Metal roofing has been modernized and optimized for storm protection, HVAC efficiency, curb appeal, and more over the last few decades. Now, it’s a more safe and reliable choice than traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles! However, if your metal roof isn’t inspected on a regular basis, its amazing properties may fail you. In order to maintain an effective metal roof, it’s important to have a professional look it over – but what do they need to look for and how often?
Metal Roof Inspection List – What to Look For
Having your metal roof inspected on a regular basis can save you tons of headache and money over time. Finding fault points early on usually means that fixing it will cost a lot less and the damage done will be minimal. But what types of things do inspectors look for?
- Aging: One of the best things about metal roofing is that it lasts a lifetime! A well-maintained metal roof can last from 6 to 8 decades. However, as they age, metal roofs can show signs of deterioration, worn paint or sealant, corrosion or rust, leaks, sagging, and more. An inspection can help to identify these signs very early so they can be treated easily – you can enjoy your metal roof for decades to come.
- Damage: Whether storm-related, sun-related, or other, metal roofing is susceptible to damage over time. It is true that metal roofing has higher safety ratings for wind, rain, hail, and fire than other traditional roofing materials, but it is not indestructible. Inspectors will look for punctures, tears, leaks, and other signs of damage.
- Debris: In general, it’s not good for debris to sit around too long. That’s especially true on metal roofs! If piles of leaves, branches, or even patches of dirt and mildew are left unaddressed over time, they can harm your roof! Inspectors will keep an eye out for any debris and compromised areas of the roof.
- Hardware: Metal roofs are held together by seams and fasteners that may weaken over time. Inspectors can check whether or not any need to be replaced. If this hardware fails, it can make your roof less secure and less able to protect your home from extreme weather events.
How Often to Have a Metal Roof Inspected
Now you can see why regular roof inspections are vital for any homeowners with metal roofing. As professionals, we highly recommend all metal roofs be inspected up to 2 times every single year! You should get in the habit of having your roof looked over once in the Spring and once in the Fall, as well as after major weather events.
At least one of these bi-annual inspections should be conducted by a metal roofing professional – there are things we know and have been trained to spot that the average person simply may not notice – the other, you can easily do yourself! Here’s a quick cheat sheet for a DIY metal roof inspection:
- Rust spots or corrosion
- Thinning or cracking paint or sealant
- Debris piles
- Mildew or mold
- Blocked gutters
- Exposed hardware
- Cracked silicone
If you notice any of these checklist items, call your roofing company! If you’re in Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, or Mississippi, call the Metal Roof Pros – we’d be happy to help answer any questions about roof inspections or even come out and take a look for you! You can get in touch with us here.