The Roofing Resource Blog

Maintenance and Repair Options for Metal Roof Coatings

Fri, Jan 16, 2015 @ 10:47 AM | Exterior Pro Roofing

When you choose a quality metal roof coating with professional installation, you will face fewer worries about repairs and maintenance problems. The right coating for your type of roof and the environment will hold up longer without excessive effort on your part.

Maintenance for metal roof coatings

Your roof should be professionally inspected at least once a year, preferably twice. Keep in mind that some coatings do not accommodate heavy foot traffic. Drains and gutters must be kept clean or excess puddling will occur. Most metal roof coatings include algae or mold inhibitors. If mold growth is detected, it should be cleaned properly.

Pressure washing should always be performed with caution. High-pressure contact along penetrations or seams can cause damage. Low pressure cleaning is recommended. During an inspection, if signs of pooling are noticed, repair work should be scheduled. This will prevent damage to the underlying roof structure.

coated_metal_roofMetal roof repair

Sections of a coating system can be repaired or restored professionally. Acrylic latex caulk and other products are available to provide long lasting seals for seams and penetrations. Patching can be performed with fabrics or heavy sealants. Fabric lined butyl tape adds strength and water resistance for seams.

Recoating of the surface should be performed when the original coating is nearing the end of its service life or is showing signs of aging or damage. The existing coating material must be identified in order to select the correct products for a recoat. For example, an existing silicone roof coating can only be recoated with a silicone based primer and coating.

Professional difference

The preparation of the metal roof before a coating is applied is extremely important to the finished results. All debris must be removed and loose seams must be tightened and sealed. A rust inhibitor should be applied as part of the primer process. The correct primer is what allows the coating to have maximum adhesion to the roof.

Do discuss maintenance requirements and repair options with a professional. Even a complete restoration of a metal roofing system can cost less than 25 percent of a new roof installation.