Because they are long-lasting and durable, many homeowners prefer metal roofs. However, metal roofs can be prone to rust, especially in areas with high levels of humidity or precipitation. Rust can cause significant damage to roofing materials, so it is important to address the issue as soon as it arises. There are several ways homeowners can take to get rid of rust and protect their roofing material from future corrosion.
Rust is not always easy to spot on roofs, especially if the roofing material is dark in colour. However, there are a few indications that homeowners may look for to determine if their roof is rusted. One common sign is water staining on the roofing material. If you see any discolouration or streaks on your roof, it's a good idea to investigate further.
Another way to tell if rust is present on your roof is by looking for flakes or powder near gutters or downspouts. This is a sure sign that rust is present and should be addressed as soon as possible.
So, what causes rust on roofs? A variety of factors cause the development of rust on roofing materials. One common cause is exposure to moisture. If your roof is constantly exposed to wet weather, it's more likely to develop rust over time. Additionally, salt air can also speed up the rusting process. This is why it's important to take extra care of roofs in coastal areas.
Solution
If rust has already formed on the roof, here are five ways to remove it:
1. Scrub the affected area with a wire brush or steel wool
If your roof has rust on it, you can try to get rid of it by scrubbing the area with a wire brush or steel wool. This will remove any loose rust.
2. Apply a rust-inhibiting primer to the affected area
If your roof has rust on it, you can try to inhibit the spread of the rust by applying a rust-inhibiting primer to the affected area.
3. Paint over the affected area with a rust-resistant paint
If your roof has rust on it, you can try to prevent future rust by painting over the affected area with rust-resistant paint to form a barrier between the metal and the air, preventing rust from forming.
4. Replace the affected area with new roofing material
If your roof has rust on it, you may want to consider replacing the affected area with new roofing material. This is often the best solution, as it will prevent the rust from spreading and causing further damage.
5. Hire a professional roofer to remove the rust
If your roof has rust on it, you may want to consider hiring a professional to remove the rust. Since professionals have the expertise and equipment to remove rust safely and effectively, this is typically the best choice.
Prevention
Here are six things homeowners can do to prevent rust from forming on their roofs:
1. Inspect the roof regularly for signs of rust
A regular roof inspection for signs of rust is important. If you see any discolouration or flaking, investigate further to see if rust is present.
2. Keep the roof clean and free of debris
It will help to keep your roof clean and free of debris to prevent moisture from accumulating on the surface of the roof.
3. Apply a rust-inhibiting primer to the roof, following the manufacturer's instructions
It's important to apply a rust-inhibiting primer to the roof. Because rust is an oxidation-induced reaction, adding oil will protect the metal from air contact, which prevents it from forming.
4. Use a coat of paint or sealant
It's important to paint the roof with rust-resistant paint. This will build a barrier between the metal and the air, keeping rust at bay.
5. Replace any damaged or rusty areas of the roof
If you have any damaged or rusty areas on your roof, it's important to replace them. The rust will be prevented from spreading and causing further damage.
6. Hire a professional roofer to inspect the roof
If you're concerned about your roof's condition, it's usually a good idea to hire an expert to inspect it because professionals have the expertise and equipment needed to evaluate the condition of roofs properly.
Rust can cause severe damage to roofs if left untreated. Fortunately, there are several ways homeowners can take to get rid of rust and protect their roofing material from future corrosion. In this blog, we've outlined the best ways to remove rust and prevent it from spreading. If you're concerned about your roof's condition, please call us today at
03 6144 4033. We'll be glad to assist you in assessing the condition of your roof and determining what action is needed.
Email: roofinghobart1@gmail.com
Ph: 03 6144 4033