Metal roofing can last a half-century or more; however, as durable as it may be, it will not last forever.
Eventually, homeowners will need to call a metal roofing contractor to replace their aged metal roof with a brand new one to protect their homes for the next fifty or sixty years.
When can homeowners know that it is time?
These are the signs that metal roofing services look for as indicators that it is either time to start thinking about replacing an old metal roof or signs that a metal roof has sustained damage that has shortened its lifespan.
1. Damage To The Panels
Metal roofing that sustains storm damage or damage when trees or other objects have fallen on it may need replacing in whole or in part depending on the severity of the damage.
Bent panels, those with significant dents, or those that are scratched and scuffed up are always more susceptible to corrosion and leaking, which can happen sooner than expected.
The best option is to hire a metal roof contractor to replace any damaged parts of the roof to maintain its lifespan before the entire installation is affected.
2. Worn Paint
The metal used for roofing comes with a durable coating of protective metal paint that is designed to last as long as the lifespan of the whole roofing installation.
Regardless of how long it takes, metal roofing services find that once that paint coating starts wearing off, the entire roof becomes compromised.
Protect the painted finish of metal roofing and prolong panel lifespan with sealants that a professional roofer can add.
3. Corrosion
When rust can be seen on a metal roof or there are areas of corrosion bubbling up under the paint or along seams, this is a clear sign that the metal is deteriorating and should be replaced.
Homeowners should communicate with a metal roofer at the first sign of corrosion to assess the degree of the damage.
Corroding metal becomes weaker, threatening the integrity of the whole roofing installation.
A professional roofer can determine whether the corrosion is isolated due to previous damage and can be repaired or if it is a widespread problem that requires a whole new roof.
4. Leaking
Occasional minor leaks are possible with any roof; however, metal roofing contractors warn that once it starts occurring with an older metal roof, it is a sign that replacement is necessary.
Chronic leaking of metal roofs is commonly caused by small gaps left between the panels after years of expansion and contraction.
Once an older roof reaches the point where it can no longer contract to remain watertight, it is time to replace it.
5. Wallowed Fasteners
Another age-related issue that signals that it is time to schedule a roofing replacement with a metal roofing service is fastener problems that put the whole roof at risk.
When the fastener holes begin to stretch or enlarge on an older metal roof installation due to repeated expansion and contraction or even corrosion, those fasteners can no longer hold the panels tightly in place.
This invites more corrosion, leaking, and the possibility of blow-offs if the wind can get under the panels.
Schedule Routine Inspections To Protect A Metal Roof
Even the best metal roofing will eventually wear out, whether due to old age or suffering damage that can shorten its lifespan.
An experienced metal roofing contractor can help homeowners ensure their metal roofs last as long as they should, then install a brand new one when the time is right.
An inspection by a certified metal roofing service is the best place to start!
