While metal roofs are known for their strength and durability, there is a time when you will need to replace them. Compared to other roofing materials, metal roofs can last many years and can even be used up to about 70 years with good maintenance. But you need to know how to identify the signs of wear and tear. Some things can be repaired but after a certain age, you will need to replace the roof to maintain its integrity and safety.
The first thing you should consider is the age of the roof
Metal roofs can last about 40 years and with good maintenance go up to about 70 years. But there are environmental factors that can affect the condition of the roof as well. In addition to the weather conditions in your area, the quality of workmanship and frequency of maintenance also matters when it comes to the durability of the roof. If the expected lifespan of the roof has been reached, it is time to inspect the roof and check whether you need to replace it. There are also certain signs that point towards the need for residential or commercial metal roof replacement and a major sign is water damage. When there are water leaks, it is a clear sign that your roof is compromised. You can spot water damage in the form of water stains on the walls and ceilings.
There are many reasons
Why a water leak occurs such as the flashing being damaged, sealant deteriorating and screws or fasteners becoming loose. Some causes for water leaks can be repaired but if the leak occurs repeatedly or if the damage to the roof is extensive, you will need to replace it. Ignoring these issues can lead to more water damage. And this can contribute to the growth of mould and affect the structural integrity of the roof creating an unsafe living environment. While there is a high resistance in metal roofs to corrosion and rust, you may still see corrosion when the roof is installed in an area with harsh weather or if it has not been maintained properly.
It is important
To carry out routine inspections of the roof so that you can check whether there is any corrosion or rust on the roof. This generally occurs when the protective coating of the roof is compromised. But when a large part of the roof is corroded, you will need to replace it as this will affect its structural integrity. If you notice there are missing or loose panels on the roof in a routine inspection, this can cause water to seep in contributing to water damage.
Having loose roofing panels is also a safety risk. If there are a lot of loose or missing panels, it is best to replace it entirely to ensure the stability of the roof. Sometimes you will note that there is a noticeable change in colour of the metal roof. This will mean that the protective coating on the roof panels has deteriorated which can leave the roof open for corrosion. And if this discolouration is widespread, you will need to replace the roof in order to protect the underlying structure.
