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Essential Do’s and Don'ts of Metal Roof Maintenance

Metal roofs are renowned for their durability and longevity but still require maintenance to get the most out of them. Read on to learn the essential things you need to know about metal roof maintenance.

By Michelle AbanPublished 11 months ago 7 min read
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You put tons of money, time and effort into choosing the best metal roof for your house. So it seems to reason that you want it to be safe and realize its maximum potential. This is where proper metal roof maintenance comes in. However, different metal roofing maintenance materials necessitate different levels of upkeep.

Unfortunately, there is some misconception about whether or not there is a need for maintenance for metal roofs. To address this, we'll go over metal roof maintenance, the do’s and don’ts of such upkeep.

From this blog you'll understand whether a metal roof requires maintenance and why you need a roof maintenance schedule on a quarterly basis.

Does Your Metal Roof Require Maintenance?

Metal roof systems are classified into two types according to home improvement experts. These are categorized as standing seam and screw down. Both are good roof systems as long as they are correctly placed.

Now, going back to the question “Do metal roof needs maintenance?” At the end of the day, your metal roof, like any other, requires maintenance. The quantity of metal roof maintenance required, however, is determined by the sort of metal roof system you have.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Maintenance

Except for penetrations such as vent pipes, gas pipes, and so on, essentially no maintenance is necessary when a standing seam roof is constructed.

These pipes' boots and collars will never outlast any roof system. Failure to inspect the flashing around your metal roof's penetrations on a regular basis will result in a roof leak. Aside from that, the only other routine maintenance required is cleaning. This however is a personal preference for each customer.

Because a standing seam metal roof need little maintenance, it should be inspected at least once a year. Don't let your metal roof investment deteriorate because you were unwilling to hire someone to come out and inspect it. Hiring a professional roofer is the best solution for this to help save tons of money that might result to future accidents and other series of unfortunate events.

Screw Down Metal Roof Maintenance

The fasteners on a screw down metal are revealed since they are screwed through the metal panels, unlike a standing seam. This prevents the metal panels from naturally expanding and contracting as a result of thermal expansion.

The screws eventually wallow out the washer holes when a screw-down metal roof ages due to pressure brought on by the lack of expansion and contraction. Consequently, compared to a standing seam metal roof, a screw down metal roof requires more upkeep.

To eliminate roof leaks, have your local roofing professional come out every 5-10 years or so to replace all of the screws. Failure to do so results in larger, more expensive problems, as well as the danger of a powerful storm tearing the screw down metal roof off.

Unfortunately, most individuals don't get their metal roof maintenance until it's too late and leaks are visible. To avoid this, have a roofing contractor inspect the screws on your screw down metal roof on a yearly basis.

Do’s and Don’ts of Metal Roof Maintenance

Residential metal roofs are among the most durable solutions you can purchase, and they don't require much maintenance, as roofing material vendors would accurately inform you. In fact, it has been demonstrated that residential metal roofs can endure for more than 30 years with no upkeep.

To make sure your metal roofing goods endure longer, you need to know a few important things you can do. To increase the lifespan of your metal roof, make sure to heed the following dos and don'ts:

Do’s

Do Away with Branches

Branches from trees and bushes can scratch up your roof in addition to getting into your gutters and collecting leaves and other waste. A tough branch can seriously harm the metal roof sheets if it scrapes and rubs against your roof for an extended period of time. Branches should ideally be kept pruned to at least six inches from your roof.

Observe and Clean

At least twice on an annual basis, as well as after major storms, you should inspect your roof. You can gently wash your roof with water and a solvent cleaner if you notice any stains or grime on it. Always rinse to eliminate any residue.

Clear the Gutters

Keep gutters free of debris to prolong the lifespan of residential metal roofing. This is true if there are many trees around your home, but even if there aren't, you should still do this at least twice a year.

If you are living in an area with a lot of trees, you should clean your gutters more frequently since leaves and other debris in them can actually stop your metal roof from drying up after it has rained or snowed. Your roof may deteriorate and eventually needs to be replaced if it cannot dry.

Don’ts

Walk More Than Is Necessary on It

Although some foot traffic on your roof cannot be avoided, you should keep it to a minimum. Although metal roofs are strong enough to support the weight, it is not a good idea to walk on them frequently. Make sure you are aware with the manufacturer's instructions if you must walk on top of your metal roof.

Using a Sprayer to Paint

Overspray can all too easily land on your roof! Your metal roof's appearance can be harmed by even the slightest breeze, and once paint has been applied to the materials, there is absolutely no way to save them. Never use a sprayer; always use a brush or a roller.

DIY Installation

If the roof of your house is improperly constructed, you run the danger of harming other areas of the building. Even though some people are successful at doing it themselves, it is always advised that you work with a home metal roofing company to make sure the project is done properly.

With regard to practicality and aesthetics, knowledgeable roofing material suppliers may discuss your alternatives with you and will be aware of which metals shouldn't be used with your roof's materials. With a roof that looks fantastic and performs flawlessly, you may feel secure.

Tips for a Safe Metal Roof Maintenance Procedure

Don't try to inspect your roof if climbing your ladder or standing on your roof makes you uncomfortable. Your safety is of the highest concern, thus, it's best to hire a roofing expert you can rely on to perform the work on your behalf. Avoid putting yourself in danger needlessly.

When performing any metal roof maintenance, including standing seam metal roof repair, be sure to go through and abide by this checklist of safety standards if you are an experienced handyman and confident that you are prepared to take on the project:

Ensure Your Fall Protection Is Osha-Approved

Put On Soft-Soled Footwear

Avoid wearing footwear with black soles since the stains they leave on your metal roof's surface can be tricky to remove, making metal roof maintenance even more difficult.

Cut Down on Foot Traffic

Never step on the hip or ridge flashings, any fiberglass panel, any skylight, the gutters, or the rake flashings. To avoid slipping, only walk on the metal roof panel's flat surfaces and close to supports.

Conclusion

QDRUSA wants to make certain that every homeowner gets the most out of their roof investment. That is why this company will take the time to inform you all you need to know before purchasing a new roof.

This award-winning construction and roofing company offers the best services that’s worth the money you invest in. Contact them today for more information!

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About the Creator

Michelle Aban

I work as an SEO Content Strategist, Social Media Manager, Digital Marketer, Freelancer & an ESL Teacher. I enjoy sharing my experiences & knowledge, as well as promoting things that I give a significant impact on the lives of others.

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