Metal roofs are one of the most durable, long-lasting roofing solutions available. However, that doesn’t mean they are always perfect all the time. Problems can arise, and sometimes they’re out of our control. We’re here to discuss a few of the most common problems with metal roofs and their solutions.
#1 Oil Canning
Commonly occurring in flat metal panels, oil canning is an aesthetic issue rather than a performance issue. It can be defined as a visible or wavy distortion of the panels, and can occur on all types of metal (steel, aluminum, etc.). Oil canning can be caused by a number of issues, including improper handling or storage of the panels before installation, stress during the production process, and thermal expansion and contraction.
Solution: There are ways to minimize oil canning, however, there’s no 100% guaranteed way to prevent or fix it. You can take the following measures in order to reduce the look of oil canning on your flat panels:
- Add striations, which are a series of ridges or waves added to the panels
- Hire expert installers to avoid faulty installation
- Choose a thicker gauge or more narrow width when selecting your panels
#2 Scratches & Scuffs
Life happens around your metal panels. Scratches, nicks, and scuffs can occur from falling objects, severe weather storms, or even during installation. Most paint systems and finishes are extremely tough and will resist this aesthetic issue. Although, sometimes life just happens and these issues can’t be prevented.
Solution: Fortunately, Bridger Steel has paint pens that easily touch up scratches. These paint touch-up pens are designed to fill, seal, and repair, rather than just cover up. The pens have a felt tip, which allows for smooth and accurate application. They’ll spruce up your panels in just a few minutes.
#3 Leaks
Leaky roofs are a building or homeowner’s worst nightmare. Frankly, no one wants a leaky roof. There are very few reasons why a metal roof would leak, and most of them are the result of human error. Leaks can be caused by things beyond our control, like structural damage, ice damming, or heavy snow. They can also be caused by installation errors, including over or under driving the fasteners, driving the fasteners in at the wrong angle, incorrect seaming, or even improperly used sealants.
Solution: Leaks caused by human errors are preventable and fixable. One of the best solutions to ensuring your roof won’t leak is through expert installation. Whether you’re installing your roof yourself or hiring contractors, make sure the installer has a thorough understanding of how to install your products. Reading through the installation guides, making sure you have the correct tools, and having experience handling metal panels are all ways you can make sure your roof will not leak. Read through more tips on how to hire a contractor to avoid any other issues caused by faulty installation.
#4 Corrosion
Certain metals have different chemical makeups that can cause corrosion if they’re paired together. This most commonly occurs between the metal panels themselves and the accessories used to secure them to the building (like screws and fasteners). For example, if you choose Bridger Steel’s Truten™ A606 Weathering Steel finish, you cannot choose to use any Galvanized metal screws. This is because the two metals have different chemical makeups that would lead to galvanic corrosion, making the panels pull away from the screws. Instead, you must pair Weathering Steel panels with stainless steel fasteners. The majority of our other paints and finishes can be used with Galvanized fasteners.
Solution: The best way to avoid this type of corrosion is to talk with your Product Specialist before purchasing your panels and accessories. That way, you can make sure you’ve paired the right metals with the right accessories and avoid any issues dealing with corrosion.
#5 Fading Paint
Once metal panels are installed, they’re likely going to be exposed to direct sunlight during different parts of the day. This means that some of your panels that are in more shaded areas might retain their brightness and hue longer than those in spots where the sun is constantly hitting.
Solution: Fading can be more or less dramatic depending on the metal roof’s surrounding environment and different substances (like cleaning agents) it's exposed to. While sometimes fading is an unavoidable issue, most paint systems have incredible warranties. You should talk to your Product Specialist about your chosen paint system’s warranty in case the issue of fading ever comes up.
While a metal roof may have a few issues, overall, it’s an incredibly tough, long-lasting solution for roofing. The high-performing characteristics metal roofs have almost always outweigh any disadvantages or potential issues. Read through the Pros and Cons of Metal Roofing for more information about the benefits and drawbacks of this material.
If you’re interested in learning more about metal roofs, get in touch with our team of expert Product Specialists today. We’ll work directly with you to help you select the best panel profile, gauge, and color/finish for your specific project. Fill out our Get a Quote Form to get started.
