Understanding how to find a leak in a metal roof is an important skill. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as an invulnerable roof. Metal is a durable and reliable roofing material that can succumb to rain, snow, and moisture damage.
It would be wise to have your metal roof checked out annually. You should also keep an eye out yourself for tell-tale signs of roof damage.
You should first know that it pays to be vigilant. A small leak right now might be easy and affordable to fix, but if you leave it alone too long, it could cost you thousands of dollars down the line.
While metal roofs are known to last for decades, you still have to keep up with maintenance. So don’t fall into the trap of thinking that your metal roof will never spring a leak. Instead, read on as we tell you how to find a leak in a metal roof so you can prevent a significant roofing catastrophe.
Where Do Metal Leaks Originate?
The first step toward finding a metal roof leak is knowing where to look. Let’s take a moment to review some of the potentially problematic areas of your metal roof:
Knowing where to look can help you identify the origin of your metal roof leaks and swiftly address the problem.
The Valleys
The valleys of your metal roof are where panels meet and seams are created. It is likely to see corrosion or wear in these vulnerable spots, so this is the first place you’ll want to look. Keep an eye out for tears in the paneling, the seams, or if there is any corrosion.
While the damage may not look significant, it could soon develop into a leak if it’s in vulnerable spots like the valleys of your roof.
Roofing Nails
You will generally deal with aluminum nails if you have a metal roof. However, if you live in a coastal area or the nails are exposed to chemicals, they can be a liability. So you should pay close attention to the nails and screws used to hold down your metal roofing.
Look for signs of rust and discoloration. You should also keep an eye out for loose screws and nails. It can become a major issue when metal roof screws are leaking. You may be able to seal up the holes to protect the roof from water damage.
Breaks in the Roof Line
A break in the roof line refers to any protrusion from the shingles or paneling, including chimneys, vents, skylights, HVAC installations, etc. Anything installed on the roof that isn’t actual roofing material is a break.
Check around the base of these protrusions where they meet the actual roof material. Make sure that the flashing is intact and that there is no sign of deterioration. If the flashing has become rusted, broken, or otherwise compromised, it should be replaced as soon as possible.
Any breaks in the roof line due to these protrusions will likely cause a leak.
The Attic
Your attic plays an essential role in your roofing system. When adequately vented, it prevents the risk of ice dams and moisture damage from inside the structure. However, when improperly ventilated, it could cause moisture damage. So check your attic regularly.
Also, check to ensure that the insulation is in good condition and that none is missing. Look for streaks on the insulation bays and studs. Any discoloration in the wood could be a sign of a leak. If it feels overly humid or stuffy in your attic, you should look into improving ventilation. An attic fan may also be able to help.
Signs of Metal Roof Leaks
Along with knowing where to look for leaks in your metal roofing system, you should also know the signals that indicate you already have a leak. Some of the most common signs of metal roof leaks include:
Discoloration on the Walls or Ceiling
You can start by checking out your interior spaces. If you see streaky discolorations on your walls, ceiling, or even your floorboards, it could indicate that your roof is leaking. While these may also be signs of a plumbing leak, it would be wise to have your roof checked out to be sure.
Loose Fasteners
If you see that your roof fasteners have been displaced, raised, or become loose, the problem could be water damage. Water damage will cause the underlayment to become warped and deformed, leading to fastener issues.
Roof Sagging
If your metal roof allows water to seep through the decking, it could cause your ceilings to start sagging. Take a look at the ceilings under your attic or roof. You could be dealing with a roof leak if you notice that they look bulging, misshaped, or sagging.
Rust Stains
While most metal roofing panels and shingles can be treated with an anti-corrosion finish or paint, there is only so much these protective layers can do. In addition, if there is a structural leak, you will still likely see rust stains on the roof itself.
These may look like streaky stains that run down your roof toward the gutters. If you are seeing rust on your metal roof, you must have it checked out by a professional as soon as possible.
Metal Roofing Leak Tips
If you are ever in doubt, it’s always best to call a professional. Unfortunately, quick fixes rarely prevent severe damage from occurring, even if it delays the inevitable. However, some essential tips you can follow will help shore up your metal roof.
Use Magic Tape
For instance, if you are dealing with corrosion in the valleys or the flashing of your roof, you may be able to use self-vulcanizing tape (sometimes referred to as self-amalgamating or magic tape) to seal up the damage.
Of course, this shouldn’t be viewed as a permanent fix, and it will only be a viable option if the corrosion or damage is minimal. So even after applying the tape, you should check your roof.
Apply Caulk
If it seems that there might be leak potential around the venting of your roof, you may be able to shore up the defenses by applying caulk to the perimeter. However, remember that you want to seal the seams where the vent meets your roof line.
Use a Drill
If you are dealing with raised nails or roofing screws, you may be able to screw them back into place with a drill. You can also look into replacing the insulation in the attic.
