Each metal roofing product is designed to stand up to certain conditions and each has a life expectancy that will vary depending on the metal it is made of, the quality of installation, and what type of environment surrounds it.
Most metal roofs last 8-15 years in residential applications and commercial metal roofs can often last for decades. With maintenance and proper care, they can last even longer than their anticipated lifespan.
How do you make the most of metal roofing last as long as possible? Here are 5 ways to make the most out of your metal roof:
1) Use The Right Underlayment
Although metal roofs are strong when compared with other types of residential roofing materials, they’re not impune to natural elements such as wind, rain, hail, and heat. That’s why they require an underlayment or other type of protective barrier between metal roofing panels and the elements.
2) High-Quality Plywood Subdeck Or Top Chord Base
The roofing system needs a strong foundation in order to make it last as long as possible and that means you should choose a metal system that has a high-quality subdeck of top chord base.
For metal roofing to last as long as possible, you need to make sure the panels are connected directly to either a high-quality plywood subdeck or metal top chord.
If metal is attached directly to an underlayment on your roof, it will only sit on top of the surface and not be fastened tightly against it. This allows wind and water to pass between the metal’s underside and the underlayment, increasing the chances that moisture can seep into metal roofs causing rusting and rot.
3) Regularly Cleaning
Many metal roofs are painted with a UV coating to protect the metal from rusting but painting metal roofs are not always effective against staining or preventing insects. Over time, metal roofs may become stained or have an unsightly black splotch caused by an old bird’s nest that was never completely cleaned off.
To make it last longer, you should wash them at least once per year to remove dirt and other natural elements that can cause staining over time. You can also apply a rust preventative sealant each year after washing your metal roof which will help keep metals clean longer while preventing rusting, metal stains, and bugs.
4) Make Sure Your Roofer Is Experienced And Insured For Proper Installation
You should make sure that your roof system is installed by a qualified professional who has experience with metal systems. The metal panels should be connected correctly to the subdeck or top chord base using corrosion-resistant fasteners in order to keep water out of metal roofs. Along with installing it properly, you should also make sure your installer carries the proper insurance coverage because metal roofs are expensive and any damage caused during installation can result in additional expenses for you down the road.
5) Be Careful With Roof Repair
While they are stronger than other types of residential roofing, metal roofs can still be damaged during installation or repair. A repair professional should only need to repair the roof in one location because it is so durable and can withstand incredible pressure without becoming compromised. When metal is repaired more than once, the metal is weakened and compromised making it easier for water to pass through causing rusting and rot on metal roof panels.
