Key Takeaways:
- Metal roofs can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance and care.
- Regular inspections are essential for detecting any signs of damage or wear and tear, including rusting, fading, cracking, and chalking.
- It is crucial to address any issues quickly and have them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
- Professional assistance may be needed if the roof needs repairs, as a qualified contractor should only perform specific procedures.
- Keeping your metal roof clean and debris-free can help prolong its life.
- JB Commercial Roofing LLC offers commercial roofing services to customers in Louisville, KY, and the surrounding areas.
Metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular among business owners and homeowners. They are known for their durability, longevity, and resistance to bad weather conditions. However, even the strongest metal roofs can experience damage over time. JB Commercial Roofing LLC will discuss some of the most common warning signs that your metal roof is damaged. If you notice any of these signs, call a roofing contractor immediately!
Signs of Metal Roof Damage In Industrial Warehouses
1. Leaks
One of the most common signs of metal roof damage is leaks. If you notice water stains on your ceiling or walls, it could indicate that your metal roof is leaking. Leaks can occur for various reasons, including loose fasteners, holes, or cracks in the roofing panels. If left unrepaired, leaks can cause severe damage to your warehouse and may even lead to collapse.
2. Rust
Another common sign of metal roof damage is rust. Rust can form on metal roofs when the steel is exposed to moisture and oxygen. Rust can cause the top to weaken and eventually fail. If you notice rust on your metal roof, it’s essential to have it repaired as soon as possible.
3. Buckling
Buckling occurs when the roofing panels need to be adequately secured and begin to lift. It can cause the panels to warp and eventually fail. Buckling is often caused by high winds or heavy snowfall. If you notice buckling on your metal roof, it’s essential to have it repaired as soon as possible.
4. Loose Fasteners
Fasteners can become loose over time due to vibration or thermal expansion and contraction. If left unrepaired, loose fasteners can cause the roofing panels to become detached from the building, leading to severe damage or even collapse.
5. Holes
Holes can occur due to corrosion, physical damage, or even insects nesting inside the roofing panels. If left unrepaired, holes can cause water to enter the building, leading to severe damage or even collapse.
6. Cracks
Cracks form in metal roofs over time due to corrosion, physical damage, or thermal expansion and contraction. If left unrepaired, cracks can allow water to enter the building, leading to severe damage or even collapse.
7. Sagging
Sagging is another common sign of metal roof damage. It occurs when the metal roof is not supported correctly and begins to sag under its weight. Sagging can cause the metal roof to collapse, which can be extremely dangerous.
8. Blistering
Blistering occurs when the metal roof is exposed to extreme heat or damaged. |It can cause the metal roof to blister, eventually leading to holes in the ceiling.
9. Flaking
Flaking occurs when the paint on the metal roof begins to flake off due to exposure to weather or other elements. It can eventually lead to rusting and corrosion of the metal roof.
10. Dents
Dents can occur when hail or other objects fall on the metal roof and dent it. Dents can also occur when the metal roof is improperly installed, becomes loose, and moves around, causing dents.
11. Fading
Fading occurs when the paint on the metal panel fades or changes color due to exposure to UV rays or other elements. If you notice any fading on your metal roof, it’s essential to have it repainted as soon as possible, as it can lead to further damage.
12. Chalking
Chalking occurs when the paint on the metal panel starts to powder or flake off due to exposure to UV rays or other elements. If you notice any chalking on your metal roof, it’s essential to have it repainted as soon as possible, as it can lead to further damage.
Also, read our blog on a deteriorating metal roofing system.
Tips to Repair and Maintain Commercial Metal Roofs
1. Inspect Your Roof Regularly
Inspecting your roof regularly, at least once a year, is essential. You should look for any signs of damage, such as rust, leaks, or missing fasteners. If you notice any damage, it must be repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
2. Keep Your Roof Clean
It’s also essential to keep your roof clean. It can be done by power washing it regularly. Power washing will remove any dirt, debris, or moss accumulated on the top. It’s essential to use a low-pressure setting when power washing to avoid damaging the roof.
3. Repair Any Damage Immediately
If you notice any roof damage, it must be repaired promptly. Ignoring damage will only worsen and lead to more expensive repairs.
4. Replace Missing Fasteners
If you notice any missing fasteners, it’s crucial to replace them as soon as possible. Pins keep the metal panels of your roof attached to the underlying structure. Without them, your roof will be more susceptible to wind damage and leaks.
5. Seal Any Gaps or Seams
It’s also essential to seal any gaps or seams that you may find in your roof. Cracks and seams can allow water to enter your building, leading to mold and mildew growth. Sealing these openings will help prevent water from entering and improve your structure’s energy efficiency.
6. Apply a New Coat of Paint
Applying a new coat of paint is also an excellent way to protect your metal roof from the elements. Paint helps to protect the metal from rusting and provides a barrier against UV rays. When choosing a paint for your metal roof, choose one specifically designed for metal roofs.
7. Use Snow Guards during Winter
If you live in an area that gets snowfall during winter, it’s crucial to use snow guards on your metal roof. Snow guards help prevent large chunks of snow and ice from sliding off the top and onto the ground below. It can help to prevent injuries and property damage caused by falling snow and ice.
Related: A roof inspection checklist.
Need Commercial Roofing Services in Louisville, KY?
Do you need a reliable commercial roofing contractor in Louisville, KY? JB Commercial Roofing LLC offers durable and weatherproof acrylic roof coating systems with a 20-year warranty. As a Conklin Preferred Contractor, we use eco-friendly solutions to increase your property’s value. Contact us today for a free estimate!
