Fall Metal Roof Maintenance Tips

The Lansing, MI area enjoys a cool and comfortable fall season before a snowy and cold winter. Homeowners in the Lansing area should take advantage of the cozy fall weather to handle maintenance for their metal roofs. A few simple steps can help keep the metal roof looking and functioning its best for as long as possible while preparing the metal roof to handle the winter weather as best as it can. Maintaining a metal roof is easier than you might think, and many homeowners who upgrade to metal roofs are pleased to discover the minimal maintenance requirements compared to typical asphalt shingle roofs.

How Much Maintenance Is Required With a Metal Roof in Lansing?

While traditional asphalt shingle roofs may require occasional repairs after severe storms or high winds, metal roofs can withstand much more punishment and require far less maintenance overall than standard roofing materials. Most homeowners in the Lansing area find that their metal roofs only require maintenance once or twice a year. Quick visual inspections can help homeowners identify small issues before they become big problems, and cleaning is quick and easy for most metal roofs.

The maintenance requirements of a metal roof may be much easier to manage than those of a typical asphalt shingle roof, but that does not mean metal roofs are completely maintenance-free. Homeowners with metal roofs must take time for occasional inspections and address any problems with their roofs quickly. Metal roofs are incredibly durable and reliable, but they do have some vulnerabilities and require proper care and attention.

Lansing Homeowners Should Schedule or Conduct Regular Inspections

If you are physically able to visually inspect every surface of your metal roof, regular visual inspections will be easy. Walk around the home and check the roof for any debris accumulation, scratches, or signs of rust or corrosion. If you are unable to visually inspect your entire roof or do not feel safe doing so, an experienced roofing company could help you with regular metal roof maintenance, including inspections. If you have a multi-level home with a high roof, it is best to leave inspection to experienced professionals who have the proper safety gear and equipment to inspect the roof safely.

Clean Off Dirt, Mildew, and Other Elements

The Lansing area sees quite a bit of humidity during the warmer seasons, and this can lead to dirt, mildew, and even mold growth on some roofs. Depending on the types of messes you encounter, you can use some simple cleaning solutions to clean and protect your metal roof at each inspection:

● Remove rust with a gentle scrubbing cleaner and then rinse it with clean water. You can use metal primer to effectively patch the spot and then sealant will protect it from further rust damage.

● If you notice any scuffs or scratches on your metal roof, add some mineral spirits to a soft cloth and work it into the scratches. This helps prevent the scratches from penetrating the coating and minimizes their appearance.

● Most home cleaning products aimed at removing algae, mold, and mildew are not safe to use on your metal roof as they might damage the finish. Instead, mix one quart bleach with three quarts of water, and add 1/3 cup of powdered laundry detergent for a simple but effective cleaning solution. Apply it to the target areas, scrub gently, and then rinse with clean water.

● Dirt, dust, and other small debris particles are very easy to clean up with a simple solution of dish soap and water, then simply rinse with clean water.

Most metal roofs do a great job of naturally shedding debris accumulation, but every metal roof will need occasional cleaning. While you’re up there, it’s worth taking time to inspect other crucial parts of your roof and your home.

Clean Out Gutters and Drains

The gutters around your home’s roof must carry water safely off the roof, guiding it into downspouts and drains away from the house. If you live in one of the wooded parts of the Lansing, MI area, you should check your gutters every few months to clear away leaves, twigs, and other debris. It may be worth an occasional trip outside with your umbrella to check that your downspouts and drains are clear, too. You can potentially catch backups and other issues before they turn into bigger problems like water damage to the lower levels of your home.

Gutters connected to your metal roof require occasional attention; most homeowners typically clean their gutters once or twice per year depending on nearby tree coverage. If you have lots of trees around your home, try to check your gutters once every few months. Also, take time to check them after serious storms; high winds can kick up debris that can become lodged in your gutters.

If you recently upgraded to a new metal roof, consider adding gutter shields over your home’s gutter system. These devices allow rain to flow into the gutters easily while preventing leaves and other large debris from entering the gutters.

Remove Leaves and Other Debris Trapped on Your Metal Roof

Leaves may not seem like that big of a deal, but they carry bacteria and will start decomposing, potentially leading to mold growth or even corrosion on some types of metal roofs. The longer leaves remain on a roof, the more moisture they will accumulate from precipitation, which speeds up the decomposition process. A hose or power washer can be ideal for easily cleaning away leaves from most metal roofs. Similar to visual inspections, Lansing homeowners should only attempt leaf clearing if they can do so safely, otherwise it’s another job best left to professionals.

Make Sure No Other Metals Are Touching the Roof

Metal roofs are incredibly durable, but they do have some vulnerabilities. Some metal roofing materials like zinc alloys, copper, and coated galvanized steel will corrode after coming into contact with certain materials. Concrete, brick, and other types of metals are a few examples. If you notice any metal fragments or debris on your metal roof during an inspection, remove them immediately and check the roof carefully for any signs of deterioration or corrosion.

Lansing homeowners can ensure lasting value for their metal roofs with these easy maintenance tips. A metal roof may cost more to install than a standard asphalt shingle roof, but the tradeoff is greatly reduced maintenance and a much longer functional lifespan. Fall’s comfortable weather is the perfect time to prepare your metal roof for the harsh Michigan winter, so follow these tips and keep your home’s metal roof looking and functioning at its best all winter long.