Want To Extend Your Metal Roof Lifespan? Consider These Tips

If you have a metal roof, you can expect it to last and provide protection from environmental elements for many years. These roofs provide a great return on investment because they are one of the most durable roof solutions you can find today. Besides, they are energy efficient, resilient, stylish, and customizable, and increase a property's resale value.

As with all roofing materials, you have to prioritize maintenance to extend the lifespan of your metal roof. Here are some tips to get you started.

1. Trim Tree Branches

The wind often feels great when it's hot, but once it blows, tree branches hanging over the metal roof can damage the top. The constant rubbing scratches the structure and leaves cuts, dents, and other flaws. If you fail to fix the damages fast, the shingles or panels can wear down, making it difficult to protect the building properly.

To avert roof destruction, you should regularly trim the bushes and tree limbs. Besides preventing roof scratches, this measure ensures that overhanging limbs don't break off and damage the metal roof.

2. Minimize Foot Traffic

Unless you are a qualified roofing contractor, you shouldn't walk on the roof for any reason. This is recommended both for your safety and for damage control. While a few steps may not cause significant damage initially, you may notice some dents and cracks over time.

If you'd like the metal roof to last long, don't climb up and step on the roof yourself. Whenever you need to care for the roof surface or climb on top, assign the work to professionals. They will use the right equipment and techniques to access the roof if they need to clean the roof or perform some repair work.

3. Inspect the Metal Roof

Metal roof inspection is an ideal way to keep the roof in great shape. The inspection identifies any possible damages so you can take action while they are still fixable.

Use a sturdy ladder to survey the roof. Some damages to check for include signs of corrosion, loose or damaged flashing, metal trim, and broken seals. A roofing contractor can help you fix these damages immediately when you seek the service. But if you wait for long, the issues may grow in size, causing damages and expensive repairs.

4. Remove Debris 

Another effective and easy way to extend the life of your metal roof is to maintain cleanliness. It's normal for leaves, dirt, and other debris to accumulate on the roof over time, which can damage the structure.

For instance, the accumulation of rubbish on the roof causes moisture retention, which damages the surface finish and leads to corrosion. The retained moisture may also seep into the underlayment and cause interior damage if the metal roof has some tiny openings. When you remove all the debris and dirt from the roof, it may last longer.

5. Examine the Gutters

The gutter system is part of the metal roof structure, so you have to maintain it to extend the life of the roof. It helps drain water away from the roof to avert water damage and accumulation of humidity.

If the gutters are rusty, blocked, or wrongly installed, they may cause severe flooding. Therefore, examine the gutters for signs of damage and clean them regularly before it rains to ensure they can drain water efficiently.

When you follow these tips, you will keep your metal roof in great shape for longer. But proper installation also determines how long the metal roofing can last, so assign the task to seasoned roofing contractors. Here at All Coast Roofing, we can help you pick the best metal roof and offer quality installation and maintenance services. Contact us today for more details.