Metal roofs have several benefits, including longevity, durability, low maintenance, and energy efficiency. Many homeowners might make the mistake of ignoring the state of their roofs because metal roofs are low-maintenance. The assumption that the low-maintenance quality of metal roofs equates to no maintenance is wrong. Just like any roof, your metal roof needs some regular maintenance routines you need to perform.
In this article, we will discuss some maintenance practices that can help your metal roof remain in good condition. We will also enlighten you on the necessary maintenance for your screw-down metal roofing and standing seam and how much metal roof maintenance costs.
Does a Metal Roof Need Roof Maintenance?
Every roofing type requires maintenance and inspection at least once a year. And metal roofs are no exception despite their low maintenance quality. However, the type and frequency of maintenance a metal roof needs depends on the kind of metal roof.
There are two significant types of metal roofing systems that you can choose from. They require different types and frequencies of maintenance. They are screw-down and standing seam metal roofs. Screw-down metal roofs are metal panels that are held down with screws and washers that stay open to the elements. While standing seam metal roofs are panels mechanically seamed or locked together in succession.
Standing Seam Metal Roof Maintenance
After installing a standing seam metal roof, it needs minimal maintenance. However, it would be best to practice frequent inspections on the roof penetrations, including skylights, gas pipes, and vent pipes. The collar and boots around such penetrations will need replacement before the end of the roof’s lifespan. The chances of them outlasting the metal roof are low. Hence, there is a need for inspections. Failure to check the flashings surrounding the roof penetrations may lead to leaks. Aside from regular inspections, occasional cleaning is the only general maintenance you need.
Screw Down Metal Roof Maintenance
Compared to standing seam metal roofs, screw-down metal roofs are not as low maintenance. Because of their design, which exposes their fasteners, they experience thermal expansion and contraction. This constant expansion and contraction put pressure on the screw-down roof, demanding more maintenance. Experts advise replacing the crews at five- to ten-year intervals to prevent significant damage to your roofing system. Failure to do so will make you spend money on extensive repairs or roof replacement.
Importance of Yearly Maintenance of Metal Roofs
Despite knowing all you know about metal roofing maintenance, including the fact that regular inspection is crucial and the different metal roofing systems have varying requirements, some people still need to be convinced that it is necessary.
If our explanation didn’t convince you earlier, the three significant reasons why you need to maintain and regularly inspect your metal roof will likely do:
Maintenance helps homeowners detect problems early
The most significant reason your metal roof needs maintenance is that you can spot problems and even prevent issues waiting to happen. Without maintenance or inspection, minor problems that you could have easily fixed if you had detected them early will escalate and become major ones. When this happens, it puts your home’s safety at risk and makes you spend money on extensive repairs.
For illustration, a damaged boot around a penetration is minor damage you can easily fix without spending much. However, if you do not replace it early because you didn’t conduct maintenance to detect it, it could further damage your roofing system or ceiling. Fixing such damage will cost you a lot more. Another example is clogged gutters. While this is not damage, it could cause damage if you do not clean your gutters to prevent clogging, which causes leaks in your roof when you do not address it in time.
Maintenance helps metal roofs reach their estimated lifespan
In addition to a boost in your home’s value, the return on investment of your roof is the measure or duration of time it serves you. Purchasing and installing a metal roof is not cheap; it is a huge investment that anyone would want to get the best value for, including longevity. Practicing roof maintenance helps your roof make the most of its lifespan and helps your roof reach its estimated lifespan.
Imagine installing a metal roof with expectations to serve you for about 30 years and having that cut short because of negligence and failure to care for it. No homeowner wants that. Hence, it is crucial to maintain your metal roof.
Maintenance gives you assurance and peace of mind
It is the dream of every homeowner to have a property and not lose their minds worrying about its safety. Most homeowners are assured and at peace when they get a new roof. It is one of the significant benefits of installing a new roof. Without proper maintenance, this peace of mind won’t last long because you may start to deal with serious problems that you could have avoided if you had not neglected your roof.
At the end of each maintenance inspection, you feel the ease of knowing you have nothing to worry about regarding your property’s safety. And even if your roofing contractor detects problems or possible problems, you will be at peace knowing it won’t cost you a lot of money and maybe time. You won’t have to deal with leaks and problems arising from it.
What Is the Cost of a Metal Roof Maintenance?
Now that you’ve been convinced that your metal roof needs maintenance despite being low maintenance, you might be wondering about the cost. For every roofing company, the charge is different. However, a metal roof maintenance inspection generally costs between $120 and $400.
The size of your metal roof, its complexity, and accessibility will determine where yours falls within the price range. Although this may seem expensive without the details of the service you’ll be getting, you can rest assured that you will get your money’s worth. For most companies that offer roof maintenance inspection services, their prices cover specific repairs and yearly roof inspections. In addition, they have other attractions like gutter cleaning and discounted repair prices.
However, you should know that the cost estimate is only for maintenance inspection. Resolving and fixing issues will attract more charges, except if a warranty covers it.
Conclusion
It doesn’t really matter when you install your roof. Regardless of whether it was three or thirty years ago, it is crucial to perform maintenance inspections on your roof regularly, especially if you want to keep enjoying its benefits. Regular maintenance inspections will help you “stitch” a problem in time to save you from having “nine stitches” to deal with.
Furthermore, inspecting your metal roof regularly will help you sleep well at night because you won’t have thoughts of your roof damage running through your mind. Knowing a reputable, skilled contractor has inspected and performed maintenance on your roof to catch problems early will make you feel more confident in your home’s safety and security.
To wrap things up, we recommend hiring a skilled roofing contractor to carry out a maintenance inspection on your metal roof if you want your roof to reach its estimated lifespan and give you a return on your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I inspect my metal roof?
Experts recommend that you inspect your metal roof at least two times a year, especially during the fall and spring. Another strategic time to inspect your roof is after harsh weather conditions like hail storms or heavy snowfall.
Can you repair rust on a metal roof?
Yes, you can repair surface rust on your metal roof. You can do so by using a wire brush and a primer to inhibit rust before coating. If there is structural damage due to the rust, you may need to invite an expert to assess the situation and fix the problem.
How can I clean a metal roof?
A mild, non-abrasive solution is the best way to clean a metal roof. An example of such a solution is a water and gentle detergent solution. Use a low-pressure washer or brush with soft bristles to avoid scratching your roof’s surface. However, for specific cleaning instructions, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
