When it comes to choosing a roofing material, there are few better options than metal. A new metal roof offers incredible longevity, energy efficiency, and helps to increase property value. It is also environmentally friendly, easy to maintain, and lightweight.
While metal roofs are durable and long-lasting, they don’t last forever. It’s important that you don’t delay installing a new metal roof when the time comes, given that this can result in a number of potential issues for your property, such as water damage.
In this blog post, your expert team at Garvin Metal Roofs will highlight 6 sure signs that you need a new metal roof. These include old age, leaks, storm damage, sagging roof, and more. Let’s get started.
1. Old Age
Even the best quality roof—one that was professionally installed and maintained during its lifetime—will reach old age eventually. A metal roof can last for anywhere between 30 and 100 years. For example, a steel roof may last for around 40 years, while a copper roof may last for anywhere from 50 to 100 years.
Some of the factors that determine how long a metal roof will last include:
- Roof color
- Roof pitch
- Sun exposure
- Moss growth
- Installation
- Maintenance
Generally, if your metal roof is between 20 and 30 years old, it’s important to have it inspected for any issues. In some cases, it may simply be a better long-term decision to install a new roof rather than oversee extensive repairs.
2. Leaks
A roof is designed for many different functions. One of the most important is to prevent water from entering a property and causing damage.
There are a number of potential causes of a leak in a metal roof. These include the roofing screws that are used to attach the panels to the building’s frame. Issues with stack flashing, missing sealants, seams and overlaps, and curb flashings can also contribute to leaks in a metal roof.
In some cases, a small leak may be a minor inconvenience that is easily fixed. However, it can also potentially lead to bigger problems such as damage to electrical systems. Depending on the extent and cause of the leak, it may be a better idea to opt for a new metal roof instead of repairs.
3. Storm Damage
Storms are common in many parts of the United States and can cause extensive property damage, including roof damage. Common sources of damage to a roof during a storm include high winds, hail, rain, and falling debris (including tree branches).
Given how durable a metal roof is, it’s a smart choice in regions that are prone to storms. Still, it’s important to visually inspect your roof for damage or leaks after a period of inclement weather. If you do see a sign of damage, don’t delay in seeking repairs.
Depending on the extent of the metal roof damage, the best option may well be to install a new roof.
4. Corrosion and Rust
With metal roofs, protective paint is often applied to seal them in order to prevent rust and corrosion. However, over time, this sealant may become damaged or may not have been properly applied, which may lead to exposure and potential rust forming on the roof.
If a roofing metal contains more than one type of metal (such as aluminum or copper), this could result in corrosion due to a chemical reaction. Corrosion can eat through the material and increase the risk of leaks and water damage.
If you notice any patches of rust or corrosion on your metal roof, always be proactive in scheduling professional repair and maintenance. In some cases, so much of the metal material has sustained damage that the best solution is to actually replace the roof.
5. Sagging Roof
Given that metal roofs are highly durable and strong, it’s not common for them to start sagging. So, when that does occur, it’s important to take action to prevent further damage to your property.
A sagging metal roof is a sign that there is an issue with the roof and its foundational supports. Issues related to a sagging roof may include broken supports, corrosion, or extensive rust.
As with the above points, in some cases, the best long-term solution may be to install a new metal roof.
6. Missing or Curling Shingles
Certain styles of metal roofs do come with shingles. Therefore, if your property uses such a type of metal roofing, you should periodically inspect them for any signs of wear and tear or damage.
Keep an eye out for missing shingles from the roof or shingles that are starting to curl. Curling shingles either occur due to cupping (when the edges of the shingle detach and turn upward) or clawing (when the edges stay attached while the middle portion moves upward).
Common Signs You Need a New Metal Roof
The above information highlights some of the common signs that you need a new metal roof for your property. If you are unsure about the condition of your existing metal roof, don’t hesitate to speak to the experts at Garvin Metal Roofs.
We install a whole range of metal roofs, including stone coated, standing seam, shingle look, barrel vault, canyon shake, and cedar shake. Best of all, we work with both residential and commercial roofs and offer great financing options with a near-instant credit decision.
Click here to schedule an appointment with a professional metal roofing contractor. We look forward to speaking with you and helping you with your upcoming project.
