Maintaining a Metal Roof In Pennsylvania
How to keep your new Metal Roof in perfect condition
As a modern and long-lasting roofing material, metal can add to the appeal of your property. However, even metal roofing is not immune to wear and tear due to harsh weather and improper maintenance. In Central Pennsylvania, we know that changing weather, harsh winters, and hot summers across the State College area contribute to the degradation of our homes. To keep your metal roof in good condition, there are some simple measures you can take.
Clean your roof
Cleaning the surface of your metal roof can help it maintain its appearance and functionality. However, over time, UV rays and exposure to oxygen in the air can cause the paint to degrade and become chalky. This does not necessarily mean your roof is at risk, but it does mean that it is important to clean it regularly. To clean your metal roof, use a non-abrasive washcloth, sponge, soft-bristled brush, or cleaning pad. Water is usually sufficient to remove dirt, but if there is a build-up of sap, grease, or other contaminants, you can use a light detergent mixed with water to break it up. Laundry detergent, car-washing detergent, and dish soap are all gentle roof cleaners to use on metal roofs. For tough stains, you can use bleach, rubbing alcohol, or mineral spirits to spot-clean them, but do not use these products on the entire surface. If you are unsure which products are safe to use on your metal roof, consult your roof manufacturer or roof installer before applying any solutions. Starway Roof Systems is always ready to help when it comes to roof maintenance and offering free roof advice to keep your metal roof looking its best. Regular roof maintenance, such as cleaning and touch-ups, can help reduce the effects of oxidation and protect your metal roof investment. Contact us for regular maintenance or a free inspection.
Keep gutters clear of debris
It is important to regularly clean your gutters to keep them functioning properly. Clogged gutters and downspouts can prevent proper drainage, causing water to linger on your roof and potentially causing damage to your roof, siding, walls, and foundation. To prevent these issues, make sure to clean your gutters at least once or twice a year, especially after the fall season when there may be more debris. Gutter cleaning may seem like a small task, but it can make a big difference in the lifespan of your gutter system and the overall protection of your home. If your gutters are old and in need of inspection, repair or replacement, Starway offers a variety of gutter options, gutter repair and gutter installation for your home.
Address scratches and scuffs
If you notice scratches, scuffs, chipping, or flaking on your metal roof, it is important to address them promptly. Surface scratches on a roof can be caused by a variety of factors, such as installation errors or storms, but many minor scratches can be repaired with a touch-up paint pen that matches the color of your roof. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using touch-up paint, as doing so improperly could make the imperfection worse or void your roof’s warranty. If the roof damage is extensive, do not try to repair it yourself and instead contact the manufacturer for assistance.
Trim trees that are close to your home
It is important to trim any tree branches that are close to your roof. Trees can provide shade, privacy, and aesthetic value, but they can also pose a threat to your roof. Falling branches or even the entire tree can damage your roof, so it is important to keep branches trimmed and a safe distance away. In general, the tips of a tree’s branches should be at least 6 feet from your roof, and when planting new trees, it is best to place them 20 to 30 feet away from your home. If you need to prune more than 25% of a tree, it may be best to remove it entirely to avoid instability.
For current trees around your home, you can prevent damage to your metal roof by pruning branches that are too close. It is advisable to hire an arborist to remove overhanging branches, but you can also use the same tactics you would use during a roof installation to safeguard your home and yard. For younger trees, you can prune them to ensure they develop strong branches and are less likely to break in a storm. Trees that are unstable or very ill should be removed as soon as possible to prevent them from falling onto your roof. Before cutting down any trees, be sure to consult your city’s bylaws and your arborist, as some tree species are endangered and cannot be removed. Some cities have laws about removing trees with a specific trunk diameter.
Do not stand on your roof
To prevent metal roof damage, it is generally best to avoid walking or standing on it. You can usually complete most maintenance tasks from the top of a ladder, but if you need to reach different parts of the metal roof, such as to touch up scratches or chipped paint, it is best to consult a roofing professional who can safely access those areas. At Starway, we are available for any job that might involve working on or around your roof. Contact us for assistance, advice, roof maintenance or roof repair. To safely walk on a metal roof, you need to understand the type of roof you have, wear appropriate shoes, use roof-top support equipment, and make sure conditions are favorable. Some roofing manufacturers may also have specific requirements to avoid damaging the roof, such as not exerting force on certain areas. To protect your metal roof and ensure that maintenance is done safely, it is best to leave tasks that require access to different parts of the roof to roofing professionals.
By following some simple tricks, you can help maintain the condition of your metal roof and prevent problems before they occur. This can extend the lifespan of your roof, maintain its appeal, and help you get the most value from your investment. Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your metal roof in good shape, as it is designed to last for many years. Work with a roofing contractor to plan regular roof maintenance to address any potential issues. Not only does maintaining your metal roof protect it from damage, it is also important for preserving its attractiveness, which can greatly impact the appearance of your home or business.
Starway offers maintenance, repair, inspection and installation of roofs and gutters so you can feel at ease knowing that your home is safe and your roof will stand the test of time. Our team of professional Amish roofers are roofing experts, offering service across the State College Area including Boalsburg, Port Matilda, Williamsport, Bellefonte, Howard, Harrisburg and beyond. We are ready to help you with any roofing dilemma. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with questions, to request advice, service or a free estimate.