How To Repair A Metal Roof

Regardless of whether or not you have a metal roof for your home or business, eventually, there will be parts of it that need to be repaired or even replaced altogether. Even though metal roofs are known for their durability and longevity, they still require a regular bit of ongoing maintenance and repair to ensure they stay in top shape.

Metal roofs though, have several issues that are unique to this specific type of roofing material. Even if you may think that metal roof repair is next to impossible, there are several small fixes that can still be performed to make sure it doesn't leak or develop holes. Some of these may be able to be formed by the homeowner, but if you have any hesitation, contact a roofing company for assistance.

Rust Removal

Over time, all metal will eventually begin to rust. In addition to the fact that it doesn't look nearly as good as it did when it was brand-new, rust can also continue to eat through the metal and eventually create gaping holes. In order to prevent this, take a wire brush anytime you see rust and scrub the area thoroughly, then apply a primer that inhibits rust to the affected area. Once you've done that, you want to apply a fresh coat of paint to help it match the rest of your roof.

Corroded Bolts

Not only is the metal in your roof prone to rust and corrosion, but the metal fasteners that hold them together are as well. While you certainly don't want to remove all of them at the same time, inspect various parts of your roof and see which ones are corroding earlier than others, and replace them with rubber fasteners. After you do that, cover the washer with caulk and concealment, then recoat the area.

Seam Repair

If the damage is relatively small and narrow, you may be able to apply a thin membrane coating over the top and bottom to protect against any water leaks. Before you do this though, simply clean the area with a wire brush and then apply roof coating directly to the affected area. Before it dries, apply a thin layer of membrane to the top and the bottom of the affected area, allowing it to overlap on either side.

Fasteners Backing Out

Wind or sound can cause vibrations that go through your metal roof, and your fasteners that are inside your metal roof can start to back out over time. While you can and should replace these with neoprene bolts and washers, you can also screw them back in during part of your visual inspection to ensure another couple of years of usage. Repairing this damage is relatively easy, so don't delay too long in making the necessary metal roof repairs.

For more information about metal roof repair, contact a local roofing company.


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