Metal Roof Maintenance: Complete Guide

When you’re planning to install a new roof on your home, you’re likely wondering if it’s necessary to perform regular maintenance. The short answer is yes. While a new metal roof is installed correctly and may last for decades, you’ll want to ensure you keep it in excellent condition for as long as possible.

Here are the key points highlighting the importance of maintaining a metal roof:

• Longevity: Regular maintenance ensures that your metal roof lasts longer. By addressing any issues promptly, you can prevent minor problems from escalating into major ones. This extends the lifespan of your roof and saves you from costly repairs or premature replacement.

• Weather resistance: Metal roofs are highly durable and known for their resistance to various weather conditions. However, even metal roofs can suffer from damage over time due to factors such as extreme temperatures, storms, or UV radiation. Proper maintenance helps identify and repair any damage, ensuring the roof remains resilient against harsh weather elements.

• Energy efficiency: A well-maintained metal roof contributes to energy efficiency in your home or building. Inspecting the roof for any gaps, loose seams, or damaged insulation helps maintain proper insulation levels. This prevents energy loss and reduces heating or cooling costs, making your property more environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

• Preventing leaks: Regular maintenance helps identify and fix potential leaks before they cause significant damage. Metal roofs can develop leaks due to factors like loose fasteners, damaged flashing, or rust. Addressing these issues promptly prevents water infiltration, which can lead to interior damage, mold growth, and structural problems.

• Preserving appearance: Metal roofs are not only functional but can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of a property. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and repainting when necessary, helps preserve the roof's appearance. This ensures that your property maintains its curb appeal, which can be particularly important for commercial buildings or if you plan to sell your home in the future.

• Warranty compliance: Many metal roofs come with manufacturer warranties that require regular maintenance to remain valid. Neglecting maintenance obligations may void your warranty, leaving you responsible for repair costs that would otherwise be covered. Adhering to maintenance guidelines ensures you can take advantage of the warranty protection if any issues arise.

• Safety considerations: A well-maintained metal roof contributes to a safer living or working environment. Regular inspections help identify potential hazards such as loose panels, protruding fasteners, or other structural issues that may pose risks to people below. Ensuring the roof's integrity protects the occupants of the building and prevents accidents or injuries.

What Maintenance Does a Metal Roof Need?

Maintaining a metal roof involves specific tasks to ensure its optimal performance and longevity. Here are the key maintenance activities typically required for a metal roof:

• Regular inspections: Conduct routine inspections of the metal roof to identify any signs of damage, wear, or potential issues. Inspect for loose or missing fasteners, damaged or lifted panels, rust, corrosion, or any other visible abnormalities.

• Clean debris: Remove debris such as leaves, branches, dirt, and other materials that accumulate on the roof. Debris can clog drainage systems, trap moisture, and potentially damage the roof's surface. Regular cleaning helps prevent these issues and allows for effective water runoff.

• Gutter maintenance: Clean and clear the gutters and downspouts regularly to ensure proper water drainage. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and overflow, leading to water damage to the roof, fascia, and foundation. Maintain gutters to prevent these problems.

• Address rust and corrosion: Metal roofs can develop rust or corrosion over time, especially in areas exposed to moisture. Inspect the roof for any signs of rust or corrosion and promptly address the affected areas. Remove the rust, apply appropriate coatings or sealants, and repaint if necessary.

• Sealant and coating inspection: Check the condition of sealants and protective coatings on the metal roof. Over time, these materials can deteriorate, crack, or peel, compromising the roof's integrity. Reapply or repair sealants and coatings as needed to maintain their effectiveness.

• Flashing maintenance: Inspect and maintain the flashing around chimneys, vents, skylights, and other roof penetrations. Ensure the flashing is intact, securely attached, and properly sealed. Address any damaged or deteriorated flashing to prevent water leaks.

• Clear snow and ice: If you live in a snowy or icy climate, remove snow and ice from the roof to prevent excessive weight and ice dam formation. Use appropriate tools and techniques to clear the roof safely without causing damage to the metal surface.

• Trim tree branches: Trim back overhanging tree branches that may pose a risk of falling onto the roof. Branches can scrape or damage the roof surface during storms and contribute to the accumulation of debris.

• Professional maintenance: Consider hiring a professional roofing contractor to conduct periodic inspections and maintenance. They have the expertise, equipment, and knowledge to identify and address any potential issues effectively.

• Documentation and records: Keep a record of all maintenance activities, inspections, and repairs performed on the metal roof. This documentation helps track the roof's history, warranty compliance, and aids in future maintenance planning.
  

A roofer will maintain your roof in many ways. They can check on it and make repairs if necessary. They can also inspect the roof for leaks or damage as part of a routine inspection.

Roof Inspectors may also reseal the roof to prevent moisture accumulation, which is essential because even minor leaks can cause major problems over time. If you have a metal roof, a good roofer will know how to repair the damage that might occur if you don't do regular maintenance.

Depending on where you live, your roofer may also be able to install an additional layer of protection for your roof by installing an asphalt shingle or metal tiles. This extra coverage can help protect your home from hail storms, wind, and other weather damage.

While there’s no set interval for when you’ll need to get metal roof maintenance done, it’s recommended that you do it at least twice per year. Doing this will help ensure your roof stays clean and debris-free. It will also help you catch any issues early, so they don’t become major problems.



However, if you live in a rainy or snowy area, you may need to do it more frequently. Places that get a lot of rain or snow may leave your roof covered in debris, which will need removing.

But, again, doing this will help keep your roof in excellent condition and prevent damage.

At TruChoice Roofing, we are roof maintenance and repair experts. We have experience with all types of roofing systems, including metal roofing.

Like all roofing systems, metal roofs must be inspected and repaired regularly to ensure they remain in good condition.

Call us today to discuss your roof maintenance needs if you have a metal roof or are considering installing one. We will work with you to create a maintenance plan that fits your budget and your roof's specific needs.