As someone who chose a metal roof for the house because you expected low maintenance costs, you might be surprised to notice water trickling into living spaces. Why might your metal roof have leaks?

1-Screw Problems

Sometimes, the problem is as simple as a screw that has become loose or was improperly driven. Usually, the screwheads for metal roof screws are fashioned with a rubber washer that's driven into the metal panels. The compressed washer is supposed to be a barrier that blocks water. When screws get loose, that washer isn't snugly in place, meaning water can infiltrate the roof. If mistakes were made where screws weren't driven in enough, the rubber washer can't stop water.  Even if screws seem like they're tightly attached, they could be overdriven; if that happens and the screwhead is too deeply pushed into the metal, leaks could still be possible. Professionals can examine screws and locate any trouble related to them.

2-Bad Flashing

The HVAC unit, your skylight, or other roof equipment and features could be related to leaks. That's because the flashing or stripping meant to block leaks could have gotten loose. If your flashing is made of rubber, sun exposure can affect it and wear it down, allowing leaks. The rubber may need to be replaced with metal, or a professional might need to seal any gaps properly.

3-Inadequate Sealing

If you've tried to correct problems yourself in the past with sealant, you might have been creating leak-causing problems without knowing it. For instance, if you attempted to re-seal trimming or reinforce flashing to the roof, you may have used a regular silicone sealant. However, some silicone products aren't made for use with metal, which can contract and expand throughout days or weeks. The sealant can't stick to the metal properly because it can't handle that activity, and water may get in. For that reason, only use sealants that specifically say that they're made for metal surfaces and roofs.

Sealant mistakes can also sometimes lead to so-called "capillary draw". A phenomenon that happens at times when two metal panels are joined together, the term "capillary draw" describes what occurs when water moves upslope at the gap or seam between two metal panels joined together and gets underneath them.

After considering each possible reason for leaking and some troubleshooting, it might be time to consult professionals. Metal roof repair is quickly done, and the contractor can explain any further maintenance required. For more information, contact a local roofing company like Acoma Roofing, Inc.