When you have questions about the reliability and life left in an older metal roof, the team at Weather is here to provide professional solutions and explain the pros and cons of each. Our job is to ensure that your commercial property is as well protected as possible from weather issues today and in the future. Please know that our staff is here to provide a complete roof inspection and evaluation and a lengthy discussion on your options for any repairs or a replacement if that is your best investment.
Spotting The Warning Signs of Metal Roof Failure
Your commercial metal roof will likely serve you well for many decades. When correctly installed, these roofs are known to last 50 or more years, with some reaching the century mark thanks to exceptional care and maintenance. However, there are some sure signs that your old metal roof is no longer in its prime and could fail to provide the protection from the elements that you need for your commercial property. These indications include:
- Worn paint and discoloration of the roof surface
- Sagging panels when you view the roof from ground level
- Wrinkling or dimples from the impact of debris, hail, or other objects during a storm
- Loose panels
- Missing fasteners
- Corrosion
- Damaged seals and flashing
When you notice these visual indications of a metal roof reaching the end of life, it is time to contact Weather to discuss the cost of surface repairs and compare that to investing in a new roof. You might be surprised to learn that there are many repair options that offer at least a few years of additional life expectancy, allowing you to budget for a complete replacement.
A Cost-Effective Coating
The most economical way to prevent minor damage from ending the life of an old metal roof is to apply a heavy fabric-reinforced coating. This new surface will provide added protection from water leakage due to minor damage and rust as well as restoring the visual appearance of the roof. In some cases, the coating applied can also increase the reflectivity of the surface to reduce cooling costs for the property. However, the level of coating will determine the amount of life added to the roof, which is typically a few years to allow you time to prepare for a complete replacement.
Get A New Look for An Old Metal Roof
If the support structure of the roof is functional but the metal surface sheets have degraded, a metal panel retrofit could be a viable solution. New panels are installed over the existing metal roof to provide added longevity and dependability. The added service of the roof will be substantially longer than that of a coating. Still, it is critical to ensure the existing structure can support the added layer of metal panels and is capable of meeting the added years of service.
Adding A Single-Ply Membrane Roof Surface
In this scenario, layers of insulation then single-ply membrane are applied over the metal roof. This option resolves potential leak issues, can include a lengthy warranty, and increases the insulation over the property. It can also be installed without removal of the existing roof and exposing the interior of the building to the environment.
To discuss more details and pricing for these options to address the challenges of your old metal roof, please contact Weather today. Our staff will provide you with the information needed to make a wise choice and investment in your commercial property’s roof.
