Metal roofs are durable, energy-efficient, and long-lasting, but they are not immune to scratches and scuffs that affect their appearance and performance. These blemishes can occur during installation, and maintenance or due to environmental factors such as hail, debris, or foot traffic.
What Causes Scratches and Scuffs?
Scratches and scuffs are different types of damage that can occur on metal roofs. Scratches are linear marks that expose the bare metal underneath the paint or coating, while scuffs are superficial marks that do not penetrate the coating but may dull or discolor it.
Surface scratches are minor scratches that only affect the top layer of the coating. Deep gouges are more severe scratches that reach the metal substrate and may compromise its corrosion resistance.
What Causes Metal Roof Scratches?
Improper maintenance practices or equipment can lead to the metal being scratched by abrasive cleaners, brushes, or power washers. Environmental factors include hail, wind-blown debris, tree branches, and animals, which can cause the metal to be dented, punctured, or scraped by external objects. Foot traffic on the roof can also cause the metal to be scratched.
How to Prevent Scratches and Scuffs on Metal Roofs?
The best way to prevent scratches on metal roofs is to follow proper handling, installation, and maintenance guidelines from the manufacturer or supplier of the metal roofing system. Use edge guards, spacers, padding, or protective film to protect the edges and surfaces of metal panels or coils during storage and transportation.
Choose manufacturer-recommended fasteners, sealants, flashings, and accessories that are compatible with the metal roofing system and do not cause galvanic corrosion or mechanical damage. Finally, avoid walking on the roof unless necessary and use walk pads, ladders, or scaffolding to distribute the weight and avoid direct contact with the metal surface.
How to Repair Scratches and Scuffs on Metal Roofs?
If scratches occur on your metal roof, they should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage, such as rusting, peeling, fading, or leaking. The repair method depends on the type and severity of the damage.
For surface scratches that do not expose the bare metal substrate, a simple touch-up paint may be sufficient to restore the appearance and protection of the coating. The touch-up paint should match the color and gloss of the original coating and be applied with a brush or a paint pen according to the manufacturer's instructions.
For deep gouges that expose the bare metal substrate, you may need to hire a roof repair service that will be able to repair or replace metal panels that have become compromised. Then, your metal roof will be fully restored.
