Working With A Professional Contractor

If you have a metal roof, you likely benefit from the long-lasting materials and the resistance to fire and pests. However, it still needs to be cleaned and maintained on a regular basis, just like other roofing materials. The following tips will help you accomplish this.

Avoid Using a High-Pressure Washer

Be careful when rinsing or washing the roof, as using too much pressure can destroy the roof's materials. Also, if you have cracks or holes you aren't aware of, that can enlarge the hole and cause a lot of water to seep into your home. To prevent this, carefully inspect the roof first, then use a garden hose to rinse off the roof. Power washers, even on the lowest settings, generally have too much pressure for a roof. The exception is if you were told by a roofing contractor that the metal shingles or tiles can withstand higher pressure.

Use Ammonia on Moss and Algae

If you find signs of moss and algae on the metal roof, it should be removed as soon as possible. Regular soap and water probably won't be effective. In this case, you should add a small amount of ammonia to a bucket of water. Mix it well, then use a sponge to remove the algae from the roof, rinsing often. Continue using this mixture until no traces of moss or algae are left. This can also work well with mold or mildew on the roofing structure.

Consider the Type of Metal Roof You Have

When it comes to maintaining the roof and repairing damage, the type of metal makes a big difference. Some metal materials can handle elements better than others, while some of the others need more sealing and maintenance. For repairs, you might have a copper roof that can be soldered, while aluminum doesn't get repaired in the same manner. Some metal materials, such as metal sheets, are prone to rust, so they need some more maintenance than steel shingles.

Consult a Roofing Contractor

If you are not familiar working with metal roofing materials, you should consult a professional like Advanced Seamless Gutter & Roofing Inc. to make repairs. They can inspect the roofing system and find problems you might not be aware of. You might be able to see major damage, but minor issues, such as hairline cracks in the metal shingles, are more difficult to spot. This is why it is a good investment to pay a contractor to inspect the roof and make any necessary repairs.