If you have a leaking metal roof, you’re not alone. Although roofing issues may not be the most exciting topic, it’s important to address leaks quickly. RoofCrafters has been helping homeowners in South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida with metal roof repairs for over 30 years. Based on our extensive experience, we’ve found that most metal roof leaks are caused by installation mistakes rather than issues with the metal itself.
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Here are the two main causes of metal roof leaks:
- Installation errors
- Metal deterioration
Yes, installation errors are the top two causes of leaks. Metal roofs are durable, so issues usually stem from improper installation
Common Installation Mistakes and Fixes
We frequently encounter three common installation mistakes:
- Incorrect installation of roof-to-wall flashings
- Improper fitting of metal roof components, like valleys, pipes, and ridge caps
- Incorrect use of metal roof fasteners
These errors often happen when inexperienced shingle installers attempt to install metal roofs. Fortunately, many of these issues can be fixed if the metal is still in good condition.
Repairs typically involve removing and reworking incorrectly installed parts. For roofs with exposed fasteners, we address problems such as:
– Overdriven screws
– Underdriven screws
– Screws installed at an angle
– Using the wrong type of screw
If your metal roof uses hidden clips or concealed fasteners, repairs can be more challenging. Hidden fasteners are covered by the metal roofing, making them difficult to access. If the wrong fasteners were used, the entire system might need replacement.
Metal roofs are built to withstand severe weather, but if yours blew off during a mild storm, it likely had insufficient fasteners.
Repairing Older Metal Roofs
An older metal roof doesn’t necessarily need replacing if it starts to leak. A properly installed metal roof can last 50 years or more, so if your roof is older, there’s no need to worry.
Leaks in older roofs often occur around areas like chimneys, skylights, or pipe vents, where special sealants are required. Over time, these sealants can fail due to temperature changes and metal expansion. These issues can usually be fixed.
For an older metal roof, have a local roofing contractor perform a thorough inspection. A reputable contractor will determine if your roof has a useful life before recommending repairs.
Maintenance Tips to Prevent Leaks
Regular maintenance is essential for preventing leaks and extending your roof’s life. Here are some key tips:
- Regular Inspections: Arrange inspections every six months to identify potential problems early, such as wear, rust, and loose fasteners.
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Ensure gutters and downspouts are debris-free to avoid water buildup.
- Sealant Check: Examine sealants around flashings, vents, and other roof penetrations, and replace any worn sealants.
- Remove Debris: Keep the roof surface clear of leaves and branches that can trap moisture and cause rust.
- Trim Overhanging Branches: Trim branches near your roof to prevent damage from falling.
