Metal roofs are a popular option for homes in Columbus, OH, because of their durability and weather resistance. But as with anything metal, rust and corrosion are major concerns you need to watch for. They can cause serious damage really fast if you’re not paying attention. Scheduling regular maintenance is the best way to stay on top of small issues that will prevent leaks and deterioration.
Local Weather Patterns That Increase Rust and Corrosion
Living in Columbus means your roof experiences a lot of seasonal weather throughout the year. The humid summers are well known for causing algae growth and moisture buildup on roofs. Snowy winters bring about ice dams that block drainage and force water under roof seams, which increases the risk of leaks. Even the temperature swings between daytime highs and overnight lows can be rough on roof coatings. You might notice flaking, bubbling or peeling as a result. All of these issues can turn into rust and corrosion problems as moisture continues to penetrate the protective layers.
Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear
Gutters have the specific job of moving water away from your roof. Over time, especially during storms, they can clog with leaves and twigs, resulting in water backups. The standing water may rust your metal roof, particularly near the seams and fasteners.
Clearing the gutters on a regular basis is an effective way to mitigate water damage and prevent corrosion. As you’re cleaning them, it’s important to check the downspouts. They must stay clear so they direct water away instead of toward the foundation of the house.
Keep the Roof Clear of Leaves, Twigs, and Other Debris
Just like your gutters, your roof needs to be clear of any leaves, twigs, and other debris. As the buildup piles up and holds moisture, it damages the finish and starts the formation of corrosion in small spots. And after every storm, the corrosion will get increasingly worse.
Cleaning the roof at least twice a year can ensure there isn’t any trapped debris contributing to corrosion or rusting. We suggest using a leaf blower or soft broom to clear away loose materials. Just make sure not to scratch the roof and don’t drag anything across the surface. If you’re not comfortable doing the cleaning yourself, you can always hire us to handle the job safely.
Inspect for Scratches or Chips in the Paint
Your metal roof has a coating on it that works to keep moisture out. Anytime the coating gets scratched or chipped, it reduces its ability to protect the metal underneath.
Checking for small marks during seasonal checks, especially after storms, can help spot problem areas fast. Using touch-up paint on the affected spots is an ideal way to prevent rust and seal small chips. However, if the damage spreads across larger sections, you’ll need to have a pro do a full recoating. The roof might even need replacement in certain parts to restore its protective barrier and prevent further corrosion.
Seal Roof Fasteners
The screws and fasteners on your roof will loosen over time. And the looser they become, the less they can seal properly. Water may seep into the materials underneath the panels, causing corrosion and structural damage.
Tightening loose screws and fasteners is not something you want to do yourself. It’s a dangerous job that requires expert training and proper safety equipment. We’ll have to carefully inspect and secure each one to make sure every connection holds tight and prevents future leaks.
Use a Mild Cleaner for Seasonal Washing
Your roof will last much longer and experience less corrosion if you clean it at least once each season. When doing this, we highly recommend using a mild cleaner. The goal is to get rid of all grime, bird droppings, and built-up pollution. A cleaner that has harsh chemicals or abrasives will only make the corrosion worse by stripping away the protective coating.
Don’t ever pressure wash your roof. If you do, there’s a good chance you’ll dent the panels or peel off the finish. Talking to us about proper roof cleaning methods can save you a lot of money and time so that you avoid costly repairs down the line.
Trim Back Overhanging Branches
Tree limbs that hang over your roof can easily scratch and damage the protective coating, which can cause corrosion. Plus, overhanging branches and leaves make it easier for pests to access your roof. Droppings and nesting materials from birds or rodents are leading causes of rust because they trap moisture against the metal.
To keep all this debris from building up, you should trim back the branches at least once or twice a year. This is another job that a professional can help with if you’re unsure or uncomfortable doing it yourself. Certified arborists are pros at removing large limbs safely without any risk of damaging your roof.
Fix Dents or Impact Damage Right Away
Dents are one of the worst things for a metal roof because they will crack as time goes by. The cracks make small pockets where water can pool, leading to corrosion and rust.
Anytime you notice any dents or dings on the roof, you should call us. We’ll do a thorough inspection to assess the damage so we know exactly where to repair and reinforce the affected areas.
Watch for Rust Around Roof Edges and Seams
Once a month, do a walk around your house to check the roof for signs of rust or corrosion. Make sure to pay special attention to roof edges and seams, as these are more vulnerable to moisture buildup and wind exposure.
Upon seeing any bubbling, rust stains, or dark streaks, give us a call right away. Catching the rust early is vital to preventing long-term damage and expensive repairs.
Check Flashing and Sealant Areas Often
Your roof has flashing on it around any chimneys, vents, and roof joints. It must have a tight and sealed connection to block water from seeping inside. When it cracks or lifts due to corrosion or shifting materials, it can expose the roof structure to serious moisture damage.
You won’t be able to fix flashing issues yourself. It requires skill and precision, so you should always let a professional roofer do the repair. We’ll make sure everything is watertight and secure.
Apply a Roof Coating Every Few Years
Acrylic and silicone are effective coatings for metal roofs that help reduce corrosion, but they don’t last forever. To achieve the best protection, you must reapply them every 10 to 15 years. The recoating process entails working up high in the air and handling harsh chemicals, making it extremely dangerous for the average person.
Here at The Roof Detective, we’re experts at adding new coatings to metal roofs. We can normally complete the job in about one to two days, depending on any prep work we have to do.
Get Top-Notch Support
We encourage you to reach out if you have any questions about maintaining your roof to reduce corrosion and rust. Our premium support for inspections and protective coatings will keep your roof looking and performing at its best year-round.
Call The Roof Detective now to access top-tier roofing services in Columbus.
