A roof is a structural covering of a building, which comprises materials such as shingles, tiles, metal, plastic, or tar. It protects a structure’s walls, foundations, and inner components from the elements.
Roofing is made to withstand extreme temperatures, wind, rain, snow, and other environmental conditions, promoting the building’s safety, security, and durability. The roof is one of the essential parts of a structure, whether a house, commercial, or industrial building.
Therefore, the type of roof on your structure deserves significant consideration. Metal roofs are among the best kinds of roofing to invest in.
The elegant appearance of a metal roof, combined with its strength and longevity, makes it a preferred roofing choice for commercial properties and residences. Metal roofing repair will be a great money saver.
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— Austin Roofing & Water Damage | WDR (@WDRofAustin) July 28, 2023
The Benefits of Metal Roofing
Homeowners who want to protect their houses and increase property value turn to durable materials like metal roofing. A metal roof has the properties to stand the test of time compared to alternatives, such as a traditional shingle roof.
Whether you are installing a new roof or replacing it, metal roofing experts will recommend installing a metal roofing system because of its many benefits.
- Value. The cost of a metal roof may seem like a lot compared to other materials. However, when looking at the long-term picture, it is the wisest choice. Metal roofs require minimal maintenance, do not need to be replaced soon, can be re-painted, and might even add to the market value of your property.
- Durability. Metal roofing can withstand whatever Mother Nature can dish out. From protecting homes against extreme temperatures, strong winds, hail, sea air, and even fire, metal roofing is built to stand the test of time and requires minimal upkeep.
- Efficiency. The roof of a property can cause substantial amounts of heat loss and gain. This inefficiency can lead to an undesirable increase in energy bills as the home will become warmer in summer and cooler in winter. To combat this, metal roofing reflects radiant sun heat, reducing heat gain. Metal roofs are easy to pair with insulation material, ensuring the home is kept warm in winter and energy bills to a minimum.
- Sustainability. Metal roofing is considered one of the most eco-friendly and sustainable roofing materials. It has up to 30-60 percent recycled material and can be fully recycled. It can also be installed above an existing metal roof, avoiding the need to dispose of the latter.
Types of Metal Roofing
If you are building a home with a new roof, repairing a metal roof, or replacing your entire roof, you can consider various metal roofs.
Standing Seam Metal Roof
Standing seam metal roofs solves many problems other types of metal roofing pose. Its raised seams make it less likely to leak or be blown away in high winds. The increased rigidity reduces the risk of water damage caused by expansion and contraction.
Also, its striations help the roof last longer and require less maintenance, which saves money in the long run. You should note that it’s advised to tear off your existing roof if installing standing seam metal roofs.
Flat Seam Metal Roof
When you’re looking for a cost-effective option for protecting your home with a metal roof, flat-seam metal panels are an ideal choice. These panels are the most budget-friendly. With a flat-seam metal roof, you get the protection you need for an affordable price.
Metal Shake Roof
If you’re considering a metal roofing project and want the classic appearance of wood with the durability of metal, then metal shakes are the answer. This type of metal roofing is tiles designed to look like wood.
Common Metal Roofing Repairs
Factors out of your control, including storm damage or hail damage, can result in you needing a new metal roof or repairs on your old roof. Listed are some events that call for a metal roofing repair.
Corrosion
Metal roofing is favored because of its resistance to deterioration, but sometimes corrosion happens. This occurs if the finished roof is poorly coated and water gets trapped between the metal panels and insulation layer. Saltwater corrosion is also possible, depending on where you live.
Leaking
Severe weather, including torrential downpours, hurricanes, and rapid freezes and thaws, can cause leaks in metal roofs. Leaks may also be caused by aging.
Additionally, if the roof installed was done improperly, leaking can occur. Therefore, ridge caps must be properly seated to stop moisture from seeping under the sheet metal.
Installation Errors
If you’ve had your metal roof installed and it was done poorly, that opens the doors for problems. To avoid these issues, it is essential to choose qualified roofing services.
Roofing companies should have a good reputation and be able to provide references for past successful installations and customer satisfaction testimonials. You should get the best quality for your money and have your metal roof installed correctly.
Scratching and Scuffing
Scratches and scuffs of sheet metal can occur at anytime and should be reported to your contractor immediately.
Replacing a panel with a deep scratch that penetrates the material is critical to maintaining the roof’s integrity and longevity. Minor scratches and scuffs can often be repaired with paint or a touch-up pen.
The Bottom Line
Metal is one of the best options for roofing material. However, as durable, efficient, and sustainable as it is, issues may arise. Standard metal roofing repairs are occasionally needed to keep your roof in optimal shape.
FAQs about Common Metal Roofing Repairs
How do you repair a sheet metal roof?
Depending on the size of the repair, you may be able to cut out and replace the damaged area of metal roofing, or you may need to use a sealant such as roofing mastic or metal roof patch to repair the defect.
If the roof is badly damaged and beyond repair, it may be necessary to contact a local company that offers metal roofing services to replace the entire section or roof.
What is the biggest problem with metal roofs?
Metal is one of the best roofing options. However, it has its drawbacks. Common problems with metal roofing are the noise factor during rain or hailstorms and the installation cost.
Metal roofs tend to be more expensive than other roofing materials, and they are also vulnerable to denting and corrosion.
What is the best way to seal a leaking metal roof?
A silicone sealant is an ideal choice for sealing a leaking metal roof. It offers strong adhesion to metal and other building materials and provides reliable protection against UV radiation and moisture.
How do you repair a rusted metal roof?
Metal is prone to rust, but there are roofing solutions to deal with it. In the event of rust, if you haven’t treated it before, it has caused visible damage, such as cracks or holes; you can repair it by applying urethane roofing cement.
After washing the rusted area with water and detergent and scrubbing away surface rust with a wire brush, you can repair cracks and holes with the urethane sealant and metal roof mesh.
After coating all the areas that need repair, you can apply metal roofing paint to the sites you’ve treated.