Roof Rust & Corrosion & How to Prevent It
Although rust is unsightly, it can also be extremely damaging, especially when it comes to a commercial metal roof. To ensure rust and corrosion don’t occur on your metal building roof coating, a few factors need to be considered and addressed. First, ensure your metal roof is properly installed; second, always use a protective coating; and third, maintain your roof with a regular maintenance plan.
Proper Installation
When considering to install a metal roof, do your research and hire a roofing professional that has experience, is licensed, and insured. Next, choose a metal that is resistant to rust and corrosion, such as galvanized steel, aluminum, or stainless steel; also select stainless steel or galvanized fasteners to prevent rust around screw holes. Finally, use appropriate sealants and gaskets to prevent water ingress at joints and seams, which can also contribute to the formation of rust.
Protective Coatings
A proven way to prevent your metal roof from rusting is to use elastomeric, silicone, or acrylic commercial roof coatings. Elastomeric coatings are offered in a wide variety of colors. Coating a metal roof forms a barrier that helps prevent rust or corrosion.
Another way to prevent roof rust is to have it galvanized, which involves coating it with a layer of zinc. Zinc offers an extra layer of protection and makes the roof sturdier and more durable. Galvanizing your roof can also stop any rust from spreading.
Using paint and primers on your roof is also a good idea. Applying a high-quality metal building roof coating will create a barrier between metal and the elements. Once you have galvanized and applied paint and primer, monitor your roof for possible needed touch-ups. Periodically repainting the roof will also help maintain its protective barrier.
Regular Maintenance
After your roof is installed with the appropriate protective coatings, inspect it regularly to ensure there is no rust. Begin by washing your metal roof at least once a year. Removing debris, dirt, and organic material that can trap moisture against the metal surface will also help prevent rust and other potential damage.
An annual roof inspection is also a good time to check and see if any washers or screws are rusting and if so, you should replace them. You can also use a wire brush to remove any small rust spots. If you notice an entire panel of your roof is rusted, it may be time to hire a roofing professional who can recommend the best course of action. Sometimes rusted areas can be scraped, sanded, ground off and repainted, or it may be time to replace certain areas of the roof.
However, before things get out of control, it’s best to set up a commercial roof maintenance plan with a professional roofing company like Capital Roof Care. In addition to looking for signs of rust and corrosion, a regular industrial roof inspection presents an opportunity to address any other potential damage such as scratches, dents, or damage to the protective coating.
Other Considerations
In addition to proper installation, applying protective coatings, and performing regular maintenance, there are some additional steps that can be taken to prevent rust and corrosion on your metal roof:
- Proper Ventilation: Ensure proper attic and roof ventilation to reduce moisture buildup.
- Minimize Exposure to Chemicals: Avoid exposure to chemicals and pollutants that can accelerate corrosion.
- Anti-Corrosion Sprays: Only use anti-corrosion sprays or treatments specifically designed for metal roofs.
By following all these steps, you can prevent rust and maintain the appearance and functionality while also significantly extending the life of your metal roof. For more information on metal roof protection or a roof maintenance plan contact Capital Roof Care.