When to Replace Your Metal Roof

Metal roofs can last 50 years or more. But unfortunately, nothing lasts forever and even metal roofing will need replacing sometime. If you have purchased a home with a metal roof, it can be difficult to judge the age of the materials. Here are a few red flags to know when you need to think about replacing your roof.

Leaks

If your roof shows signs of leaking, it is time to take immediate action. The problem might be small or large, but it is important to call in a professional to take a look. If not handled properly, you could be facing expensive water damage and rot in your roof’s structural support. Sometimes repairing a leak is a temporary fix, but it depends on the age of your roof. If it is an older roof, it might be more cost efficient and effective to replace the whole roof.

Rust & Discoloration

Large patches of rust cause the protective coating on your roof to deteriorate, eventually leading to cracks, holes, water damage and more. If you see rust on your metal roof, it is time to call in the experts. Most likely, this is a sign your roof needs replacing and not just repairs. Rust is a sign that your roof is aging and needs a new protective coating. Applying protective paint over the rust is only a temporary fix and eventually the metal will crack and leak.

Dips and Sags

Over time, heat can cause the metal panels to sag. As the metal wears thin from the elements, it becomes less effective and vulnerable to pooling. Pooling creates rust and corrosion, leading to the end of your roof. If you see spots where the water is collecting on your roof, you need to call in a professional to take a look. It will only get worse, so don’t delay.

The Age of Your Roof

Metal roofs are well known for their incredibly long lifespans. But whether you plan on staying in your home for half a century after installation or are considering how much value your roof will add to your home when you opt to sell it, it’s important to consider how long your metal roof has been on your home. Plus, the type of metal that makes up your roofing system is also worth keeping in mind, as they do not all last for the same amount of time.

How Long Do Metal Roofs Last?

Generally speaking, the rule of thumb is that you should expect your metal roof to last for 40 to 70 years after installation. This is, of course, assuming it doesn’t sustain any major damage during that long span of time. Below is a guide to the longevity of several commonly used types of metal roofing:

• Steel roofing – You can expect to get around 40 years out of a steel roof. While this is a shorter lifespan than other types of metal, it still greatly exceeds that of other roofing materials like asphalt shingles (which are good for around 20 years before replacement is needed).
• Aluminum roofing – Although aluminum is lighter than steel, it can actually last longer. These roofs tend to last for about 50 years before they have to be replaced, thanks in part to their famed resistance to corrosion.
• Copper and zinc roofing – These materials are grouped together because both have been known to have a maximum lifespan of 100 years. When it comes to minimum lifespans, however, zinc has a slight edge over copper—it can last for around 60 years while copper’s average minimum lifespan is 50 years.

Professional Installation Makes a Difference

Professional installation from day one can give your roof the longest lifespan possible. Between an excellent warranty and highly reputable roofing materials, your investment is safe. Professional roofers who deal with metal all the time have tips and tricks for installing a roof. They know what to do for your type of roof and how to make it last for years.

For professional installation of your metal roof, call Erie Metal Roofs today. We can take a look at your existing roof or help you plan a new metal roof for your home. Give us a call today to get started toward a new metal roofing system.