Metal is a modern, long-lasting roofing material that may improve the exterior appeal of your property. Even though it is more durable than other forms of roofing, it is nevertheless susceptible to wear and tear due to harsh weather conditions and incorrect upkeep. To keep your metal roofing in good condition it is best to use some simple tactics to keep it functioning and looking its best.
Cut any nearby tree branches
Nearby tree around your home adds a number of uses like the addition of shade, privacy from your neighbors, and aesthetic appeal. Mature trees also add benefits to your roof by blocking winds which are especially important during severe windstorms, protecting against UV rays, and reducing the summer temperatures on your roof and home. However, to maintain your roof it is also important to maintain the surrounding trees to ensure they do not damage your metal roofing.
Trees have the potential of falling on your roof if they become weak or unstable. In addition, severe windstorms can cause trees in any condition to topple over. Trees can also have dropping branches that can easily scratch the surface with small branches, and dents can occur if the branches are large enough. In general, the tips of a tree’s branch should be at least 2 meters or 6 feet from the metal roofing of your home. Furthermore, when you are planning to grow a large tree around your home it is best to plant them 6 to 9 meters or 20 to 30 feet away from your home.
For current trees around your home, there is simple maintenance you can do to prevent any damage to your metal roofing. All tree branches that are too close to the roof should be pruned. It is advisable to hire an arborist to remove overhanging branches since they can safeguard your roof while they work. Alternatively, you may employ the same tactics that you would do to safeguard your home and yard during a roof installation. Furthermore, if you discover that you need to prune more than 25% of the tree, it may be wiser to cut down the tree totally. A tree that has been severely pruned is likely to wither and topple over. For younger trees, you can prune them to ensure that they develop strong branches and are less likely to break off in an event of a storm. Lastly, trees that are unstable or very ill should be removed as soon as possible before they fall onto your roof. First, consult your city’s bylaws and your arborist as some tree species are endangered and cannot be removed. Other regions also make it illegal to remove trees with a specific trunk diameter. It is important to call your city’s law office for details before cutting any tree down.
Routinely clean gutters
Your gutters are intended to channel excess water away from your property. If your gutters and downspouts are clogged with leaves, twigs, bird’s nests, and other debris, the system will not function properly. When it rains, the moisture on the roof will not drain effectively. Water may then linger on top of your roofing materials for an extended period of time, trickling down the side of your property and accumulating next to the foundation slab. This may cause substantial damage to not only your roof but also the siding, external walls, and concrete over time, jeopardizing some of your home’s most vital structural components. Gutter maintenance might seem like a small task but it does make a big difference when they are cleaned. If you want to prevent these kinds of effects, you should incorporate gutter cleaning into your home maintenance routine. Gutters should be cleaned completely at least once or twice a year, preferably after the autumn season. This prevents debris collection and increases the lifespan of your gutter system.
Look for and fix scratches, scuffs, chipping, or flaking
Surface scratches can be caused by a variety of factors, including installation error or a tiny branch striking the roof during a storm. Fortunately, many minor surface scratches may be repaired using a touch-up paint pen that matches the color of the roof. The most important thing to remember when applying touch-up paint is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Touching up a roof without first consulting the manufacturer might make the imperfection worse or cancel the roof warranty entirely. Furthermore, if scratches, scuffs, or other paint system damage is extensive, do not attempt to repair the problem yourself and instead contact the manufacturer promptly.
Clean the surface of the metal roof
Cleaning the surface of your metal roofing will help keep it looking and functioning great for years. However, the combination of UV rays and contact with oxygen in the air will naturally cause the paint to degrade over time. If you detect a white, powdery residue on the surface of your roof, this is a sign of chalking. A frequent indicator that oxidation has begun to wear the surface of the paint. It does not indicate that your roof is at risk, but it does indicate that you should clean it. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and spot touch-ups, will assist to reduce the effects of oxidation and maintain your metal roof investment.
All you need to clean your metal roof is a washcloth, sponge, soft-bristled brush, or cleaning pad. It is critical to utilize only non-abrasive materials because paint scratches may cause it to disintegrate faster since oxidation might reach deeper below the surface. In most circumstances, you may simply remove dirt using water and your cleaning tools. If there is a buildup of sap, grease, or other contaminants, water mixed with a light detergent can be used to help break it up. Laundry detergent, car-washing detergent, and dish soap are all mild enough to be used on metal roofs. If difficult stains occur, use bleach, rubbing alcohol, or mineral spirits to spot-clean them. However, do not use these products to clean the whole surface. If you are unsure which products can be used on your metal roof it is always best to first consult with your manufacturer before applying any solutions on the surface of your roof.
Avoid standing on the roof
Depending on the type of metal on your roof it is generally best to avoid walking or standing on a metal roof. You can complete most of your maintenance from the top of a ladder. However, if the need to reach different portions of the roof arises like touching up some scratches or chipped paint, it is best to speak with a professional who can safely reach those sections without causing damage to the roof material. In order to safely walk on your roof you need to understand the roof type, have the right shoes, roof-top support equipment, and ensure the conditions are right. In addition, some roofing manufacturers have other prerequisites to these roofs such as not exerting force on certain areas to avoid damage.
Employing some of these tricks not only keeps your metal roof in good shape but it also prevents problems before they occur, prolongs the life span of the roof, and helps retain the roof’s overall appeal. Metal roofing is designed to last close to a lifetime, but like many other items, it requires regular maintenance. Work with a roofing professional to plan regular roof maintenance. This will assist to extend its lifespan by addressing any possible issues. Aside from protecting your metal roof from damage, it is critical to maintaining its appeal because it makes a huge impact on our homes and businesses. Maintaining it ensures that you get the most value from your metal roofing.
