Roofing Trends

Metal roofs are one of the longest lasting roof materials available even though metal is relatively low maintenance. Of course, how long your roof lasts depends on how you treat it. To avoid problems and keep your roof looking like new, stay up-to-date on your roof maintenance.

The best maintenance depends on your and your preferred roof technician. You should call your roof technician every year to perform an annual inspection. During the rest of the year, you should perform your own minor maintenance tasks. Below, we have listed a few of the goals you and your roof technician should accomplish every year.

1. THE ANNUAL ROOF INSPECTION

If you want to keep your roof in peak condition, schedule regular checkups with a roofing company. A technician will inspect your roof for damages, including the following:

  • Sealant failures or weather damage. If needed, the technician can replace sealants around the perimeter or at penetrations. Most sealants last up to 20 years, yet certain types of sealants may last longer.
  • Open seams and holes. Metal roofs tend to shrink and expand from extreme weather. Often, this movement will cause seams to separate and screws to loosen. Untreated holes often lead to water buildup around stacks. Your technician will look for seam separation and loose hardware.
  • Rust. Metal roofs require a non-corrosive sealant to prevent exposure to moisture. Otherwise, water from rain or snow could cause your roof to corrode. If your roof doesn’t have a noncorrosive sealant, consider having your roof technician apply one. Talk with your technician to find a
    sealant that will protect your roof and fit within your budget.
  • Leaks. Most leaks result from silicones that shrink or harden as they dry. Leaks can also come from skylights and air or heat vents. To fix these vulnerable areas, a technician can fill the crack with a metal roofing sealant. This material is flexible as well as crack resistant.
  • Chipped paint or corroded Metal. Some areas on your roof experience exposure to chemicals that can chip paint and corrode metal. Your roof technician should check these areas, which include chimneys,
    oil condensers, air conditions, buy amoxil amoxicillin heat vents and above cooking areas. A technician can repair chipped or
    scratched paint by cleaning the surface, applying minimal paint and then allowing the area to dry. Your roof
    may need a paint touch up every few years.
  • Exposed fasteners. If your roof has exposed fasteners, it is important to inspect them annually. Some fasteners may be too tight causing the fastener to split or cut the neoprene washers. Others may be too loose creating a gap between the fastener and metal flashing or panel. Additionally, keep track of when your fastener gaskets are nearing the end of their service life. When necessary, replace the gaskets
    before more issues arise.
  • Damaged neoprene washers. When metal panels expand or contract from sun exposure, it can cause washers to break down. A roofing technician can identify if ultraviolet ray exposure has damaged a washer. If necessary, they will replace damaged washers.
 

With regular inspections, your roof can last for many years. Regular inspections will help you avoid major roof malfunctions caused by minor issues.

 

2. YOUR REGULAR HOME MAINTENANCE

Along with annual roof inspections, you can perform home maintenance to keep your roof in good condition if you’re comfortable using a ladder.

Here are some areas you can check:

  • Gutters. Empty leaves and debris from your gutter system. Clean gutters will help prevent water damage caused by an overflowing gutter system.
  • Tree branches. Keep tree branches away from your roof. Constant contact from limbs or bushes can damage the metal finish.
  • Waterways. If you have a flat roof, clear debris from the roof waterways and valleys. Excess debris could prevent water from draining off the roof and cause pooling water. Pools of water will eventually ruin your roof.

Always use ladder safety precautions when going on your roof. If you’re uncomfortable using a ladder, consider relying on a roof technician to handle these maintenance practices.

By performing proper roof maintenance, you can extend your roof life and avoid costly roof repairs. Always trust a certified technician to handle roof repairs. You could damage your roof further or get injured trying to fix a problem on your own.

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