One of the greatest advantages of a standing seam metal roof is that it doesn’t require as much maintenance as other types of roofing systems. What makes it even better is some maintenance tasks can be done by homeowners. In today’s post, metal roofing and James Hardie® siding contractor DryTech Roofing LLC shares tips on standing seam roof maintenance.
Don’t Walk on the Roof
It is never a good idea to walk on the roof, regardless of the roofing type, and not just because it’s unsafe for individuals who do not have safety gear and training. Standing seam metal roofing is much thinner than asphalt shingles. Foot traffic on the roof can cause dings and dents, which can be detrimental to your roof’s looks and performance.
Hose the Roof Down
Metal roofs have a smooth surface that facilitates easy cleaning. All you need is a garden hose with an extension sprayer to simulate rain and let the water push leaves and debris towards the roof edge. Never use a pressure washer on roofs or James Hardie® plank siding, as it can strip the outer protective coating at higher settings.
Keep the Gutters Clean
All the leaves and debris you hose down from the roof will make its way to the gutters, so you have to make sure the gutters are kept clean. Investing in a gutter protection system can save you a lot of effort. They prevent solid matter from entering the gutters while keeping rainwater flowing through. Some designs work like filters, while others like hoods that shed leaves and debris to the ground.
Don’t Let Dissimilar Metals Touch the Roof
Contact between different types of metals, with the presence of an electrolyte, can cause a reaction known as galvanic corrosion. When this happens, one of the metals will corrode. On a metal roof, this usually happens when the wrong type of fastener is used for installation. When the two metals are exposed to an electrolyte like water, galvanic corrosion happens. Using a metal tool (a metal brush, for instance) for cleaning the roof can result in galvanic corrosion.
DryTech Roofing LLC is your leading provider of metal roofing and James Hardie® fiber cement siding. Give us a call at (240) 491-5600 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve communities in Maryland.