Metal Roofing for Beginners – Part III: Caring for Metal Roofing

Metal roofs are durable and can last a long time, but they do need some care and maintenance, despite being easier to maintain than other types of roofing materials. If you’re considering a metal roof for your home or if you already have one installed and are wondering how to properly maintain it, below are some tips that will ensure your roof reaches or exceeds its expected lifespan.

Perform regular inspections

Like any other roofing materials, metal roofs can experience distress from the elements that can lead to sealant and fastener failure – one of the most common problems of metal roofing systems. Fortunately, these types of issues can easily be detected and fixed. It’s best to perform inspections on a periodic basis, and particularly after a storm. You should also inspect the drainage and gutters for any blockages.

Walking on a metal roof

When performing inspections, or in any other instance that you will need to walk on your metal roof, remember that you should walk over the purlins and joists to prevent accidental bending of the roof panels. Additionally, it is important to note that metal roofs aren’t ideal places to enjoy a sunny afternoon because they are prone to scratches that will expose the steel. If this happens and the scratch is not fixed, the steel can corrode over time.

Cleaning

A metal roof can be cleaned with water alone. It usually doesn’t need to be scrubbed with detergent or other harsh chemicals, unless it’s covered with hard-to-remove dirt such as bird droppings, for instance. In the event that you do need to scrub a roof, do so with care so as not to scratch the coating and expose the steel. Additionally, if you need to remove a buildup of snow, use a roof rake that won’t scratch the protective surface.

Follow the pointers given above, and you’ll find that your metal roof isn’t all that difficult to maintain. However, if you want your roof to last longer, we recommend having it inspected by a professional, especially if the roof has a steep slope. Metal roofs can be slippery, and walking on one can be dangerous. If you aren’t prepared in terms of safety, then it’s best you leave the maintenance work to professionals.