Metal roofs are extremely durable. They can last up to 50 years and some are actually designed to last 70 years or more. But even the best of things encounter problems from time to time.
To bring down your metal roof cost, you need to possess a basic knowledge of metal roofs. So, before typing “metal roofing near me,” get familiar with these five common metal roof problems and their solutions.
Need help with a metal roofing problem right now? Contact our metal roofing experts who will provide you a consult today!
Leaking Metal Roofs
Why Leaks Occur in Metal Roofs
Leaky roofs are the bane of every homeowner. When a metal roof begins to leak, it is often due to a number of things: perhaps the nails have fallen out or the flashing has cracked or become loose, or your roof just needs to be replaced because it has outlasted its lifespan.
The surfaces of metal roofs can also be easily damaged if they are exposed to driving rain or heavy snowfall. These elements can make the surfaces roughened, pitted, or dented – paving way for future water damage.
And during winter, the water from the melting snow can pool on the roofs and lead to leaks, which can allow the water to enter your house via flashing, drainage systems, and vents, and damage your belongings.
How to Fix a Leak in a Metal Roof
When you are trying to track down the source, there are a few simple checks that will give you a good idea as to where the leak is coming from, so you find a proper fix. First, look for wet spots or stains on your ceiling or attic floor.
Then, move toward the inside of your house and look for stains on walls and ceilings near your roof’s edges. Finally, check porches and patios for water as well as nearby landscaping to know exactly what’s causing the leaks. Even if you have already had your roof inspected, it is best to check it again.
When you find a problem, there are two options: fix it yourself or call a professional roofing contractor. Our advice? Because roofing work is done at height, it can be dangerous for you to DIY it. So, let a metal roof installation expert take care of the leaks.
Oil Canning
Why Oil Canning Occurs
Oil canning is the abnormal bulging of a metal roof. It happens when two pieces of metal are in contact with one another and form a slight gap. Over time, water in that gap will rust the exposed metal, creating this wavy pattern.
It can also happen due to thermal expansion or a poor installation job. If the roof is not fixed, oil canning can cause stress concentration, which may lead to buckling – a structural deformation of the entire roof.
Metal roofs are not immune to hail and other weather-related problems, either. For example, hail can rub off paint and rust fasteners, which can further exacerbate the oil canning problem.
How to Fix Oil Canning in Metal Roofs
When going roof shopping, purchase a thick metal roof. Thin metal sheets aren’t resistant to weather and other damages. They are cheap, so they should be seen as a temporary solution and never a permanent purchase. A thick metal roof, however, is worth your investment.
You can also consider adding striations to the roof as oil canning is commonly found in flat roofs. Roofs with ribs and striations have enough room to keep the metal ventilated and prevent thermal expansions and contractions.
Lastly and most importantly, hire a professional to install your metal roofing in Maryland to avoid poor handling during installation, which will force you to spend on roof replacement yet again.
Most Common Metal Roof Problem: Corrosion
Why Corrosion Occurs
This is probably the most common problem with metal roofing. Rust forms when moisture gets underneath your metal roof and reacts with its properties. Corrosion is such a common problem we offer metal roofing maintenance plans to help metal roof owners keep their investment in quality shape.
If your roofing system has corroded, you will often be able to tell so by looking at certain signs, such as rust streaks and rust-colored stains. Corrosion happens quickly and it can weaken the metal, allowing water to seep through the roof, going back to experience leaks from your roof.
How to Prevent and Repair Corrosion in Metal Roofs
Unfortunately, the only way to deal with it is through preventative measures. If you are past the prevention stage, all you can do is replace the roof. Talking to metal roof professionals about preventing corrosion with metal roofs and how to stay up on metal roof presentation maintenance will save a lot of money and time down the line.
For future references, though, you can always speak to an experienced metal roofer in Maryland to advise you on the best types of metal roofs for your geography and the accessories (ex. nails) that go along well with it before making a purchase.
Be Aware of Cross-Contamination
What is Cross-Contamination with Metal Roofing
Cross-contamination doesn’t just happen in food. Even the best quality of metal roofs can react with each other and experience damage. This is also known as galvanic corrosion.
Galvanic corrosion happens when two different metals come in contact (ex. a metal roof and a copper plumbing pipe) with a corrosion-inducing element (ex. water). It happens when the properties of two dissimilar metals aren’t suitable for each other, and therefore, produce an undesirable reaction like corrosion, especially when moisture is introduced.
It goes without saying that cross-contamination leads to other types of metal roofing problems, like the ones mentioned in this article, which can increase your maintenance and repair costs.
Repairing Metal Roof Cross-Contamination
As mentioned before, the only way to deal with corrosion is through prevention. Avoid bringing your metal roofs in direct contact with treated lumber, concrete, copper, and bricks. And consult an expert metal roofer near you to learn more about the best roof installation practices.
Local Maryland metal roof experts can help you stay on stop of preventive maintenance for metal roofing to avoid corrosion and other cross-contamination issues.
Keep Your Metal Roof Value by Preventing Fading Paint
Why Metal Roof Paint Fades
Metal roofs are susceptible to fading from exposure to the elements, especially harsh sunlight. And it isn’t much of a problem when the paint on your roof fades evenly, giving it a uniform appearance. It is a problem when one part of your roof fades due to the sun and the other stays the same because it is usually protected by the shadow from the trees or the like.
Keeping Your Metal Roof Fresh
Sometimes, there isn’t much you can do about the discoloration. But if your roof is new or fairly new, replacing the paint with epoxy coating may be the best solution for you. You should also get in touch with a qualified roofing contractor to know exactly what works for your geography and existing weather conditions.
Conclusion
Metal roofs are extremely beneficial but do come with their own problems and solutions. Working with the right roofing company to stay on top of preventative maintenance for metal roofing means keeping your home value and investment longer. Once you get started, it will be easy to maintain!
