Why Metal Roofing Makes Maintenance a Breeze
December 22, 2016 | By Mike Gonet | Filed under: Articles, Education, General, Metal Roofing
For homeowners seeking a long-lasting, low-maintenance roofing material, aluminum, copper, or zinc options offer great versatility. These metal roofing materials typically last 50-100 years with almost zero necessary upkeep, while asphalt shingles usually do not last longer than 20 years. Learn more about the minimal metal roof maintenance and how it stacks up to other materials.
Easy Maintenance
To properly maintain a metal roof, the only necessary task will be removing any leaves, branches, and debris. To prevent damage, remove debris with a window washing brush attached to a long pole. Keep debris from accumulating in gutters, as this can lead to moisture and corrosion problems around the perimeter of the home. Additionally, keep any nearby trees trimmed back to prevent branches from rubbing against the house. Otherwise, high-quality materials require virtually no other regular metal roofing maintenance, on top of lasting three to seven times longer than asphalt shingles.
Comparing Materials
Quality aluminum, copper, and zinc metal roofing does not require any additional protective coating, which significantly reduces maintenance needs. These materials are more durable than steel roofing options, which require annual inspections of the screws and grommets and can rust if they are not covered with a protective coating. Aluminum is a versatile option that can last up to 50 years, while zinc and copper materials can last up to 100 years. Aluminum standing seam roofing systems are often painted with a durable paint like Kynar 500, which gives homeowners more color options without adding extra maintenance or sacrificing the longevity of their investment.
With basic care and monitoring, homeowners can keep metal roofing attractive for decades, which can protect this investment and minimize expenses. However, not all metal roofs are created equal. Property owners should work with a specialized metal roofing contractor to ensure the best products and installation backed by a workmanship warranty.
