Metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular due to their durability and longevity. While a metal roof can last for decades with little to no maintenance, it’s important to follow a few simple tips to keep it in good condition. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most important metal roof maintenance tips for homeowners.
- Clean the Gutters Thoroughly
One of the best ways to ensure your metal roof lasts is by keeping the gutters clean. If the gutters aren’t cleaned regularly, they can fill up with leaves, sticks, and other debris. This can cause water to back up underneath the shingles and cause them to rot.
If you have a metal roof, you should clean the gutters at least twice a year. You may need to clean them more often if you live in an area with a lot of trees.
- Inspect the Roof Regularly
You should also inspect the roof regularly for any signs of damage. Look for cracked, missing, or loose shingles. If you see any damage, you should have it repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
It’s also a good idea to have your roof inspected by a professional at least once a year. They’ll be able to spot any problems that you might miss.
- Trim Trees Near the House
If you have trees near your house, you should trim them back to prevent them from damaging the roof. Fallen branches can cause serious damage to the shingles.
You should also remove any dead branches that are still attached to the tree. These can fall and damage the roof as well.
- Clear Waterways
If there is anything blocking the water from draining off of your roof, it could cause damage to your roof. It’s important to clear any debris or objects that could be causing this issue, to prevent any further damage.
Safety Tips for Maintaining a Metal Roof
A roof inspection by a professional can save you from an expensive repair or replacement. If you are uncomfortable scaling your ladder or walking on your roof, you should not attempt a roof inspection and take proper precautions to prevent serious injury or, worse, death. Your safety is of the utmost importance, so it’s better to call a roofing professional you can trust to handle the job.
Be sure to follow this safety checklist when performing any kind of maintenance on a metal roof, especially a standing seam metal roof. Review and follow the safety requirements to ensure a safe job.
Use OSHA-approved fall protection and wear shoes with soft soles to avoid leaving marks on a metal roof.
To avoid damage, only walk on the flat areas of the metal roof and stay close to supports. Avoid walking on the rake flashings, gutters, skylights, or any fiberglass panels.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you’re a homeowner with a metal roof, it’s important to be aware of the special maintenance requirements that come with this type of roofing. These tips will help you keep your roof in good condition, so you can enjoy its many benefits for years to come.
Cardinal Roof is one of the best roofing contractors in Birmingham, AL. We offer residential and commercial services in Alabama and Middle Tennessee. Get in touch with us.