Causes of Metal Roof Leaks

Metal roofs offer many advantages over other materials, being durable and weather-resistant. They won’t rot, crack, burn, or break. Yet, homeowners still call us wondering why their metal roof might leak.

Here’s what can go wrong and how we can fix it:

Metal Roofing Screws

  • Metal roof screws have a rubber washer at the base, which forms a seal between the panel and the screw. If installed correctly, these washers prevent water from penetrating the roof. However, over time, sealants may need to be inspected and replaced. Only sealants specifically designed for metal roofs should be used, as standard silicone may not adhere well or withstand the roof’s expansion and contraction.
  • It’s usually a good idea to have a roofing professional inspect the sealant in these areas and replace it as needed. Only a sealant designed specifically for metal roofs should be used. Typical silicone caulking doesn’t always adhere to roof surfaces and may not maintain its seal through all the expanding and contracting which can occur with metal roofs.

Curb Flashings

  • It’s fairly common for HVAC units to be installed on a metal roof. In most cases, the HVAC will sit on top of a roof curb, which is a metal structure designed to both support the weight of the unit, and offer a means for connecting the ductwork.
  • The area around a roof curb is one of the most common places for leaks to occur on metal roofs. Flashing should be installed all around the curb, but even if this is done correctly, water can get through over time, especially on the uphill side of the curb. Our roofing experts will check all curb flashing, and replace it if needed.

Seams and Overlaps

  • There will inevitably be seams and places where panels overlap on a metal roof. It’s absolutely crucial for these places to be properly sealed when your roof is first installed. Water can actually be drawn uphill, against gravity, through the forces of adhesion, cohesion, and surface tension.
  • This process is known as capillary action. It can cause a metal roof to leak at its seams even if the overlapping seam is above the underlying panel. To prevent this, we use sealant or butyl tape to seal joints and overlaps. Because roof panels can shift and move over time, we also recommend inspecting these areas regularly to make sure they’re still secure.
  • The first step to fixing leaks in a metal roof is identifying the underlying cause. West Orange Roofing is a team of dedicated roofing experts who’ve had decades of experience fixing metal roofs in Central Florida, and we’re here to help any way we can.

The first step in fixing a metal roof leak is identifying the cause. West Orange Roofing’s expert team has decades of experience repairing metal roofs in Central Florida. If your metal roof needs assessment or replacement, contact West Orange Roofing. With over 46 years of experience, we’ll get the job done right and provide top-notch service for you and your family.

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