When to Replace Metal Roof Materials And Make it Last in Austin, TX

Metal roofing is known for its long-lasting durability. Still, like other roofing methods, its longevity depends on various external and environmental factors. The possibility of only having to think about replacing your metal roof after 70 years of reliable protection is out there, but there are a few outside factors that need to be taken into account.

The weather will have one of the most significant impacts on your metal roof’s life expectancy. Metal is a durable and long-lasting material, but not immune to environmental factors. Even though it stands up well against harsh conditions like Austin windstorms, heavy rain, and occasionally snow, conditions like those still cause natural wear and tear, reducing efficiency. It is important to remember that metal roofing is not all the same. Different metal materials withstand some weather conditions better than others, so finding the right metals for your local climate makes a huge difference in the long term.

Many people are attracted to metal roofing because of how little maintenance it needs. Still, it requires occasional upkeep to stay solid and functional for decades. For example, routine inspections help ensure the metal panels perform their best. Inspections allow you to check for damaged hardware, rust, or peeling paint and catch minor issues before they become costly.

The installation process is the main factor in determining the longevity of your metal roof. Poor installation could cause you to have to replace your metal roof more quickly. This is because it introduces the opportunity for roof leaks, cracks, misalignment, and other minor but costly mistakes that will shorten the life of your roof.

Metal responds differently to various weather conditions. When it interacts with water molecules, the material expands and contracts. Over time, this movement causes separation between panels as the screws loosen.

Sealants offer additional water damage protection and seal-off spaces in the seams or around the edges of a rooftop. While you should only need to replace your metal roof every 50-100 years, the sealant, which acts as an added layer of protection, lasts only 20. Certain weather conditions cause it to break down sooner, but replacing it when necessary is essential in protecting your metal roof long-term.

Your metal roof will be coated with an anti-rust and corrosion sealant if properly installed. Finding rust and corrosion indicates that due to the age of your roof, you may need a fresh layer of sealant. It may also be an indication of a chemical reaction occurring due to contact between dissimilar metals. Either way, you should contact a reliable contractor at Reliable Roofing as soon as possible because once there is a significant level of rust, the entire roof will need replacing.

Paint acts as a waterproofing agent. It is an additional layer of protection against rain and humidity. However, it is still vulnerable to fluctuating temperatures and falling debris. If you find chipped, faded, or thinned paint, your metal roof is potentially at risk of rust and corrosion because the damage has exposed your metal to the elements and left it without protection. This would be another time you would need to contact a roofing professional.

Metal roofs can last a minimum of 20 years longer than the maximum lifespan of other materials. They can also withstand winds up to 140 mph. Additionally, they require less maintenance and are impact resistant depending on the product you choose.

Traditional shingles are prone to mildew, moss, and fungus, which shortens their lifespan. Metal shingles resist these risks and do a better job of keeping out pests. They are also fire resistant, partly because of the material and underlayment.

Metal roofing actually helps reduce your carbon footprint. They are made of 95% recycled material and are 100% recyclable – which is beneficial since so many asphalt shingles end up getting dumped at the end of their long lifespans. 

Cool metal roofing also maximizes your fuel use, so you are paying less for electricity and minimizing your use of nonrenewable resources. Finally, metal roofs play well with solar energy. The panels are easy to install, the metal helps draw in more sun, and the solar panels provide extra shade, enhancing the cooling effects of your roof.

Switching to a metal roof in Austin, Texas, could also be a wise choice because of its reflectivity and emissivity levels. One reason they are so energy efficient is because they reflect a large portion of the sun’s heat. It is also emissive, which means it cools down quickly. Texas heat lasts most of the year, so a roof that keeps the sun’s heat away and cools off quickly is valuable in a city like Austin – not to mention it may save you up to 30% on air conditioning costs.

Corrosion results from water pooling on the roof, metal panels coming in contact with a dissimilar metal, or damage that leaves raw metal exposed. If left alone, all of these scenarios will cause you to have to replace your metal roof in Austin, TX. Fortunately, you can reduce your risk of rust and corrosion by doing the following:

• Promptly clearing your roof of debris
• Maintaining proper drainage to avoid pooling
• Reapplying waterproof coating anytime you notice the paint chipping, fading, or thinning
• Using rust-resistant metal sheets

Metal roofing punctures easily. This type of damage increases your risk for other problems like leaking and wind damage. Most damage is caused by foot traffic, amateur repairs, poorly maintained trees, and roof installation for things like venting or tv antennas. To avoid tearing:

• Minimize foot traffic.
• Restrict installation work to professionals.
• Keep trees around the house trimmed.

If damage occurs, call a Reliable Roofing expert ASAP before leaking worsens the issues you’re having.

As metal roofing ages, you should expect it to begin fading. Bright colors experience more fading than dark colors, but they will all fade with time. Fading depends on its exposure to sunlight, air pollutants, and how much water the roof encounters. The best way to protect your roof is to choose dark colors and have a professional reapply fresh paint every few years.

Metal can potentially be a loud roofing material– especially if it is not spaced and fastened correctly at installation. However, quality roofing professionals can take measures to adjust the noise level. To ensure solid soundproofing, you should only hire qualified roofing contractors who are familiar with metal roofing materials. You can also:

• Use additional insulation to prevent the sound waves from making it inside.
• Consider quieter roofing profiles like standing seam or flat. 
• Use high-quality underlayment to increase the sound barrier.