Metal roofs are known for their durability and longevity, but over time, they can develop issues that lead to leaks and water damage. In this informative guide brought to you by Take Charge Roofing, we'll explore a real-life case of a metal roof with a leak and demonstrate how to identify and effectively fix common problems. Join us as we unravel the mystery of metal roof leaks and provide expert solutions to ensure your roof remains watertight.
Identifying the Leak:
When dealing with a metal roof leak, it's crucial to pinpoint the source accurately. In the provided video, we observe a few key indicators of the problem:
1. Paint Peeling and Shrinking: Notice how the paint around the roof's ribbed area pulls away and shrinks. This phenomenon often occurs due to water infiltration beneath the surface.
2. Cracks in the Coating: Small cracks in the roof's coating can allow water to seep in. Identifying these cracks is essential for effective repairs.
3. Water Trapped Under Coating: Water can become trapped under the coating, leading to bubbles and further paint damage.
4. Rust Around Screws: Metal roofs often feature screws to secure the material. Rust around these screws is a sign of water infiltration.
Understanding the Problem:
The root cause of the issue lies in cracks and openings that permit water to penetrate the roof's protective layers. The coating on metal roofs, especially acrylic or silicone coatings, can deteriorate over time, leaving the roof vulnerable to leaks. Water infiltrates the cracks and cannot escape, causing damage to the roof's structural integrity and aesthetics.
Fixing the Problem:
To address these metal roof leaks effectively, follow these steps:
1. Remove Acrylic Coating: Begin by removing the existing acrylic coating from the affected area. This step is essential to access the damaged surface beneath.
2. Replace Screws with Pan Head Screws: Replace any hexagonal fasteners with pan head screws, which sit flatter against the roof surface. This reduces the risk of water infiltration around fastener points.
3. Apply Turbo Poly Seal: Turbo Poly Seal is an excellent choice for sealing seams and cracks on metal roofs. Apply a coat of Turbo Poly Seal over the cleaned and prepared area. This high-quality sealant ensures a watertight bond.
4. Embed Fleece: To reinforce the seal, embed a fleece material into the Turbo Poly Seal. This fleece adds strength and durability to the repair.
5. Final Coat of Turbo Poly Seal: Apply a final coat of Turbo Poly Seal to seal the fleece in place and ensure a complete, watertight seal.
Why Coatings May Not Be the Best Solution:
While coatings are often marketed as a solution to metal roof leaks, our expert recommends caution. Acrylic and silicone coatings, when applied directly over existing issues, can worsen the problem by trapping water under the coating. This can lead to further damage and leaks.
Conclusion:
Fixing metal roof leaks requires a systematic approach, starting with identifying the source of the problem. While coatings are frequently advertised as a solution, it's essential to choose the right products, such as Turbo Poly Seal, for effective repairs. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can address metal roof leaks with confidence, ensuring a watertight and long-lasting solution. Remember, proper maintenance and timely repairs are key to extending the life of your metal roof.
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