A comprehensive maintenance plan for a metal roof involves several key tasks. Homeowners can safely perform some of these, while others require the skill and safety equipment of a professional.

1. Conduct Semi-Annual Visual Inspections

One of the simplest yet most effective maintenance tasks is to inspect your roof twice a year, in the spring and fall. From the safety of the ground, use binoculars to get a detailed look at the entire roof surface.

What to look for:

• Scratches, Scuffs, or Fading: Look for any areas where the protective coating may be compromised. Deep scratches can expose the underlying metal to moisture, potentially leading to rust.
• Loose or Damaged Fasteners: The fasteners that hold the metal panels in place are a critical component. Check for any that appear loose, backed out, or have damaged washers. These are common entry points for water.
• Panel Damage: Inspect for any dents, dings, or bent panels, which can occur from hail or falling branches.
• Sealant Condition: Examine the sealant around vents, pipes, and other roof penetrations. Look for any signs of cracking, peeling, or gaps that could allow water to seep in.
• Signs of Rust: Pay close attention to any discoloration that could indicate the beginning of rust formation, especially around cut edges or fasteners.

2. Keep the Roof Surface Clean and Free of Debris

Leaves, pine needles, branches, and other organic debris can accumulate on a metal roof, particularly in valleys and around penetrations. This debris traps moisture against the roof surface, which can degrade the protective coating over time and promote the growth of algae or moss.

Gently remove this debris using a soft-bristled brush, a leaf blower, or by rinsing with a garden hose. Avoid using pressure washers, as the high-pressure stream can damage the roof’s coating and force water into seams. Also, be mindful of dissimilar metals. For example, if copper or lead flashing is installed above a galvanized steel roof, runoff from the copper can accelerate corrosion of the steel.

3. Clear Gutters and Downspouts

Clean gutters are vital for any roofing system, and metal roofs are no exception. Clogged gutters cause water to back up and overflow, potentially pooling against the roof’s edge. On a metal roof, this standing water can work its way into the seams and fasteners at the eave.

Ensure your gutters are cleaned at least twice a year. If your metal roof has an older paint system, you may find paint chalking or granules collecting in the gutters. While some chalking is normal, an excessive amount could signal that the roof’s finish is nearing the end of its life and may need to be recoated.

4. Address Scratches and Damage Promptly

Minor scratches in the roof’s finish are common, but deep scratches that expose the bare metal should be addressed immediately to prevent rust. You can purchase a touch-up paint pen from your roof’s manufacturer that is specifically matched to your roof’s color and finish. Applying this paint will reseal the surface and protect the metal from the elements.

For larger areas of damage, such as from a fallen limb, it’s best to consult a professional. They can assess whether a repair is possible or if a panel needs to be replaced.

5. Schedule Professional Inspections

While homeowner inspections are beneficial, they cannot replace the expertise of a professional roofing contractor. A professional can safely walk the roof to perform a hands-on inspection, checking the integrity of every seam, fastener, and piece of flashing up close.

A professional metal roof maintenance visit often includes:

• A thorough inspection of panels, seams, and flashing.
• Tightening or replacing any loose or damaged fasteners.
• Resealing any compromised flashing or penetrations.
• Touching up minor scratches in the finish.
• Providing a detailed report of the roof’s condition and recommending any necessary repairs.