One of the many notable characteristics of metal roofs is their longevity. In the right conditions, a metal roof has an expected lifespan of up to 70 years.
As nice as this sounds, the keywords there are “right conditions.” Salty air, high humidity, and other environmental factors can still do a number on your metal roof. Plus, all roofs experience some amount of wear and tear.
Of course, some signs of roof deterioration are worse than others. Here are five things that are serious enough to warrant a roof replacement.
1. Worn Paint
Most metal roofs feature waterproof coating. This is a big help with rain and humidity, but it makes your roof more susceptible to falling debris. Due to fluctuating temperatures, the paint can also become worn out.
If the paint seems faded, chipped, or thinned, it’s susceptible to rust. The more extensive the paint damage is, the less protection it can offer your roof. At a certain point, it becomes less costly to replace the roof itself.
2. Storm Damage
Storm damage is particularly common in tropical areas. Needless to say, if something hits your roof in a storm, it could cause structural damage. Oftentimes, even small incidents can lead to a roof replacement.
This is one reason why you should always inspect your roof after heavy rain and storms. If you see any debris, make sure to remove it. If there are dents or scratches, you may be able to fix them with roof repair products.
3. Tears and Punctures
Have you ever gone up to your metal roof? If so, you know that this type of roofing is sturdy enough that you can walk on it. That said, the weight you put on the panels can sometimes create a tear or puncture.
You can fix tears with caulking, but this is often a temporary measure. If your roof has many tears and punctures, its structural integrity may be in doubt. Consider replacing the affected panels or the entire roof.
4. Corrosion
Do your roof materials contain more than one kind of metal? If so, the contact between these metals may cause a corrosion reaction. Corrosion can then eat through your materials and cause damage.
If you notice patches of corrosion on your roof, have professionals inspect them. If the damage isn’t severe, you could get away with simple repairs. Otherwise, you’ll need to contact a roof replacement company.
5. Water Leaks
Water leaks can be an indicator of various problems with your roof. For example, your roof panels may warp due to rust damage. Leaks may also be caused by loose fasteners, failed flashing, missing sealant, and so on.
Smaller leaks may seem like a minor inconvenience, but they can quickly turn into a serious issue. If you don’t address it on time, you may end up having to replace the entire roof.
Scheduling a Roof Replacement
As a homeowner, you have to know when to replace your metal roof. If you wait too long, you could end up facing a host of additional problems. The five signs above are all a potential cause for concern.
Not sure which roof replacement service is worth your time? If you live in the Chicago area, we can take care of all your roof replacement needs! Contact us here, and we’ll get back to you soon.
