Metal Roof Maintenance Tips
Metal roofs have been gaining in popularity over the past several years. Originally they were the province of commercial buildings, but improvements in the quality and beauty of metal roofs has led to a marked increase among homeowners. Metal Roofs provide a number of benefits to homeowners and owners of commercial properties.
Lowered insurance premiums and energy bills, as well as the high ratio of recycled steel in most metal roofing systems, appeal to budget- and environment-conscious individuals. Although they usually require professional installation, metal roofs last up to 50 years and require little maintenance in comparison to other roof types.
- Inspect the roof on a regular basis to ensure adequate drainage. Clean gutters of all leaves and debris, and ensure that liquids from HVAC (Heating, Cooling and Air Conditioning) equipment drain from the roof via PVC piping and drain pans. Watch for dips and dents that may allow accumulation of water in a particular area.
- Keep different metals separate. For example, keep copper pipes from touching steel roof systems. When different types of metal come into contact with each other and eventually become wet, they will break down in a process called electrolytic corrosion.
- Mix a few drops of dish soap into a bucket of water. Dip a cloth into the bucket, and then clean uncoated metal roofing with this solution. Rinse with clear water from a garden hose.
- Pour a small amount of mineral spirits onto a clean cloth if your metal roof has scratches. Clean the scratched portion of the roof with the mineral spirits, and then rinse with clear water and allow it to dry. Dab a small paintbrush into metal touch-up paint, and then cover the scratched area with the paint.
- Rub a gentle scrubbing cleanser onto rust spots on metal roofing, using a clean cloth. Remove all the rust possible, and then rinse with clear water from a garden hose. Do not scrape the rust with a wire brush. If the rust has caused corrosion, sand it lightly to remove the rust completely, and then apply a metal primer to protect the roof from future rust. Apply touch-up paint to the metal primer for aesthetic purposes, if you wish.
- Check the roof for damage after bad weather conditions. Repair loose pieces or damaged panels, or contact the installer for assistance with these issues. If you have access to the underside of the roofing system, you may be able to push dents back out without professional assistance.
- Sweep accumulations of leaves and pine needles from the roof when it accumulates, using a long-handled broom or brush, or a tool called a roof rake. Use extreme caution if cleaning a roof with a metal tool, as it may scrape and damage the protective coating of the roof.
***Caution***
- Only walk on the areas of a metal roof that are supported by structural members. The dips and dents that may allow ponding are easily caused by excessive traffic on non-supported roof areas.
- Do not use compounds, caulk or roof cement to fix leaks on your metal roof. Proper repair of a leak involves removal of the metal panel and installation of a new, undamaged piece.
The best way to ensure your metal roofs lasts for decades is to hire a professional company to install and maintain it. Call us at Buildpro if you have any questions. Our toll-free number is 866-312-3794