Corrugated Steel Roofs
There are many issues and common problems that can exist with corrugated steel roofs. Here is a look:
- Fixing screws or nails that have become loose and can cause leaks
- Ridge or hip flashings becoming loose
- Flashings to verges becoming loose
- Roof sheets rusting
Many things can indicate roof fixings that have become loose. First, there will be damp patches on the ceiling panels. Try tightening or replacing the roofing screws or nails as soon as possible to avoid extensive and costly damage to the ceilings.
There will also be similar indications if ridge, hip, or verge flashings become loose. Tighten or replace the roof screws and nails as soon as possible. Also, if roof nails do have to be removed, use a claw hammer supported on a piece of timber that is shaped to fit into the sheet corrugations. This will spread out the load and stop the sheet damage.
Always make sure to secure fixings to roof sheets through the top of the corrugations. Also, always use roofing screws and plastic washers if they are available. If plastic washers are not available, you can always use roofing nails with a twisted shank and a felt washer under a metal washer.
If corrugated sheet roofs start to rust, their life can be extended by painting them. Before painting, brush off any loose dirt and rust using a steel brush. When galvanized roof sheets are in good condition are painted, use a special self-etching primer to make sure the paint does not peel off over time. However, if the sheets have rusted, make sure you use a red-oxide metal primer with two coats of gloss paint. Using a light-colored paint will reflect the heat.
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4-3. Why should you use a light-colored paint on a steel roof?
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