Should You Worry About Scratches On Your Metal Roof?
Metal roofing is a major investment. Installing a metal roof on your home is often much more expensive than installing traditional asphalt shingles, but this added cost pays off in terms of reduced maintenance, improved energy efficiency, and longer life. However, the longer lifespan of a metal roof also means that you'll need to live with any issues over the long term.
While major problems like leaks require immediate attention, the importance of less severe cosmetic issues may be a little more unclear. Scratches, scuffs, and other problems can occur following maintenance and repair work or even due to wind-driven debris and hail. Are these issues a major concern, and should you consider repairing them? Keep reading to find out!
Understanding How Scratches Affect Your Roof
Like scratches in your car's paint, scratches on your metal roof range from minor cosmetic issues to major structural defects. The scratch's location and depth are often the largest determining factors when deciding if a scuff or mark matters. While most homeowners focus on the appearance of scratches, their impact on your roof's corrosion protection is typically the most immediate issue.
A typical metal roof may use multiple layers of protection to protect against rust, including special coatings and weather-resistant paints. Minor scuffs may only partially penetrate the upper layer of paint, leaving your roof blemished but otherwise still protected. On the other hand, major scratches can penetrate the inner steel core of a panel, leaving it vulnerable to severe corrosion.
Inspecting Your Roof for Damage
Minor scratches typically aren't visible from the ground. If you can see large scratches or scuffed-up areas on your roof, the damage may be severe enough to require attention. On the other hand, smaller scratches can sometimes still penetrate the lower layers of your roofing. As a result, hiring a professional to inspect your roof for damage every so often can help you spot the early warning signs of trouble.
An inspection will also allow you to spot areas where corrosion may already be taking hold due to installation problems or damage suffered later. Note that some small scratches can also cause water to pool unexpectedly, further increasing the risk of corrosion. A professional can spot these issues and determine if repairs are necessary.
Deciding How to Address Scratches
Once you know that scratches exist, you'll potentially have a few issues. Cosmetic scratches primarily affecting the upper layer of paint are typically a job that only requires a little touch-up. These repairs generally don't need to be perfect since you only view your roof from a distance, and using the appropriate paint will restore the panel's protective properties.
On the other hand, deeper scratches will require more drastic measures, especially if there's already evidence of rust. A complete repair may involve replacing panels where scratches penetrate through the anti-corrosion protection. This option will ensure your roof doesn't rust and potentially suffer from severe future leaks.
For more info about metal roof repair, contact a local company.