Metal roofs have increased in popularity over the last few decades, and for good reason. Alongside benefits such as being mold and fire-resistant, metal roofing will also outlast traditional asphalt shingles by at least twenty years. This increased lifespan makes them ideal for those who don’t want to worry about needing to replace their metal roof often. Extreme weather such as tornadoes, hurricanes, and abnormally large hail can contribute to the early demise of a roof. However, that is a risk with roofs of any material. Perhaps you’re wondering, “If metal roofs are so resilient, how will I know if they need to be replaced?”
Kinds of Metal Roofing
There are two basic types of metal roofing: standing seam and standard corrugated metal. A properly installed standing seam roof can last for at least fifty years. A properly installed and maintained corrugated metal roof is known to last at least 40 years. For both types of metal roofing, some of the more apparent signs that a roof needs replaced are flaws such as cracks or holes, broken, curled, or missing panels, and a sagging roof.
Other than damage from storms, which is typically more obvious than normal wear and tear that accumulates over the years, here are a few things to examine your roof for that will help you decide if it needs to be replaced.
Standing Seam
Standing Seam metal roofs have a waterproof coating painted on them. If that coating begins to significantly peel or fade, or the metal develops rusty places, it’s time to replace that roof. Oil canning is a term that refers to a wavy look that standing seam metal roofs can develop. This is merely aesthetic and does not compromise the integrity of the roof. However, if the roofing becomes warped, which is a more dramatic curling or bending than oil canning, it is no longer a weather-proof covering for the building and should be replaced.
Corrugated
Corrugated or screw-down metal roofs are secured to a building with open fasteners, meaning the screws or fasteners are not hidden or covered. As the weather fluctuates between hot and cold, dry and wet, these fasteners can give and loosen. Sometimes this problem is merely a matter of maintenance and tightening them will repair the roof. Over time, however, the holes in the metal can enlarge and the screws no longer fit or hold down the metal. If this becomes a widespread problem, it may be time to replace the entire roof and not only the fasteners. Too many missing or loose fasteners leave gaps for moisture to sneak beneath the roof and cause leaks or rotting. It also gives more leverage for wind to loosen entire sheets of metal.
Overall, metal roofing can provide the most stable and long-lasting roof for any home, shed, or other building. Barring significant weather damage, it’s made to last nearly a lifetime. The longevity and durability is worth the investment.
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