Tag: metal roof repair

Repairing Holes Metal Roof

Can Holes Be Repaired In Metal Roofing Systems?

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Repairing Holes Metal Roof

When they are properly installed, metal roofs boast the longest lifespan of any roofing material on the market. While most roofs may last up to 30 years, metal roofs can last up to 100! But longevity is not to be mistaken with indestructibility. Harsh weather conditions, much like the kind we experience in Canada, can take its toll on even the strongest roof. So what do you do when that toll results in one, or several, holes on your metal roof? Let’s talk about how holes can be repaired in metal roofing systems!

Can Holes Be Repaired In Metal Roofing Systems?

The short answer – yes! The longer answer is that how successful that repair is ultimately depends on a couple factors.

  • The material used to patch the hole should be as close to the original material as possible to ensure similar expansion and contraction rates. This will help prevent stressing the patch area.
  • The weather the day of can also result in contraction and expansion of the patch area. This can result in splitting, cracking, and eventually, failure of the repair. 

How To Repair Holes In Metal Roofs

Whether you’re a DIYer or simply interested in the process, this is how we would recommend repairing a hole in your metal roof.

  1. Clean The Repair Area. Before beginning any metal roofing repair project, the repair area must be thoroughly cleaned, including the surface and the surrounding areas. If the hole in your roof was caused by rust, the, rust must be removed entirely. Alternatively, fallen branches or trees may be the cause of the damage. No matter how the damage occurred, it must be cleaned off entirely before repair can occur. 
  2. Scuff The Metal. Once the metal is clean, a wire brush should be used to scuff the repair area. These scuffs will help the sealant bond fully to the metal of the repair area.
  3. Measure Repair Area & Cut Material. After measuring the repair area, cut the panel at least 2 inches past the edges of the repair area. Once it has been cut and fit, round the edges to prevent sharp corners from catching snow or ice. 
  4. Install The Patch For Repair. Using a color-matched urethane sealant, apply the metal patch to the area that needs repair. Don’t be shy! You want to avoid gaps around the patch. Then, firmly press the patch over the damaged areas until the sealant squeezes from the edges of the patch.
  5. Fully Secure The Patch. Once the patch has been put in place, use pan-head sheet metal screws to fully secure the patch to the roof. Lastly, use a putty knife to remove any sealant coming from the edge of the patch. Note, it typically takes a week for the sealant to cure entirely.

Need to repair your metal roof? Contact us at info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com or 1.855.838.9393 to see if we have a panel that’s right for you.

Hole Repair In Metal Roof

Can a Hole in a Metal Roof Be Repaired?

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Your metal roof panels have an expected lifespan of 50 to 100 years – a shelf life that is unrivaled in the roofing material industry. But like most materials which are consistently exposed to weather and the elements, metal roofs eventually require maintenance and repair. Over time you may find yourself dealing with deterioration, rust, or unforeseen accidents such as a branch falling on your roof. If you find yourself dealing with a hole in your metal roofing, rest assured that this problem IS fixable! When done properly, repairs can last as long as the roof system itself. To ensure a job well done, our experienced team of professionals have put together a step by step process for repairing holes in your metal roof yourself.

Prior To Beginning Repairs

Underlying structural issues can be indicated by a hole in the system. Be sure to complete a thorough under-deck safety review and roof analysis before attempting repairs. You should also be sure to match the patching material with your existing metal roof to prevent cracking and splitting. Using the same materials will ensure the panels have the same rate of contraction and expansion, avoiding stress on the repair site.

Pre-Clean The Repair Area Before Scuffing

The first step to any good repair is cleaning the area with a cleaner that a residue free cleaner.  After the panels are free from dirt, film, or algae growth, use a wire brush to scuff the repair area. This will help the sealant bond to the metal. Make sure to avoid scuffing other areas of the roof, as this removes the protective coating from the panel’s surface.

Measure, Cut, Round

You will need to measure the repair area so the patch can easily cover the hole as well as overlap 2” in all directions. After the sheet metal patch has been cut, round the corners with a file or emery cloth. This prevents corners from catching snow, ice, or other debris which can damage the structural integrity of the repair.

Install The Patch

Liberally apply a urethane sealant to the surface of the panel being repaired, leaving no gaps. Press the patch over the damaged area, being sure to squeeze sealant from the edge of the patch along all sides. If there is an area without sealant, moisture can penetrate under the patch. Secure the patch into place using pan-head sheet metal screws. The screws should be placed 1″ inside the patch from the edge, and every 3-4″ around.

We hope you found our tips for repairing holes in metal roofing useful. For more DIY tips, contact our qualified team of professionals at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.