Many homeowners prefer to install metal roofs over other materials because they're energy-efficient, fire-resistant, and can last decades. But, like any other roofing material, they require regular maintenance to remain in great shape. That's why it's advisable to schedule a yearly roof inspection from an experienced metal roofing contractor. In most cases, the expert will advise that you pay attention to the following critical issues to ensure longevity.
Clear Dirt Build-Up On Your Roof
If you have trees near your house, your roof will accumulate a lot of debris within a short time. Given this, if you take a long time before clearing such debris, it will cause damage to your roof. So, if an expert notices leaves and branches sitting on the surface of your roof, use a soft bristle brush to clear them. Another alternative is to use a hose to spray water over the roof. However, do this while avoiding shooting water underneath the roofing material, as this can lead to moisture problems in your home.
Avoid Frequent Walks On the Roof
You should avoid walking on your metal if it's not necessary. More so, if you have to, ensure you're familiar with the manufacturer's recommendation for walking on the roof. You should know that following such guidelines will prevent unexpected damage to your roof because you'll know where to step. If you have equipment or other installations on your roof, ask your roofer to install a footpath to guarantee roof protection.
Ensure That Your Gutters Are Clean
Debris accumulation in your gutter can cause roof problems if you don't address it promptly. Remember that metal roofs should shed water from the rain and then dry out. So, if you have wet dirt and leaves in your gutter, they can stop the roof edge from drying after it rains. In turn, this leads to corrosion that can shorten your roof's lifespan. Clogs in the gutter can also cause damage to the fascia and, eventually, water leaks in your home. So, if your home has a heavy leaf load, consider installing leaf guards or cleaning the leaves every month.
Perform Inspection After A Storm
It's advisable to regularly inspect your roof to prevent repairable problems. More so, this should happen after inclement weather conditions such as a hailstorm or hurricane. For instance, if you experience a snowstorm, ensure you check that the flashing and gutters aren't damaged. Also, after a storm, inspect whether there's damage to your roof from fallen branches.
Metal roof maintenance is critical in ensuring that your roof lasts for a long time. That's why it's crucial to pay close attention to the few ideas shared in this guide.
Contact a metal roofing service to learn more.
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