One of the best reasons to consider a metal roof is that they require very little maintenance. Like any roof, you should always avoid allowing debris to build-up on top and trim back any overhanging tree branches. While that is probably the biggest maintenance rule to follow, here are a few more tips to make sure you get the most life out of your metal roof.
DO clean the gutters: Gutters are an important part of your roofing system that helps to properly shed water away from your home. Clogged gutters will cause water to back up and potentially damage your roof’s foundation. In the winter, cold temperatures may also cause water to freeze and expand in small spaces under the metal, damaging your roof.
DO keep an eye out: Not only can excess debris create scratches on your roof, but it could also break down the metal coating more quickly. Exposed metal on your roof can cause ugly rust stains, which can negatively affect your home’s curb appeal. Fall and spring are often opportune times to take a look at your roof to make it is in good shape. In addition to debris, be on the lookout for any stains, scratches, dents, and loose fasteners, or seam separation. The sooner you catch any problems, the easier and less expensive it will be to fix!
DO get your roof inspected: As your roof gets older, always remember to get it inspected! An annual inspection will suffice to make sure any small repairs are fixed. This will ensure a long life for your roof and will also keep your roofing budget to a minimum; it’s a lot cheaper to repair an issue while it is small than it is to replace a roof because your problem got too big. You should also consider an inspection after major storms or when there are extreme weather conditions.
DON’T walk on your roof: For obvious safety reasons, you should never walk on your roof if you don’t have to. When it comes to metal roofs, a trained professional will know how to do so without bending or puncturing any part of the roof. Any small dent can be an eyesore, so it’s important to know where to step! Metal roofs can also be more slippery than your average asphalt roof, even when it’s dry. This makes it even more dangerous to walk on and it’s best to avoid going on your roof when you can.
DON’T pressure wash: Maintaining a metal roof may include a light cleaning, but NEVER pressure wash your roof! With asphalt roofs, pressure washing will wash away the granules that give shingles their longevity. Although metal roofs don’t have granules, pressure washing can still damage their metal coating. You should also avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents that may break down the paint and reduce the lifespan of your roof.
DON’T wait to get repairs: If you see something wrong with your roof, do not wait to get it fixed. Often, the longer you wait, the bigger a problem it becomes, which will end up only costing you more money. It’s possible that what could have been a small repair turns into an entire roof replacement!
IBEX Roof is here to be your long-term roofing team. We’re here for more than just emergencies and roof replacements; we do everything we can to make sure your roof lasts as long as possible! Our team uses a thorough checklist for all roof evaluations to make sure nothing is missed. If we see any underlying problems with your roof, we will provide you with options that fit both your needs and budget. To schedule a roofing inspection today, give our friendly office a call at (360) 218-3108.
