Choosing to have a metal roofing system installed at your home or business will provide you with added aesthetic appeal, durable protection against the elements and a low maintenance roofing system that can last for 50+ years. The upkeep of a metal roofing system is fairly minimal, but shouldn’t be ignored. Seasonal maintenance will ensure your metal roofing is in great condition for decades to come and can help prevent any potential issues from arising.
To help you simplify your roofing maintenance routine, we have put together a few ways to care for your metal roof.
But first, before we share any maintenance details, a few safety tips:
Only attempt completing maintenance routines you are comfortable with. If climbing a ladder or inspecting the top of your roof causes you any anxiety or uneasiness, have a professional complete your seasonal maintenance for you. It is not worth putting your safety at risk, if you are not comfortable with heights.
If you are an experienced handyman or comfortable with completing the maintenance yourself, attempting your metal roofing maintenance requires you to consider these safety requirements:
- Wear soft-sole shoes so that you do not leave marks on your metal roof. Shoe marks are not easy to remove and adds additional cleaning to your maintenance routine.
- Keep foot traffic on your roof to a minimal, try not walking on the rake flashing, or the ridge flashing as they can damage easily.
Metal Roof Maintenance
Thoroughly Clean Gutters
Leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris clog the gutter system, leading to leaking, overflow, and other potential roofing damage. This debris can also lead to clogged downspouts, leading to more water flow issues and potential leaks. Cleaning your gutters in the spring and fall will help ensure that leaves and debris do not accumulate in your eavestrough.
Trim Away Branches
Branches extending over your roof need to be trimmed, as these branches can lead to damage as they rub against your metal roofing. Stormy weather will cause these overextended tree limbs to dent or scratch your roof. It is also a good idea to clear any branches and leaves that have fallen of trees and settled on your roof at this time. In case you notice any signs of damage during a roof inspection, contact a professional to ascertain there are no underlying issues to address.
Check for Any Visual Damage
Visually inspect your metal roofing for any cracks, holes, or separated seams. This type of damage can lead to water leaking into your home and causing damage. Metal roof leakage is rare, but is possible around seams or air vents. Severe weather events can cause cracking and warping of silicone seals that can lead to leakage. Identify cracks and fill them with metal roofing sealant, or call a metal roofing professional to inspect and repair the damage.
Inspect for Corrosion
Check the areas around any air vents, chimneys, air conditioners, satellites or anything else that may be attached to or protruding from your roofing. These areas release chemicals, heat, and steam that break down your metal roof paint and can lead to corrosion. If any corrosion is found, clean around the area and touch up immediately with approved paint.
Check for Loose Roofing
Check for any loose roofing sheets, flashings, ridge caps, fasteners, venting materials or closures, and so on. High winds and other extreme weather conditions can cause some pieces of your roofing to come loose. Ensuring all pieces are secure will prevent any damage from occurring to your roof and possibly anyone or any personal property below.
Taking the time to inspect your metal roofing twice a year will ensure your roof is in great condition and continues to protect your home or business for years to come.