Identifying problems with your metal roof
Do you know how to identify problems with metal roofs and when it needs repairing, replacing or restoring? It’s not always easy to tell if you don’t know what to look out for, or how severe a problem really is (or isn’t). This guide identifies some key issues that homeowners may experience from time to time with their metal roofs, which can assist you in determining the appropriate next step. Never just assume you know what to do or that a problem isn’t serious as it could end up costing you in the long run.
Nails or screws missing from metal roof
Unfortunately, being made of metal and exposed to the elements, lead-head nails can rust and lose their heads. Metal screws rarely fail. However, if they were not set properly, were overdriven or were cheap and nasty to begin with, they could break off. When this happens, water can dam in the indents and get in. This ingress can then lead to:
• Water damage to batons,
• Warped structural timbers and
• Damaged ceilings.
If this issue is caught early and there is no pitted rust, the old lead-heads can be taken out and the roof re-screwed and repaired. However, if the damage is too severe, the metal roof may need to be completely replaced.
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Solution For Missing Nails or Screws
If this issue is caught early and there is not pitted rust, the old lead-heads can be taken out and the roof re-screwed and repaired.
Metal roof peeling paint (no pitted rust)
Even if the preparation was done properly and the painting was first-class, all paints will begin to lose their grip after 3 or 4 decades. Heritage Red paint is particularly susceptible to peeling. Once it starts to lift, rain and even morning dew get under the
paint and onto the exposed, untreated metal surface. This can lead to pitted rust. If pitted rust hasn’t yet formed, the roof can be repainted and restored. The peeling paint will of course need to be correctly removed with an industrial strength high-pressure cleaner, and a primer applied before repainting for a long-lasting result.
Solution For Peeling Paint
If pitted rust hasn’t yet formed, the roof can be repaired … and restored.
The peeling paint will of course need to be correctly removed with an industrial strength high pressure cleaner, and a primer applied before repairing for a long-lasting result.
Pitted Rust
Pitted rust is more than just surface rust – it is deep holes etched all the way through sheets of metal. It can occur following extended periods with little maintenance, particularly if there is a lot of tree cover and the roof is in the shade for much of the
day. Pitted rust is also highly prevalent in coastal areas. There are rare cases in which the pitted rust has been confined to one section, in
which case it may be able to be repaired. Unfortunately, in most cases, it is right across the roof, as capillary action draws moisture into the overlaps at the sheet joins. If your roof has pitted rust, we’re sorry to say but it may need to be replaced.
Solution For Pitted Rust
There are rare cases in which the pitted rust has been confined to one section, in which case it may be able to be repaired.
Unfortunately, in the majority of cases, it’s right across the roof as capillary action draws moisture into the overlaps as the sheet joins.
If your roof as pitted rust, sorry it may need to be replaced.
Metal roof rotten roof timbers
This is when water has seeped through the roof into the framework and slowly but surely damaged the woodwork. If you can see signs of rotting timber on the gables or exposed areas, it is usually an indication of trouble above. Sadly, hardwood timber doesn’t rot over one or two years. It is likely to have been an issue for a long time and will definitely need to be replaced.
Solution For Rotten Roof Timber
Sadly, hardwood timber doesn’t rot over on or two years. It is likely to have been an issue for a long time and will definitely need to be replaced.
Damp patches In The Ceiling
This is usually the first visible indicator of a water leak. Left unchecked, it will compromise the integrity of the ceiling and at best, it will lead to mould and mildew. At worst, it can cause the ceiling to physically fail. If addressed early enough, this
can often be a repaired. Of course, a full assessment will be required to work out how bad the problem REALLY is. As there is obviously water coming from above, the roofing issue will need to be resolved before you can really tackle the ceiling damage. Worst case scenario, the timber framework in your ceiling and the gyprock will need to be replaced.
Solution For Damp Patches in Ceiling
If addressed early, this can often be a repair .. a full assessment will be required to work out how bad the problem is of course. There is obviously water coming from above. The roofing issue will need to be resolved before you should tackle the ceiling damage. Worst case scenario, the timber framework in your ceiling and the gyprock will to be replaced.
Metal roof paint fading
This is when the roof paint has oxidised and become all powdery. Regardless of whether it is a Colorbond roof, or one that has been previously restored or re-painted, paint finishes DO have a lifespan (typically only guaranteed for 10 years). While not necessarily a structural problem, it could be an early sign that the roof needs some TLC. Based on the ‘stitch in time’ principle, it is better to act NOW to
have it repainted and restored.
Solution For Metal Roof Paint Fading
While not necessarily a structural problem, it could be an early sign that the roof needs some TLC.
Based on the ‘stitch in time’ principle, it is better to act NOW to have it repainted…. and … repaired.
Do you need more help with your roof?
MHI Roofing are fully QBCC Licenced and members of the Housing Industry Association (HIA). This means we can fully guarantee all our workmanship and products for your absolute peace of mind. In fact, we offer a full 10-year warranty on workmanship and materials, on all products, on every residential roofing job. 20 Years Experience. We’re proud to have assisted over 8,000 happy customers.
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