Have you recently installed metal roofing in Huntsville? If so, you might be wondering how you can maintain the roofing to ensure that it lasts for a long time.
In this blog post, we will reveal some tips to properly maintain metal roofing. You will learn about the dos and don’ts to ensure the maximum lifespan of the roofing saving you money in the long run.
1. Clean the Panels
A big part of keeping the metal roofing maintained is to clean the panels. The metal panels can be easily cleaned using water and soap.
Avoid using harsh chemicals as they can damage the metal roofing. You must clean the panels using a microfiber cloth. Dip the cloth in a bucket containing soap water to clean the roof.
Make sure that you wipe off the soap from the panels using a garden hose. Consider hiring the services of experienced roofers to clean the panels. A professional Huntsville roofer will clean the metal roof properly without causing any damage.
2. Trim Branches of Trees
Branches of trees can damage the finishing of the metal roof. They can erode the finishing by rubbing against the panels. It will expose the panels to moisture that will lead to rusting.
Additionally, tree branches can break and damage the metal panels. To avoid damage to the metal roof, you must trim the branches hanging over your hose roof. You should call a professional to cut down dry branches before they fall on the roof.
3. Avoid Foot Traffic
Foot traffic should be avoided to prevent damage to the thin metal roof panels. Walking on the metal roof can deform. It can erode the finishing of the panels that will expose them to weather elements.
In case walking on the roof is important for inspection or other purposes, you should wear soft-soled shoes. These will minimize friction when walking on the roof. Also, you should walk close to the decking to avoid damaging the roof.
4. Repair Panels Using Similar Metal
Avoid repairing the panels using different types of metal. This is important as connecting two different metal types results in galvanic corrosion. This type of corrosion occurs due to the transfer of irons from one metal to another.
Galvanic corrosion can result in damage to the house roof. It can greatly compromise the structural integrity of metal roofing.
To avoid galvanic corrosion, you must use the same metal. If you want to install different metals, you should consider using a nonmetallic material as a buffer between the metals.
5. Repair Scratches, Even Minor Ones
You must repair even minor scratches on the metal surface. Consider using mineral spirits to buff scratches on the surface. Just wipe the scratched surface using a microfiber cloth and then rinse with water. You may want to touch up the repaired roof with paint.
6. Replace Missing Flashing
You should replace missing or damaged flashing to avoid roof damage. The flashing prevents water from flowing over the roof. Damaged flashing will result in water leaking inside. To avoid costly repairs, it is important to carry out the repairs without delay.
7. Fix Loose Panels
Consider repairing loose panels without delay. This is important to prevent moisture from penetrating the surface resulting in rusting.
A professional Huntsville roofer will check loose panels during a routine inspection. The roofer will fix lose panels thereby preventing costly repairs.
Consider annual inspection by experienced Huntsville roofing professional. This will help prevent costly metal roof repairs. Periodic maintenance will help ensure that your metal roof lasts for a long time.