A leaking metal roof can cause significant damage to your building. Significant damage has already occurred when the roof leaks, so you must act quickly to reverse the damage.
It’s crucial that you pay attention to your metal roof, especially as it ages. This is also why you must hire the right metal roofing company in Denver, Colorado, for metal roof installation and repairs.
There could be a few reasons why your metal roof is leaking. Continue reading to find out how to detect (and repair) a leaking metal roof on your property.
Causes of a Leak with Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is typically made of copper, aluminum, zinc, or one of three steel variations and can come in various roofing systems, such as a standing seam metal roof.
Each metal roofing material and system has its advantages and disadvantages. However, metal roofing (in general) is one of the most long-lasting types of roofing.
Under ideal conditions, your metal roofing will not require much maintenance or even replacement for an extended period of time. With little to no maintenance, you can expect painted metal roofing to last between 40 and 70 years. It should also keep most of its initial reflectance and emittance at the same time.
If you have a leaking roof, it is critical to understand that the cause is not the type of metal used or the quality of the roofing material. In most cases, the installation is the source of the issue.
Let’s take a more in-depth look at the typical problems that lead to a leaking metal roof and how you can contribute to solving these issues by working with a reliable metal roofing company.
Metal Roofing Issue #1: Fastener Issues
Your roofing system’s metal paneling is brought together by one of two types of fasteners: clips or rubber washer fasteners. The way the clips fasten conceals the metal seam laps. Most of the time, they use a sealant like acrylic or urethane to bind all of the metal panels on the roof together.
Fasteners with rubber washers don’t need to be drilled and can be put as close together as every two square feet. Without using sealant or butyl tape, the metal paneling seam laps are kept flush by putting them close together.
These fasteners can come loose over time, leaving gaps or holes in the metal seam laps, allowing water in and paving the way for future problems.
Standing seam metal roofing systems, for example, are much better at maintaining a tighter seal.
Metal Roofing Issue #2: Missing or Poorly Secured Paneling
Roof panels that are improperly installed are prone to shifting or blowing away in high winds. This occurs when the fasteners are not properly secured. Metal roof panels must interlock correctly and securely, or else bits and pieces will be lost over time.
Most metal roofing can withstand winds up to 110 miles per hour when properly installed. If you’re losing metal roof pieces, likely, your installer didn’t do their job right.
Metal Roofing Issue #3: Missing Pieces
Pieces of your metal roof can fall off if you experience strong winds, storms, debris, or even deterioration. Even if you live in an area where this weather does not occur frequently, your metal roof will sustain wear and tear over time.
Water intrusion and leaks are possible when other structurally necessary parts are improperly installed. Foam closures, boots, downspouts, vent flashings, gutters, and edge metal are all included.
If your plumbing vents or HVAC curbs, for example, aren’t properly installed with the right materials and sealants, they’ll fall apart much more easily, letting the elements enter.
Metal Roofing Issue #4: Open Seam Laps
The laps of your seams on metal roofs should be secure and flush. If they aren’t, the seams will open up, resulting in gaps in your roof.
Open seam laps not only cause a leaking metal roof but can also cause structural damage, which will cost you a significant amount of money and time in the long run.
Metal Roofing Issue #5: Surface Rust
Rusting may occur sooner rather than later, depending on the finish you put on your metal roof. Rust is a natural reaction when metal is exposed to the elements. Fortunately, rust does not always indicate a leak.
However, if you observe rust on your metal roof, you must take immediate action. Rust will spread and cause damage if left unattended. The coating will start to peel, and the metal will begin to scale and eventually eat away at the metal, causing holes. All of this can cause serious structural damage.
It is critical to use a rust inhibitor to prevent the rust from spreading. It won’t completely stop the rust but it will buy you enough time to make the necessary repairs.
Metal Roofing Issue #6: Holes and Punctures
Rust is not the only factor that can result in holes in a metal roofing system. Frequently, holes and punctures are caused by foot traffic involving the dragging of heavy objects.
For instance, installing an HVAC unit can result in significant damage. Dragging an HVAC unit across a metal panel roof will cause scrapes, dents, and holes.
This can also result in deflection or the crimping or creasing of metal paneling. Water can pool in the deflection area when this occurs, causing rust. Never wait for a leak to inspect your metal roofing after it has been repaired.
Metal Roofing Issue #7: Water Movement
If your metal roof leaks, recent patch repairs may be to blame. The design of the roofing system should make it easy for water to run off, and if you have had any patchwork done to fix holes, that could be the problem.
If the materials used to repair your roof do not allow for proper elongation, water will pool and become stuck in that area. Always use flexible materials when repairing your roof. So they’ll be able to move with the rest of the metal panels.
Metal Roofing Issue #8: Materials That Are Incompatible
Metal roof systems necessitate the use of specific materials that prevent corrosion and oxidation. Using certain metals together can result in negative reactions such as corrosion and oxidation, which can affect the waterproof dependability of metal roofing.
Using the right material when installing flashing in vulnerable areas of your building is critical. The source of the leak is usually located in areas such as skylights, vents, and so on. If you use the wrong metals and sealants, they will do more damage to your metal roof than good.
When applying sealant, use an acrylic or urethane coating. These options will not only seal the space where leaks occur but also help prevent rust. Butyl tape can be used instead of sealant.
Metal Roof Leaking? Hire a Trusted Metal Roofing Company in Denver, Colorado
A leaking metal roof is a serious problem. It can cost you money in structural damage and repairs, and it may even necessitate the replacement of your metal roof. It is also the last thing you want to deal with, particularly if you run a business or rely on the space every day.
Trustworthy roofing contractors are essential when installing (or repairing) a metal roof. Contact a reputable metal roofing company in Denver, Colorado, if you are dealing with a leaking metal roof and need roof maintenance or replacement. Our skilled and knowledgeable team is ready to help you whenever you need it, any day of the week, any time of the day.
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