Metal roofing Houston has plenty of benefits. Metal roofs are known to be more durable and last longer than other types of roofing. It's also more environmentally friendly since when the time does come to replace metal roofing, you can recycle it. Metal roofing is even more energy-efficient. Asphalt roofing soaks up the sun's rays, causing you to use your air conditioner more during the hot Houston summers, but metal roofing reflects those rays. Of course, like any roofing, metal roofs need maintenance and roofing repair Houston sometimes.
Causes of Leaks in Metal Roofing Houston
A leaking roof puts a damper on any day, but before you panic, be sure it isn't something else. If your water heater, pipes, or ductwork create too much moisture, it could cause condensation to build up and look like a roof leak. If it is a leak, there is likely one of two causes.
1. Weather- or Age-Related Damage
Years of facing rain, sleet, snow, and the hot sun cause your roof to break down over time, especially if it hasn't been properly maintained. Over time, seams begin to separate, rust appears, and sealants start to melt away.
2. Poor Installation
New roofing may leak if it wasn't installed properly. Misusing or not using caulking sealants or failure to use extra sealant around eave connections are common problems, as is improper installation of flashing, joints, or roof penetrations.
Repairing Your Metal Roofing Houston
If you notice a leak, repairing your roof as soon as possible is essential for protecting the rest of your home. This may require several steps.
1. Patching Holes
You can often patch minor holes for a more affordable price than a full roof replacement. Locate the holes, remove any dirt or debris from the area, and then use a putty knife to remove flaky, loose roof coating.
Once clean, apply butyl tape around the area you need to patch (1-2 strips are typically sufficient.) Cut a patch of galvanized metal so that it's large enough to overlap the hole with 2-3 inches to spare on every side. If you don't have access to galvanized metal, you can also apply a metal fiber membrane even underneath and on top.
After you cut the roof material to size, pre-drill its holes and insert the screws. To ensure you fix the leak, the screws must be strong enough to fit through the patch, its tape, and the material you're patching, creating a snug fit against the panel. Never screw into your roof's trusses or rafters!
After drilling the patch into place, seal it with caulk. When the caulk is dry, cover the entire area with a roof coating.
2. Removing Rust and Replacing Fasteners
If there are no leaks yet, you can prevent major damage by repairing minor rust and corrosion areas now. You can remove rust from your metal roofing Houston by sanding or grinding the area. In a pinch, you can even use a wire brush to scrub it away. After removing rust spots, use a rust-inhibiting primer on the area before applying a new roof coating.
Corroded or missing fasteners on your roofing should be replaced right away. Replace them with butyl rubber washers and then cover them with caulk and sealant. Re-apply roof coating after the sealant dries.
3. Replacing an Entire Section
Unfortunately, if your roofing goes unchecked for too long, you may need to replace an entire section. Damage of this caliber could mean there is also damage to the rafters and other areas directly under the roofing. Wet insulation and other structural damage will need to be addressed. Larger projects like this are best left to professional roofing contractors Houston to ensure your safety.
Maintaining Your Metal Roofing Houston
Maintaining safe roofing requires an annual inspection. Remove dirt and debris from the roof, clean the gutters, and ensure no trees are brushing against the roof, as it can cause damage over time. This is the best time to remove any rust and recoat your roof if it needs it. Doing so will extend its life and save you money on repairs and replacement over time.
The best way to maintain and repair your metal roofing Houston is to hire Guardian Roofing. Our experienced roofing contractors Houston provide top-of-the-line service that keeps your home or business safe, functional, and beautiful. Learn more about our roofing repair Houston by calling us at 832-998-3458.
How To Repair and Maintain a Metal Roof | Guardian Roofing - Houston, TX
