Do you want to repair or replace your metal roof? Give PRS Roofing a call at (800) 750-9198 to learn what we can do for you.
If your home has a metal roof, you already know the benefits of metal roofing. Compared to traditional roofing, a metal roof is extremely durable and can help reflect heat the heat of the Florida sun. At PRS Roofing, our team of metal roof contractors in Deltona, FL, has extensive experience with the technology and can help you determine whether it’s time to get a metal roof replacement.
Know Which Type of Metal Roof You Have
There are two main types of metal roof, and the signs that you need a repair or replacement can vary based on which type of roof is on your home.
In a screw down panel metal roof, the roof’s fasteners are exposed to the elements. For this reason, it’s also called an exposed fastener roof. You’ll be able to see washers or screws on the metal’s face holding each metal panel down.
Standing seam metal roofs are far more common. These have a series of metal panels that interlock with each other, allowing the metal to expand and contract as the outside temperature changes. A standing seam metal roof has a smoother appearance, without visible fasteners.
If you aren’t sure what kind of metal roof you have, experienced metal roofing contractors can tell you when they perform your next annual roof inspection.
Signs That You Need To Replace Your Metal Roof
Metal roof replacement is a straightforward process, but knowing whether you need a replacement roof can be a matter of some debate. It’s always best to have experts assess the metal roofing materials and layout in order to determine whether you need to salvage it or scrap it. Here are some signs to look for before you call your metal roofing contractors.
Damaged Metal Panels
Regardless of the exact material your metal roof is made from, extensive damage to the panels means you’ll likely need to replace it. The Orlando area is famous for its thunderstorms and strong winds from hurricanes, both of which can damage a metal roof beyond repair. For this reason, it’s a good idea to schedule a roof inspection after any major storm.
In addition, you can keep an eye out for signs of damage to the roof’s metal panels yourself. Look out for:
- Dents and dings
- Deep or long scratches
- Puckering or bending panels
- Water damage inside your home
Heavy winds, large hailstones, and fallen branches are the most common culprits when it comes to sudden damage to a metal roof. The older a roof gets, the more severe the damage is likely to be.
Because either type of metal roof is susceptible to this type of damage, being vigilant and proactive in your roof’s care can pay dividends in the future.
Wallowed Out Fasteners
If your metal roof has screw-down panels, its most likely point of failure is the exposed fasteners. Because a screw-down metal roof doesn’t allow the fasteners to move as the metal expands and contracts, the fasteners get wallowed out with time. This can lead to a leaky roof or even panels blowing off with the wrong gust of wind.
If you catch this early, your roofing contractor may be able to change just the fasteners and add a few years of extra life to your metal roof. However, the signs of wallowed out fasteners can be subtle, which is one of the reasons that getting your metal roof inspected annually is so important.
Damage to the Painted Finish
On a standing seam metal roof, you may notice that the painted finish on the metal panels has begun to deteriorate. This can happen after a heavy storm or as the simple result of decades of exposure to the elements. If you notice this, it’s important to have the roof repaired immediately.
Your metal roof’s painted finish is key to preventing rust and other forms of corrosion. You may not need a complete metal roof replacement in these cases, but a good roofing contractor should be able to promptly repair the damage.
When Should You Repair or Replace Your Metal Roof?
Every roof is unique. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to any leaky roof. Some situations, however, are fairly clear-cut. If your roof is buckled and cracked after 35 years of exposure to the elements, any roofing contractor will recommend a replacement. Likewise, for damage from a fallen tree, you may only need to replace one or two of your roof’s metal panels.
In cases of extreme, sudden damage to your roof, you’ll want to have contractors working on your project immediately. If you know that you’ll need a metal roof replacement in the near future, however, you can plan for this and potentially save money by selecting the right time of year.
Avoid replacing your metal roof during hurricane season if you can avoid it. Roofing contractors are at their busiest this time of year, and over the summer in general. Winter is a much slower season for roofers, and you may even get a lower price for your roof replacement. Most contractors won’t replace a metal roof in sub-freezing temperatures, so be aware of the weather forecast before you begin.
Unlike traditional roofing, many metal roofs don’t show signs of damage until it’s gotten severe. This is another reason that annual roof inspections should be one of your top priorities as a homeowner.
Your Roof Is in Good Hands with PRS Roofing
At PRS Roofing, we take great pride in being the top roofing contractor in Orlando and beyond. Whether you need a metal roof replacement or you have asphalt shingles, tiles, or something else entirely, we’ll visit your property and give you a free quote. With regular inspections and maintenance, we can even help extend the life of your roof. Give us a call at (800) 750-9198 or contact us online today at PRS Roofing in Orlando, FL.
