Metal roofs are a great for their cost effectiveness and durability under predictable weather conditions. However, they do have a few clinks in their armour, making them susceptible to water seepages.
Why Metal Roofs Are Vulnerable to Water Leakages
Metal roofs are structurally vulnerable as they are created by piecing together individual metal panels. Each panel is attached to metal or wood with steel nails, this makes the roof vulnerable to leaks if the panels start to separate.
For starters, rain and moisture can cause both nails and panels to rust over time. At this stage, these components can easily break, leading to gaps forming. Another possibility is that expansion and contraction from heat can also cause the materials to break apart. In both scenarios, a hole is opened up for water to enter your foundation.
Metal roofs are also not the strongest of materials against heavy debris. If your home gets stuck in the middle of a heavy storm, branches from trees around your home may drop onto your roof. Depending on the quality of your metal roof, a puncture or tear may be created.
Other than rain, wind can also cause severe damage to your metal roof. If hit with excess force, your roof’s panels can be pulled apart, thus leading to a large hole forming between panels.
General Roof Water Leakage Weaknesses
The following issues that we cover in this article are not strictly related to metal roofs, but rather can be applied to all roofs.
Firstly, if your metal roof is constructed with poor fall design, then it will be susceptible to water leakages. Good fall design involves having well designed paths that lead rainwater away from your roof in a quick and efficient manner.
Without good fall design, your roof will be exposed to rainwater for excessed periods of time. This increases the possibility of leakages occurring.
Secondly, the operational condition of your drainage points should also be of concern. Every roof requires designated drainage points whereby water can exit from it. However, drainage points are often prone to becoming trapped with foreign debris such as fallen leaves or a build up of sediments.
When this happens, the efficiency of drainage is affected, causing water levels to rise on your roof.
How to Waterproof Your Roof
It is recommended that you engage the services of a professional waterproofing contractor for your roof. Roofs are one of the most exposed surfaces in your home to water, as such its waterproofing systems need to be both sound and lasting.
Waterproofing specialists use industry standard membranes to help waterproof your roof. While these membrane materials could be bought on their own, their application requires know-how and expertise. This is what makes the role of a waterproofing professional so vital for homes.
