The Top of Your Home: A Roofing Blog

Common Problems That Require a Roof Repair

While it's easy to forget about your metal roof and leave it to look after itself, this can lead to problems developing without you noticing. Metal roofs are tough, but they do require a little maintenance. The following are several issues that necessitate roof repairs.

Leaks

Rainwater entering the crawl space can wreak havoc on other structural components. Moisture can rot timber framework, spoil insulation, and cause mould and dark patches to show on your ceilings. The problem may be a worn-out piece of metal roofing, or sheets may have come loose. Another vulnerable spot is the flashing that lines the joints between the roof and chimneys and vents. Thus, if you notice signs on your ceilings or even experience dripping inside during a storm, don't hesitate to avert further damage and have everything inspected.

Insecure Panels

Metal expands in hot weather and contracts in the cold. Over the years, such thermal expansion can result in loose panels or ones that don't precisely join to seal your home from the elements. Modern roofs account for shrinkage and expansion in their design, minimising the effects. However, older roofs may suffer from loose and insecure panels that will require fixing.

Loose Screws

Sometimes it's the screws and fasteners that rust and become loose. Thus, in the wind, you might hear rattling as the sheets shake about. In a gale, they could even fly away. A roofer can replace rusty screws and add extra fastening to secure everything in place. 

Rusty Roofs

Modern metal roofing is covered in layers of shielding films that counteract rust, such as a zinc and aluminium skin topped off with hard polyester paint, a zinc-aluminium alloy or galvanised steel, which is steel dipped in molten zinc. While technology protects current-day roofing, older metal roofs can suffer from rust and corrosion. Depending on the extent of the decay, the roof will need repairs or replacing.

Gutter Problems

The gutters around the perimeter of your roof prevent rainwater from streaming in all directions. Without the guttering, water would run down the external cladding, dampen the foundations, and ruin the paving and garden. Possible issues include rusty screws, worn or sagging gutters, and blocked downpipes. The roofing panels protect your home's insides from rainwater, but the gutters channel water safely away to protect your foundation.

A regular inspection can pick up minor issues before they grow bigger. But if you have water dripping inside, notice signs of dampness, or hear strange rattlings, call a roofer who can check that everything is in place. 


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