Metal roofing can be a great option due to its durability, energy efficiency benefits, and especially its cost-effectiveness long term. According to WBDG, metal roofs can last over 30 years with minimal maintenance. However, there are a few things you want to avoid when installing the metal roof to get the full benefits.

Oil Canning

Oil canning is a common problem that occurs for a variety of reasons and causes warps and bending in the metal. Talk to your roofing company to figure out the best methods to protect your roof from oil canning. You can have the roofers install a thicker metal or install the roof over a flat roof deck. You can also choose a less glossy finish to reduce reflectivity, which is one of the causes of oil canning.

Scratches

Metal roofs are also susceptible to scratches and scuffing, especially during the installation when roofers are walking over them with tools and coils. Make sure to inspect the roof carefully as it's being installed to catch these scrapes. Most can be easily repaired, but if it's deep enough then that metal panel needs to be replaced.

Leaking

Leaking is a problem that all roofing contractors need to take measures to prevent. Metal roofs are much less susceptible to this problem than shingled roofs, but it still happens. Loose fasteners, seals, and seams can all lead to leaking. It's common for failed flashing to be the cause, too. Flashing is an added material that prevents water from getting in around chimneys, pipes, etc., and if the roofer doesn't install them properly, they can leak.

Corrosion

Corrosion can be avoided for decades with metal roofing, but will happen at some point. To prevent it from occurring early on, make sure the roofers are using high-quality coatings for protection. A common cause of corrosion is dissimilar metals being used together, as some metals can cause negative reactions with one another. Do your research on the most incompatible metals, and discuss all of the elements of the roof with your contractor to make sure they don't meet.

Avoiding these issues and other installation errors will come down to choosing the right roofing company for your project. Make sure the contractor you hire has plenty of experience and is properly licensed and insured. Discuss the project in detail with them to make sure they can properly explain and address any issues that may come up. See if they have connections to reputable manufacturers so that you will get the highest quality materials. Speak with family and friends for referrals, and do your research online to compare reviews for different contractors.

Investing in a metal roof is a great decision due to its protection, longevity, and cost-effectiveness. There are still problems that can occur, but if you hire a professional and experienced contractor, then tackling issues will be a breeze. Contact Rainguard Roofing and Guttering to get a roofing company that will provide you with the quality and communication you're looking for.