Discover the Power of Roof Maintenance and Repairs
Here in the Jasper, Georgia area, we can experience a wide range of weather conditions. This includes hot, humid weather from the glaring UV rays of the sun to hailstones and hard rains. All of this is typically accompanied by high winds. This makes it important to choose the right type of roofing materials for commercial structures, like standing seam metal. Roof repairs are needed sometimes, and this is one of the best materials to choose from.
The process for standing seam metal roof repairs isn’t much different from other roofing materials. However, there are a few distinctive considerations that require they should be completed by an experienced professional roofing contractor.
They begin standing seam metal roof repairs by inspecting the roof and assessing the damage. Once they have the scope of the project in view, they determine the best approach. When damage is in one area, they can do a patch over the damage. If there is extensive damage, typically over 25% of the roof surface, standing seam metal roof repair isn’t going to be sufficient. Instead, the contractor will discuss having a full roof replacement installed.
Are there benefits to a standing seam metal roof?
Repairs aren’t always possible, but are there benefits that make this type of commercial roofing worthwhile? Yes, standing seam metal roofing has tremendous benefits which makes it a fierce competitor for commercial and residential structures:
- STRENGTH: A 24-gauge metal for standing seam roofing is the thickest material and the strongest.
- SAFETY: Because of the 24-gauge weight, standing seam roofing provides a high level of protection from hailstorms and wind damage. Ice, rain, and snow are shed better on this roofing material making it less susceptible to ice dam forming. It is a non-combustible material, making it fire-resistant, and can be eligible for a reduced insurance rate.
- LEAK-PROOF: Metal roof repairs are typically for leaking, which is typically caused by screws used during installation entering the sheathing or where the panels meet. Standing seam metal roof repairs are minimal because they aren’t any screws penetrating the panels.
- AESTHETICS: Standing seam metal roofing provides an eye-catching appearance with clean lines and brilliant color choices available.
- LONG LIFESPAN: When standing seam metal roofing is installed correctly by qualified roofing contractors that have experience in metal roofing, the lifespan can be up to 30 years or longer.
- UPKEEP: Standing seam metal roofing requires minimal maintenance and upkeep. Because screws aren’t used for installation, there isn’t any concern to replace or tighten the screws. No screws eliminate the build-up of debris and dirt that can corrode and rust a roof. This minimizes needing multiple standing seam metal roof repairs.
- ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY: Standing seam metal roofing is made with recycled content, and when it has reached the end of roof life, the metal can be used for other metal products.
What are the common reasons for standing seam metal roofs to leak?
There are 6 common issues that cause needing standing seam metal roof repairs for leaking, including:
- Oil CANNING: This happens when a standing seam metal roofing system is over-stressed and can’t lay flat as intended. Oil canning allows the metal to give, creating visible waves. Oil canning can lead to a leaking roof, leaving you with needing possible frequent standing seam metal roof repairs.
- CORROSION: This can cause leaking if left undetected and unaddressed, resulting in standing seam metal roof repairs. This typically happens on the underside because it wasn’t properly coated after the installation as water molecules get trapped between the panel and the insulation. The metal weakens and corrodes.
- SALTWATER: Standing seam metal roof repairs are common in areas close to saltwater which can cause corrosion.
- Mixed Metals: Some metals cannot be used together because it causes a negative interaction, leading to corrosion and the need for standing seam metal roof repairs.
- CUT EDGES: These edges should be hemmed or they can be subjected to minimal rusting, but if not addressed, it can lead to standing seam metal roof repairs.
- POOR INSTALLATION: This is the number one reason you want to find a commercial roofing contractor that has worked with standing seam metal roofing. They will be familiar with the intricacies of working with metal and you’ll have less need for standing seam metal roof repairs later.
How is a standing seam metal roof inspected for damage?
Monthly inspections by your maintenance crew are recommended to determine if you need standing seam metal roof repairs. The things that should be checked for are:
1. Ponding Water
This is evident after heavy rains. If there are water puddles on the roof, this can be caused by a clogged built-in roof drain system. If the problem isn’t found and addressed, you’ll be faced with extensive standing seam metal roof repairs.
2. Flashing Damage
Roof seams that have separated become vulnerable to water infiltration and will lead to standing seam metal roof repairs.
3. Leaking Roof
Look for areas of the roof that could be leaking. Getting standing seam metal roof repairs as quickly as possible when there is suspected leaking is important.
4. Water Spots
If you notice water spots on the interior of your building, an inspection of the roof is recommended for possible standing seam roof repairs.
5. Roof Fasteners Loosened
The roof inspection should include checking the roof fasteners, making sure they haven’t come loose or are gone. If the inspection discovers this, standing seam roof repairs are needed before the roof starts leaking.
6. Mildew and Mold
If there is mildew or mold on the roof, the inspection should include under the roofing surface for possible standing seam metal roof repairs immediately.
How are standing seam metal roof repairs done?
Standing seam metal roof repair of a hole caused by corrosion can be done for a small area with the following steps:
- Clean the area needing repair.
- Scuff the area with sandpaper.
- Measure the area needing repair.
- Cut a piece of the same type of metal just larger than the damaged area.
- Install the patch and secure it with roof sealant and metal screws.
- Paint the patch to match the existing metal.
How long will the stand seam metal roof repair take to complete?
This will depend on large the damaged area is and the location of the leak. Most standing seam metal roof repairs can be completed in a couple of hours, but the patch can take up to 24 hours for the sealant to cure and dry.
In Closing
Are there long-term benefits to standing seam metal roof repairs? Yes, when done correctly by a professional commercial roofing contractor, these repairs will extend the lifespan of the roof, saving you from having to get roof replacement sooner than expected. Please get in touch with us at 706-301-8630 if you would like to confer about the needs for your standing seam metal roof in Jasper, GA. We’d be happy to help!
