Three Essential Guidelines for Repairing Your Metal Roof

If your metal roof is damaged, don't assume you have to replace the whole roof. In general, metal roofing structures are durable and resilient, and they are built to withstand adverse conditions with minimal degradation. Therefore, the damage to a relatively new metal roof is rarely extensive. That being said, roof repairs shouldn't be neglected. Here are some practical guidelines on repairing the common problems associated with metal roofs. 

Check for Loose Nails

If your roof is leaking or the metal panels are dislodged, you should inspect the structure for loose nails. If the fasteners are absent or poorly secured, you will notice the roofing shifts during high winds and storms. Moreover, you might hear noises coming from the damaged roof.

Fortunately, this issue can be resolved quite quickly. You will need to determine the position of the faulty nails and remove them. You can reinstall the same nails, but it is better to purchase and hammer in new nails for optimal performance.  

Remove Rust Patches

Metal roofs, particularly steel roofing, are vulnerable to corrosion when exposed to a lot of moisture and harsh climatic conditions. Steel roofs are often galvanised or otherwise treated to prevent the interaction of the iron in the structure with air. However, the protective coating can be compromised. As a result, some rust patches might occur on your roof.

If this is the case, you should plan for the removal of the rust material. Ideally, you should use some steel wool or a brush to scrub off the corroded metal. Once the surface is clean, apply a compatible primer to the damaged area. Then, look for an appropriate spray paint to cover the repaired area.

Repair Leaks

If there is a hole or tear in the metal roofing, you should seal it up to prevent water damage in your house. You should remember that the continued flow of water through the roof will cause deterioration of the building and the growth of harmful mould.

There are different ways in which you can seal up the leak. It's easiest to use urethane roof cement. This material can be purchased from hardware stores and applied with ease using a putty knife. Alternatively, you can install a waterproof flashing membrane over the leaking area for ideal protection.

Roofing repair work can be challenging. Therefore, if you notice damage to your metal structure, you should consult an expert for restoration.

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