Steps On How To Maintain Your Metal Roof
Whether your metal roof has been applied in the form or rigid sheets or molded into shingles that appear woodlike on an older or traditional home, metal roofing will offer your home or office with durability associated with steel. Regardless of what type of metal roof you have over your home, the correct maintenance will promote a much longer life. Here are a few steps on how to maintain your metal roof.
1. Try not to stand on your roof. The metal surfaces are thin and will not support your weight as the wooden roofs do. You certainly won’t fall through your roof but you might accidentally damage or dent the panels. If you do need to walk over the roof rather walk on the purlins and joists, which offer horizontal support to the structure.
2. Blow off, pick up, or sweep any debris away that might have collected on the surface of the roof, like branches or leaves. Dirt accumulation is more common on flatter roofs. If you have noticed sap or biological growth use water and a brush that is stiff to clean these areas. Cleaning the roof with a roof cleaner and a hose every 12 months will keep the surface of your roof looking great.
3. Replace or tighten any screws that have come loose or dislodged. Make sure the replacement screws are the same metal as your roof. When you install any new screws, make sure you only install them in the raised areas. Positioning screws in any of the lower areas might result in water puddling, which will result in rust.
4. Check the sealants along the edges and seams. Even though there are sealants designed to last the same lifetime as the roof, some have an average life expectancy of 20 years. Replace when needed and touch-up missing or worn paint in order to stop the roof from rusting. These types of inspections are important after any severe storms, or when snow has built-up on your roof. If you notice any rust, this usually means that the anti-corrosion coating has started to wear off. Hire a roofing contractor to detect the cause.
5. Repair separated holes or seams. Even though it is easy to reseal a loose seam in the way of tightening the screws. Damages and holes will require professional roofing services. If there are gaps present, this can result in water damaging your underlying roof-structure which could lead to leaks inside the home.