Did you know that metal roofs are capable of lasting for fifty years or more?
A metal roof is a durable and long-lasting choice for a business. However, even the best metal roofs can develop leaks, especially during heavy rain or severe weather.
If you know what to do when your metal roof leaks in heavy rain, it will be easier for you to take action to solve the problem. To help you out, we\’ve written a guide that tells you everything you need to know.
Keep reading if you want to find out more.
Understand the Causes of Leaks in Metal Roofs
Finding the source of a leak in a metal roof can be a challenging task. This is especially the case for large industrial or commercial warehouses.
The first step in finding the source of a leak is to identify the location where the water is entering the building. This can often be done by looking for water stains or pooling on the ceiling or walls.
After you have done this, you\’ll then need to carefully inspect the metal roof and surrounding structures for signs of damage or wear.
Look for holes, cracks, or other openings in the metal panels or flashing. Check the seams, valleys, and other joints in the roof for any signs of separation or damage.
It\’s also a good idea to inspect the gutters and downspouts for any blockages or damage that may be causing water to back up onto the roof.
In some cases, the leak may be caused by a problem with the drainage system rather than the roof itself.
Clear Away Important Items
Make sure to move important items that may be at risk of getting damaged from the leak. This can include documents, electronics, machinery, or artwork.
If the leak is severe or the water is pooling on the floor, you may need to move these items to a higher location or place them in storage to keep them safe.
In some cases, you might need to shut off power to certain areas of the building. This will prevent electrical fires or other hazards.
Figure Out the Why Your Metal Roof Is Leaking
One common cause of water damage is a past leak that was not properly repaired by the original contractor. If a leak is not repaired correctly, it can continue to cause problems long after the initial repair was made.
For example, if the contractor only patched the hole in the roof rather than replacing the damaged panel or flashing, the patch may eventually fail and the leak will reoccur.
To identify the entry point for water damage, you will need to carefully inspect the interior of the building. Look closely for any signs of water stains, discoloration, or damage.
These may include dark spots on the ceiling, peeling paint, or warping of the wood or drywall. You should also look for any other indicators of a past leak, such as patches or repairs to the ceiling or walls.
If you suspect that a past leak may be the cause of your current water damage, it\’s important to hire a professional to assess the situation and provide a repair plan.
A professional contractor will have the experience and expertise to accurately locate and fix the problem. They will be able to ensure that your metal roof is fully repaired and secure.
Inform Your Insurance Agent That You Have Metal Roof Leaks
Your insurance policy may cover the cost of repairing or replacing the damaged roof and any other structures or belongings that were damaged by the leak.
To make a claim, you will need to provide your insurance agent with details about the damage. This could include the location of the leak, the extent of the damage, and any estimates for repairs.
You should also take photos or videos of the damage to provide to your agent as evidence. Your insurance agent will review your policy and determine what coverage is available for the damages.
They will also provide you with instructions on how to proceed with the claim process and what documentation you will need to provide.
Understand the Pros and Cons of Metal Roofs
If your metal roof is leaking, it\’s important to carefully consider the pros and cons of having this type of commercial roof. Since they tend to be resistant to many types of damage, they can last for several decades.
But if you have an older metal roof that is flat, you might need to spend a lot of time and money on repairs. This is why some people choose to replace their commercial roofs instead of repairing them.
Call a Commercial Roofing Service
A commercial roofing service will have the experience and expertise to accurately locate and fix the problem. They will also be able to provide you with a detailed quote for the repairs.
This means that it will be easy for you to budget for the necessary work. Before hiring a commercial roofing service, make sure to read through the company\’s customer reviews.
Metal Roof Leaks in Heavy Rain: Know What to Do
If your metal roof leaks in heavy rain, it\’s important to know what to do. Make sure to find the source of the leak, clear away important objects, and take action to repair the leak.
Do you need help fixing or restoring your commercial metal roof? If so, keep in mind that Wisconsin Commercial Roofer Services can help you. Don\’t hesitate to check out our services page to find out more!
