How To Check For Leaky Screws On Your Metal Roof And Repairs That May Be Needed
If your metal roof is leaking, the problem might be with a screw. Metal roof panels are held to the roof with screws that have plastic or rubber washers. This system usually forms a watertight seal that keeps rain out, but if a problem develops with a screw, rain might leak through. Here's how to monitor problems with metal roofing screws and the repairs that could be needed.
How To Check The Screws On Your Metal Roof
Start by looking inside your attic for drips when it's raining. You might also check when it's sunny to look for areas where light shines through because a screw is missing. The top of your roof should be checked too, and you may want to hire a roofer to do that for you so they can make repairs as they go.
A roofer can check for missing screws, damaged washers, screws that are loose, and screws that were put in at an odd angle. The roofer might also press on the screws to make sure they are attached to a wood support. The roofer also takes note of rust and verifies the right type of screws were used when previous repairs were done.
How To Repair Metal Roofing Screw Leaks
After the roofing repair contractor has checked the screws and marked the ones that need to be repaired, the process for repairs is fairly simple. The old screws and old washers are removed and new ones installed. In some cases, the screw may be tightened rather than replaced if the washer is still good.
Rubber and plastic washers wear down quicker than metal screws, so as your metal roof gets older, your roof could need more frequent repairs because of worn-out washers.
If the screw is rusted, the rust has to be removed from the roofing after pulling out the screw. This might be done with a wire brush. Once the rust is gone, and the new screw is in place, the area might be painted with a rust inhibitor before being sealed.
The roofer will probably seal all new screws, and they may also paint over the area so the repairs blend in with the roof. Sealing protects the screws from leaking and also protects the washers from UV damage.
While replacing screws on a metal roof is a simple roofing repair, it requires some skill and experience. Choosing the right screws is important, and installing the screws so they aren't too tight or too loose is also essential for getting a good seal that keeps out rain.