Do metal roofs need maintenance?
Short answer. Yes, though far less than most roofs. A metal roof needs a yearly check of fasteners and their washers, sealant at laps and penetrations, flashing and trim, debris in valleys and gutters, and the paint finish, plus prompt touch-up of scratches before rust starts.
Yearly checklist
- Fasteners: screws that have backed out or have cracked, flattened washers, especially on exposed fastener panels.
- Sealant: at pipe flashings, laps, ridge and trim joints. Sealants age faster than the metal.
- Flashing and trim: loose, bent or separated pieces at walls, chimneys and edges.
- Debris: leaves and pine needles piled in valleys or against curbs hold moisture and can start corrosion.
- Gutters: clogged gutters back water up under the panel ends.
- Finish: chalking, fading, scratches or rust spots. Touch up small scratches with the maker's matching paint.
- Contact with other materials: copper runoff, treated lumber and wet debris can corrode some metal finishes.
- Trees: branches that rub the roof wear through the finish.
After storms
Look for dents, which are usually cosmetic, and for lifted trim or panels, which are not. Check the attic for water.
Cleaning
Wash gently with a mild detergent, a soft brush and a low-pressure rinse. Avoid abrasive pads, harsh solvents and anything the panel maker does not approve, since they can damage the finish.
What not to do
Walk on it only when necessary, and only on the flats over supports; metal dents and is slick. For a broader seasonal routine, see our Georgia roof maintenance checklist, and for metal choices, metal roofing in Georgia.