July 23, 2025 in Roofing
Metal Roof Maintenance: Tips and Tricks
Having a strong roof that resists weather and boasts impressive longevity is pretty metal. No, really, it is. A metal roof offers these benefits and can really help your house stand out amidst a sea of shingles. With that said, they still require some maintenance—no roof is invincible, after all. So grab a pen and jot down these crucial metal roof maintenance tips that will keep the top of your house in top condition.
Regular Inspections
The best kind of problem is the one that never happens; that’s why it’s so important to keep a keen eye on your roof. Just as you inspect your car, or even your face, for signs of concern, your metal roof deserves that same kind of attention. It does keep you dry year-round, after all.
It’s best to give your metal roof a good inspection at least twice a year—spring and fall are ideal—as well as following any major storms that could have caused damage. You want to inspect the whole of the roof for damage, but pay special attention to fasteners, seams, joints, and flashing. Any gaps, cracks, or missing hardware (screws and bolts) should be cause for concern. If you find such damage, metal roofing repair should be performed as soon as possible.
Keep the Roof Clean
Just as humans stay clean in the interest of health, it’s a good idea to keep your roof clean, as well. Leaves, branches, dirt, and other unpleasantries we won’t name can accumulate up there over time. If left unchecked, this could cause staining and possibly corrosion, so some good ol’ metal roof maintenance is in order.
Here are a few simple cleaning tips to avoid the issue:
- Use a broom or a leafblower to remove any loose debris.
- Using a garden hose, rinse the entire roof. Please note that pressure washers should not be used for this purpose because they can damage the coating on your roof.
- Take care not to scratch the surface while you’re up there—especially on painted metals.
Check for Rust and Corrosion
Though most metal roofs are designed to be durable and resistant, they’re still made of metal. Sooner or later, they will experience corrosion if you aren’t keeping an eye on things. This is hardly surprising, considering the elements they’re constantly exposed to, but something can be done to combat the issue. During your inspections, check the area for patches of discoloration or red-brown streaks, both common signs of metal corrosion.
If you do come across light rust, you can likely remove it with a soft wire brush and rust-inhibiting primer. Reacting promptly to the discovery of rust protects the durability and reliability of your roof—and keeps it looking nice and fresh!
Maintain Sealants and Coatings
Sealants and protective coatings are a strong first line of defense against ultraviolet (UV) damage as well as water damage. Without them, your metal roof wouldn’t last nearly as long as it otherwise could. And again, they aren’t invincible. Prolonged exposure to various weather conditions can degrade them, so some light metal roofing repair can go a long way to avoid bigger issues:
- Check them on a regular basis (at least once a year), keeping an eye out for peeling, cracking, or other signs of wear.
- If you notice any issues, reapply the coating or sealant according to manufacturer instructions. Depending on the climate, you can expect to do this every five to 10 years.
- Make sure you’re using sealants and coatings that are designed specifically for metal roofs.
Address Minor Repairs Promptly
Loose fasteners, small punctures, and separated seams may seem insignificant, but just as a tiny sprout can turn into an overgrown weed, things will only get worse. Your tiny problem can become a huge pain in the neck (and wallet) if you ignore it for too long.
Assuming you’re comfortable with making minor DIY repairs, you may be able to:
- Tighten/replace loose or broken fasteners
- Patch up minor holes using a roof repair kit
- Use sealant—again, metal-compatible—to reseal joints
Expert Metal Roofing Installation and Repairs
These metal roof maintenance steps are vital for a strong, long-lasting metal roof. By keeping an eye out for signs of damage, cleaning the roof regularly, and maintaining sealants and coatings, your roof can last for quite some time—and look good while doing it! Of course, there’s always the possibility that you’ll need repairs despite your best efforts, and we know just the company for the job!
PJ’s Roofing has fostered quite the good reputation in the area, and for good reason. Our track record with metal roof maintenance, repair, and installation is second to none. With years of experience under our belts, we know how to take care of any roof a customer throws at us. Get in touch if you need repairs, or if you’re ready to pull the trigger on a metal roofing installation!