Metal roofs are durable, recyclable, lightweight, and energy-efficient. However, metal roofs suffer damage just like other roofing materials. Here are things that usually damage metal roofs.
1. Falling Debris
Falling debris can puncture, tear, or dent metal roofs. For one, the damages mar your roof's curb appeal. Secondly, the damage allows water to penetrate the roof and damage internal roof structures or even reach your house's interior.
Roof debris comes from different sources. For example, trees or tree branches around the house can break and crash on the roof. Rooftop installations, like solar panels or satellite dishes, can detach and crash on the metal surface. Even wind can carry debris and dump it on your roof.
2. Prolonged Water Exposure
Any water on the roof should flow off as soon as possible. Prolonged water increases the risk of corrosion, which weakens metal and increases leakage risk. Water might stay on your roof if:
- Something blocks the drainage channels
- The roof experiences ice damming
- Debris accumulates on the roof and retains moisture
- Structures and trees around the house shade the roof
- Something dents the roof and leads to water ponding
Regular roof maintenance, especially during high precipitation seasons, prevents such damage.
3. Weather Disasters
Weather is a threat to all roofing types, including metal roofs. The damage can be direct or indirect. For example, direct damage occurs if the wind lifts or tears a roof section or hailstones dent or puncture the metal.
Indirect damage occurs when a storm hurls things on the roof, such as tree branches. Unfortunately, you can't do much about weather damage except strengthen the roof structures and use weather-resistant materials to resist damage severity in a disaster.
4. Installation or Repair Mistakes
Installation or repair mistakes can cause immediate damages or long-term problems. Here are some common mistakes:
- Using dissimilar metals on the roof that react and corrode
- Improper fastening that leaves the roof susceptible to damage, such as wind uplift
- Improper fastening leaves holes that admit water into the roof
- Using inadequate or wrong materials, such as flashing, that do not protect the roof from water penetration
These mistakes are more common during DIY installation or repairs than professional services.
You can prevent many of the above threats to your metal roof, so inspect and maintain your roof regularly. However, wear and tear and unavoidable disasters can still damage the roof. Contact a roofing contractor for help if that happens.
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