've invested in by improving its quality.
  
  

Caring for Metal Roof Screws

If you own a property with metal roofing, then it is important to maintain the screws that connect these panels. In addition to caring for your metal roof, consider replacing some of the older and rusted out screws on your home during its lifespan.

What Causes Screws to Back Out of a Roof?

The screws could loosen from your metal roof because of:

• Due to Thermal expansion: The roofing contractor should make sure there is enough room for the panels to expand and contract as the temperature changes throughout the year. This will prevent strain on screws that hold roof in place, which could cause them to loosen over time.
   
  
• Compression: In heavy snow or ice, the roof could become compressed and sink lower than its screws. After it melts, the material usually returns to place on its own.
   
  
• Gasket deterioration: A rubber gasket sits between the head of a roof screw and the roof panel. The purpose is to prevent water from coming into the hole, but over time it can deteriorate causing loosening or slipping which could allow leakage inside your house.

How Frequently Should You Replace Screws on a Metal Roof?

When you inspect your roof, check the screws for corrosion and other signs of wear and tear. Lifetime metal roofing screws last as long as your metal roof panels, but their exact lifespan depends on how they are installed by contractors in your local region along with weather conditions throughout the year.

If you want to replace your roof screws, make sure the screw pattern is correct and that there isn't major damage. If none of those are problems, then only use metal roof screws as recommended by manufacturer and don't put too much pressure on them when sealing.

Longevity - Metal Roof Life Expectancy

If you install a metal roof, it can last as long as your stay in the house. There are factors that affect how long your roof will last and when to replace them; these include: where you live in terms of weather conditions (e.g., freezing temperatures), frequency of repairs by contractors, etc.

How Long Do Metal Roofs Last?

A metal roof has the potential to last about half a century or more with proper maintenance. Factors that may influence your metal roof's lifespan before you need to replace it include:

• Installation: A standing seam metal roof can last longer than a screw-down panel one because it allows the panels to expand and contract as the temperature changes. If you want your new roofing contractor, put on correctly, then expect damage soon after installation if they were not careful in their workmanship.
   
  
• Paint finish: Once the roof has been painted, it protects your metal panels from harsh elements like rain and snow. If you find chips in the paint or damage on top of that, then unfortunately this will reduce how long your roof might last.
  
  
• Local weather conditions: Despite its strength, metal roofs are not completely impervious to the elements. Metal panels can dent from impact of hail and snow and potentially pose a problem if fluctuating temperatures cause them to expand or contract.
  
  

How Often Do Metal Roofs Need to Be Replaced?

 During your annual roof inspection, the contractor may recommend a replacement if they notice any of these signs on your metal roof:

• Gaps or cracks in the metal panels
• Movement or shifting that created openings on the roof
• Severe weather damage
• Damaged or missing flashing
• Discoloration, rust or corrosion on one or more of the panels
• Loosened metal roof screws
• Damaged paint finish
  
  

Contact Roofer to Replace or Repair Your Metal Roof

If you want a roof that lasts, metal roofs are your best bet. We've got the contractors to help maintain it and make sure it stays in great condition for years! If you own a business, we can also provide commercial metal roofing so clients will have an even better first impression of your company. Get in touch with Shield Roofing and Sheet Metal today by calling or emailing - let's get started on protecting that valuable investment together!