Metal Roof Replace or Re-roof
How to determine if you need a New Roof or a Re-roof
Once again you will see water stains on your ceiling, or there will be water coming through your roof in a rainstorm. You will usually have different situations than with a shingle roof. We have noticed a lot of common problems with metal roofs in Central Alberta. First, we will talk about exposed fastener metal roofs (where you can see the screws that hold the metal down). These roofs cause the majority of the issues. One of the most common things causing leaks is improper installation of roof flashing. It’s very common to see installers using caulking or tar to seal up the flashing; this will only cause leaks in a short time because it breaks down in the sun. We use special techniques to install flashing that we have devised from installing metal roofs in the worst climate conditions (Whistler Ski Resort) this will allow your roof to be leak free for the life of the roof.
Another problem that is common with metal roofs is, screwing into wood surface beneath the roof that is to thin, causing the roofs screws to work loose almost immediately, causing leaks all over your ceiling. Another issue can be the previous installer installed the metal roof with no felt underneath. Since all metal roofs sweat, you will get condensation forming underneath making it drip into your insulation. There is one last thing that commonly causes leaks, and that is the expansion of the metal, which will work the screws loose. You will need to replace all the screws with larger screws every 10 to 15 years.
What will determine if you need a new roof or a repair depends on these things…
How old is your roof? If your roof is between 20 to 25 years old for an exposed fastener metal roof, you will be at the end of its lifetime in our experience. If you have a closed fastener metal roof, it is possible to get 50 years out of it providing it has had a correct installation. If it is past its lifespan, chances are you will need a new roof installed.
How much damage does your roof have? If you have minor damage, it might be more cost effective to do a small repair. When there are too many problems on the roof, you have replaced all the screws already, there is no felt, and you have to repair the flashing it might be better to replace the roof and be worry-free.What would be the cost of repairing your roof? Small repairs are often much less expensive than replacement. What are your budgetary and long-term needs? If you can do a simple fix and it can solve the problem, that’s great! If you don’t want to worry about your roof ever again, then a new roof would be in order.
The professionals at Primo Roofing & Exteriors can assist you in making the right decision for your situation. You can give us a call, and we will be happy to help you.
