Metal Roofing Maintenance Tips for Indianapolis Residents
Homeowners in the Circle City love metal roofs for several reasons. They are strong, look great, can last for many decades and are environmentally friendly. Even the best things need a bit of care. While metal roofing systems are highly resilient compared to some other roofing options, they are not completely maintenance-free. Over time, issues like rust, small dents, and gutter blockages can pop up, and you need to handle them right away to keep your roof in top shape.
Let us look at some of the proven ways to get the most out of your investment without having to spend big on roof repairs.
Perform regular inspections
For the sake of regular metal roof maintenance, you should ideally inspect your roof at least twice a year — once in the spring to check for any damage that may have happened during the winter, and once in the fall to prepare for the coming cold months.
Don’t limit a roof inspection to these times only. After a heavy storm or strong winds, take a moment to look over your roof. Check for any loose or missing fasteners, bent or warped panels, and any other signs of damage. It might seem like a small task, but catching issues early on can prevent bigger problems down the line.
Remember, safety first; if you are uncomfortable doing the inspection yourself, don’t hesitate to call our Indianapolis residential and commercial metal roofing professionals at Jackson Contracting.
Repair minor damages
Address any minor issues like dents or loose fasteners as soon as you notice them. These small problems might seem insignificant at first, but they can quickly escalate into much more expensive repairs if left unattended. For example, a loose fastener can create an entry point to let water damage inside your home. Similarly, dents can make the roof more prone to even more damage during bad weather.
At the same time, take a look whether there are any missing shingles in the roofing structure, damaged flashing materials or solar panels, or minor scratches or damage in the roofing materials, air vents, separating panel seams, or paint system, and ensure the roof repair and regular maintenance. Just make a note to have your residential roofing Indianapolis thoroughly inspected every year or after every big weather event, and it will go a long way in maintaining the health of your metal roof.
Clean the gutters
Your home’s gutters can collect a lot of leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris from nearby trees, which can result in water buildup. This stagnant water not only fosters mold and mildew, but also causes rust at the edges of your metal panels or leads to roof leaks or even corrosion of the entire metal roofing system.
To prevent this, make a routine to remove debris and clear out the gutters and gutter guards, especially during the fall when leaves are dropping, and after storms that can bring down branches and leaves. While you are at it, clean the downspouts too, so the water can flow smoothly away from your home. For a standing seam metal roof, copper roofs, or metal shingles roofs, you may seek assistance from a professional roofing contractor for thorough cleaning and maintenance.
Wash the roof
Every few months, it’s good to wash the roof gently using water and a soft-bristled brush to remove accumulated dirt, bird droppings, and other grime that can stick to the metal surface. This simple task will keep your roof looking shiny, and prevent the buildup of substances that can corrode the metal. That said, make sure to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials for cleaning, as they can strip the protective coating of the metal roof. Instead, just choose a mild soap if necessary.
Clear out the snow
During the harsh winters in Indianapolis, snow buildup on rooftops is quite a common sight. While metal roofs are certainly sturdy enough to handle the snow, allowing heavy snow to collect can put a substantial amount of pressure on the structure. This can result in dents or even more severe issues.
Be proactive in getting rid of the snow as soon as you can. Using a roof rake with a long handle can be a safe way to clear snow from the ground level. But if you don’t want to do it on your own or you think it’s too risky, you can call Jackson Contracting to take care of it.
Check for rust
Keep an eye out for any signs of rust that might be developing on your metal roof. Rust can weaken the structural integrity over the years. Check the roof for any rusty spots, especially in areas prone to water collection. If you do see any, clean the affected area thoroughly with a wire brush to remove the rust.
Once cleaned, apply a coat of rust-preventing primer to shield the metal from further corrosion. Follow this up with a top coat of paint that matches your roof color, to restore its original look. We highly recommend letting the professionals handle this part unless you have experience with roof work.
Seal the seams
The seams and joints in a metal roof are most vulnerable to water leaks. Check them regularly for any signs of wear and tear. If you notice any gaps or weakened areas, it’s time to get them resealed. Our roofing technicians can apply a high-quality sealant to the problematic areas to create a watertight barrier.
This one step alone can add several years to your roof and save you from expensive repairs in the future. Remember, a well-sealed roof is non-negotiable if you want it protected from harsh weather conditions, such as heavy rains and storms.
Strengthen Your Roof with Expert Guidance from Jackson Contracting
Here in Indianapolis, you can rely on Jackson Contracting to extend the lifespan of your metal roof with comprehensive maintenance services. We are fully licensed, bonded, and insured, so you know you are in trusted hands. We offer free estimates with detailed breakdowns whether you want new installation or roof replacement Indianapolis, so you will never have to deal with “hidden fees” once the work is done. There are no surprises, just honest work. Call us at 317-214-8124 or request a quote online.