As Metal Roof Pros, we only have amazing things to say about installing a metal roof on your home. They’re efficient, cost-effective, and safer than other materials. However, like any other material, metal is prone to certain types of deterioration. Rust can be an eyesore, but it can also be detrimental to the functionality of your metal roof. It’s important to address rust spots when you see them! In this blog, we’ll talk you through how to tackle rust on a metal roof.

Preventing Rust on a Metal Roof

One of the best things you can invest in for your metal roof is rust prevention. Nowadays, many metal roofing materials come with rust treatment, but you should always talk with the manufacturer or the professionals installing your roof about rust.

The only way to keep metal from rusting is to coat it with a rust-resistant material. For many metals, a coating of zinc will work well to keep the rust away. This can be done by applying a layer or two of a zinc primer on top of a clean metal roof. You may need to have this applied every few years to keep your roof protected well. If zinc won’t work for your roof, you can use acrylic! These types of coating can be effective for upwards of a decade.

Another great way to prevent rust is to keep your metal roof free of debris and squeaky clean. When you notice build-up, carefully get on your roof and remove leaves, pine needles, pinecones, branches, and sticks. You can also use a mixture of a mild detergent and water with a cloth or soft-bristled brush to scrub away any mildew or residue. If you wash your roof, use a plain water hose (not a power washer) to rinse away the suds.

Why You Should Call the Pros to Handle Rust

A rusty metal roof is not something to be taken lightly. The effects of rust can mean bad news for your roof (and your wallet) if not addressed properly. Tackling rust on a metal roof involves harsh chemicals and powerful washing tools that are unsafe to use if you don’t have the proper training and safety equipment.

When you call a professional to get rid of the rust on your roof, they will use a professional-grade power washer along with a strong acid to eat away all the nasty rust. If done incorrectly, these tools and materials can do more harm than good. Using acids incorrectly can result in damaged roofing materials and harm to your skin! Using a power or pressure washer incorrectly can result in an unsightly dented roof or damaged paint. Due to these risks, we can only recommend that you seek out the help of a roofing professional to handle a rusty metal roof.

If you need advice or guidance on preventing or treating rust on your metal roof, you can always call the Metal Roof Pros! We proudly serve 6 different states – Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Mississippi. Get in touch with our team of experienced metal roofing professionals here!