A metal roof, while being praised for its strength and durability, is still vulnerable to all kinds of damages when exposed to harsh elements. This roofing system is built to last for decades. However, it is still necessary to be prepared as you can never know when disaster will strike.
A commercial building with metal roofs needs regular maintenance. If you notice any damage or leak, these issues need to be addressed right away before they snowball into bigger problems, which will require costly repairs.
The Problems You May Encounter With A Metal Roofing System
Leaks are common in metal roofs and you can address this roofing issue easily enough by obtaining a bit of knowledge and expertise. It is essential that you have a basic understanding of repairing metal roof leaks and you know how to hire a roofing contractor to deal with more complicated leaks.
In the United States, a large fraction of commercial buildings are built with a metal roof system. If problems associated with the roofing system arise, you need to know how to deal with them. This is why obtaining basic learning about roof repairs is a must.
Metal roofs are a common roofing system which you can usually find in commercial shopping centers. With their unique details, you need an expert to deal with leaks.
Causes of metal roof leaks
There are many reasons your metal roof can leak – and general wear and tear is the most common cause. Some components like the screws or washers might already be deteriorating. If you live in an area prone to disasters, your metal roof will not be exempted from the harsh conditions brought about by tornado, hurricane, or hailstorm. Even design or installation mistakes can have a serious impact on your roof.
Your insurance policy usually covers these issues. You will be assisted with repairing, replacing or restoring your roofing system. You need to make sure that you hire a trusted roofing contractor for the problem to be properly addressed.
Common metal roofing problems
Leaks may be a common issue when you have a metal roofing system, but there are other problems that you will encounter like roof oxidation, panel damage, fastener blackout, and many others. Be sure to protect your investment by documenting your roof’s condition when you first bought the property or the roof is first installed. You also need to keep your records updated if maintenance or repairs have taken place. With record keeping, making insurance claims will be a lot easier.
The effects of weather on your metal roofing system
Natural disasters cannot be avoided. It can strike anytime and you need to be well-prepared to minimize damage to your roofing system. If you are located in areas that are prone to snowstorms, hurricanes, and tornadoes, you need to make sure that you choose the correct type of metal roof.
Different types of metal roofing systems
There are two different metal roofing options to consider: structural and architectural. While the two are almost identical when it comes features, you can tell the difference by the structural roof deck. Metal roofing systems are suitable for properties with a low slope or steep slope. Before the installation process takes place, you have to be aware of the type of installation you have as you will need this information for future repairs.
You should also understand the basics of hydrokinetic or hydrostatic roofing system. You will encounter them when you are working with contractors or an insurance company during repairs or replacements.
Architectural metal roofing systems
This type of roofing system is built with a separate roof deck, which supports the roof’s metal panels. You can commonly find these roofing systems in both residential and commercial buildings. They are also installed in shopping centers where the supporting deck is installed separately.
Structural metal roofing system
This roof system does not need support from a structural rooftop deck. It uses panels for the structure’s roof and waterproofing system. You can find structural roofing systems in pre-engineered buildings. In installing them, clips are attached to the panels through the building’s horizontal purlins. These components are also combined with batten insulation before installing the metal panels.
Understanding the slope of the roof
Once you understand the difference between architectural and structural roofing design, you also need to be aware of the importance of the slope of the roof. Metal roofing installation can either be with a low slope or a steep slope. As a property owner, you need to understand the effects on the installation on the insurance, preparations and the type of repairs. A low sloped roof can have an impact on your insurance options and repair capabilities.
Hydrokinetic roofing design
This roofing system allows water to shed quickly or run off easily. It is commonly used in roofing applications with a steep slope. Whether you have commercial or residential properties. hydrokinetic roofing design works well. Hydrokinetic roofs are intended for builds that are unable to retain water.
Since you cannot gain complete control of the property you purchase, it is essential to note the design, structural integrity, and style of your roof. When in doubt of the environment, location or climate, you need to make sure that you consult a contractor, or even a public adjuster, in advance so you will know the type of metal roofing that suits your needs.
Hydrostatic roofing design
This roofing system is usually specifically designed for pre-engineered metal buildings. There are also cases when they are used in residential buildings. The purpose of hydrostatic roofing design is to retain water as much as possible without the risk of leaking. However, as compared to hydrokinetic roofing design, hydrostatic is more expensive because it consists of copper metal and tin. It also has soldered flat seams.
Metal roofing restoration versus metal roofing repair
A damaged roofing system needs immediate repair, replacement or restoration. The decision you are going to make will depend on your roof’s condition and the extent of the damage. These are the three options you might want to consider:
Repair
The best thing about metal roofing systems is that you have the option to repair it if the damage is not severe. The fact that it can last for decades, makes metal roofs durable. Structural issues like leaks need to be addressed to prevent bigger problems from occurring. By applying roof sealant, you will be able to prevent leaks.
However, there are instances when small problems turn into bigger issues once they are not properly addressed by a professional roofing contractor. If repairs cannot fix the issue, especially if it has to do with oxidation or loose fasteners, replacement is a good idea.
Restore
Even the highest quality metal roof can still experience general wear and tear, especially if you have it for years. Your metal roof can become vulnerable to leaks and there can be other damages that you might not be aware of. It is important that you keep an eye on the condition of your roof. By keeping a record of your roofs’ current state will help you detect leaks and other types of flaws that might exist.
Restoration involves repairing damaged spots, replacing fasteners, applying urethane coating, and other steps that will restore your metal roof to its best condition.
Replace
Metal roofing systems need to be replaced due to damage or age. Natural disasters cannot be avoided and they can seriously impact your roofing system. When replacing your roof, there are options you need to take into consideration. The type of roof you are going to purchase will depend on your needs. Do you need roofs that can repel or retain moisture? Did your previous roof have low or steep sloped? There are other considerations that are deemed essential to installing or replacing a new roof that you have to factor in.
Essential things to consider
You can have an informed buying decision once you keep these metal roof characteristics in mind. Your metal roofing is part of your investment. It is imperative that you document everything as often as possible so you will not have a hard time working with an insurance company in the future.