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5 Common Roof Problems and Issues
Resolve common roof problems, from rust and corrosion, leaks and water damage, UV damage and thermal expansion to biological growth.
There are a number of ways that a roof can become damaged. Early detection of issues and a preventative approach will ensure that cost-effective repairs can be carried out, instead of a costly roof replacement. In this article, we share some practical solutions for common roof problems and issues, so you can protect your roof and extend its lifespan.
1. Rust and Corrosion on Metal Roofs
Rust and corrosion can be caused by a few factors. Within inland areas, the usual reason is due to prolonged exposure to rain or condensation. However, in coastal areas, salt is an additional cause of corrosion and can significantly weaken metal roofs.
Most metal roof sheets are produced with a prefabricated layer, either through galvanisation or a coating such as Plastisol. Impact damage, weathering and continual exposure to water and salt can weaken roof panels, leading to aesthetic damage and structural degradation.
If you discover areas of rust on a metal roof sheet or at the cut edges, it’s essential to apply a treatment before the corrosion can spread any further. An anti-corrosion roof coating such as Giromax® Edgecoat, can both treat and encapsulate the substrate for full protection. Regular cleaning and the application of a protective sealant will prevent further rusting and help to maintain the structural integrity of the overall roof.
2. Leaks and Water Damage
Water damage and leaks can occur due to a variety of reasons, from worn materials to weak flashing and the impact of heavy rainfall. Wherever there’s a vulnerability on a rooftop, there’s a risk of a water leak. Therefore, it’s important to identify the source of the problem before the issue escalates and becomes an expensive roof repair.
Look for signs of water damage, including stains inside the building, as well as mildew and mould growth on ceilings and walls. Inspect stock or equipment to see if there are any signs of damp. Listen carefully to see if you can hear dripping water, either during rainfall or you could carry out a hose test.
Giromax® waterproof roof coatings enable you to carry out a quick and professional roof repair without the need to replace the entire roof. By recoating the substrate with a tough, durable, water-resistant coating, you can protect the roof from water damage.
3. UV Damage and Thermal Expansion
Direct sunlight can cause the roof material to weaken, fade, and crack over time. Apart from the aesthetic effect of UV rays, the weakened coating will reduce the level of protection for the substrate underneath. Thermal expansion occurs when the temperature of the metal heats up, which is different from the ambient air temperature. This can cause movement in metal roof sheets, such as warping, and when the sheet cools down, the material contracts.
In extreme temperatures, thermal expansion and contraction can also affect the screws used to affix the metal sheets. They can be pulled from the sheeting, resulting in holes that can be exposed to corrosion. Without adequate protection, this can result in a shorter lifespan for the roof, along with an increased susceptibility to leaks.
UV-resistant coatings can help to protect a rooftop from sun exposure, and they can also help to reduce thermal stress. Carry out seasonal inspections to check the integrity of existing roof coatings. Take preventative measures such as reapplying roof coatings to ensure UV ray protection as needed for ongoing protection.
4. Impact Damage to Roof Sheets and Tiles
Weather impact can cause serious damage to different types of roof substrate, even profiled metal roofing sheets. Strong winds, heavy rain and hailstorms can take their toll on a rooftop, especially on more vulnerable areas, such as the roofline, skylights and vents. Over time, this can cause roof materials to deteriorate and age prematurely.
In high winds, any loose seals, bolts and fixings can cause roof sheets and tiles to dislodge, crack or warp. Also, debris such as branches can be thrown from nearby trees, which can cause damage to the roof and an extra weight burden.
To avoid replacement of metal roof sheets or asbestos cement tiles, carry out regular inspections and repairs as soon as possible. Clip any trees surrounding the building to minimise any damage from branches. By applying a protective roof coating designed for durability, you can protect your roof from impact damage caused by storms.
5. Moss, Algae, and Biological Growth
Organic matter such as moss, algae and lichen can quickly spread across an entire rooftop if left unchecked. Biological growth can lead to material degradation in different ways. Moss can grow underneath roof sheets and tiles, creating gaps where water can seep in, causing leaks. It can also freeze and expand in frosty conditions. When moss grows in between asbestos cement roof tiles, this can cause cracking, affecting the surface integrity of the tiles.
When left to grow in guttering systems, plant matter can obstruct roof drainage points and downpipes. This can cause water to pool and overflow onto other areas of the roof and lower parts of the building. Increased water retention can cause gutters to bow and break.
It’s important to kill any areas of moss or micro root on a rooftop. Use a safe fungicidal solution to remove any biological growth. Apply a roof coating for long-term prevention.
Conclusion
As a rooftop is constantly exposed to the elements, it requires regular inspections and maintenance to ensure small issues don’t become big problems. By carrying out repairs and applying a protective coating to your roof, you can avoid the cost of a full roof replacement.
Giromax® Roofcoat for metal roofing and asbestos cement roofs is a highly resilient coating, protecting against extreme weather conditions and temperatures. Specially formulated by our own technical team, our innovative roof coatings offer high resistance to dirt and impact.
For guidance on resolving common roof problems or for more information on our protective roof coatings, call 01455 558969 or email: sales.orders@giromax.co.uk
Sources:
https://www.brsusa.com/blog/designing-metal-roofs-thermal-movement
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5 Common Roof Problems and Issues
Managing Director
There are a number of ways that a roof can become damaged. Early detection of issues and a preventative approach will ensure that cost-effective repairs can be carried out, instead of a costly roof replacement. In this article, we share some practical solutions for common roof problems and issues, so you can protect your roof and extend its lifespan.
