If you want a new roof on your business that will last a long time, then it is wise to invest in a steel roof. Galvanized steel roofs can last well over 50 or 60 years, and the coating placed over the metal is what keeps the roof in good shape for an extended period of time. This coating is typically formed out of a zinc barrier, a primer, and a layer of paint. The paint is typically baked onto the steel. The baking and layering process helps to keep the steel fully protected. However, the coating can be scratched or scraped. This will leave the steel exposed and corrosion is likely to start building. If you want to prevent corrosion, then there are a few things you can do to keep scratches from appearing on the roof.
Trim Tree Branches
Trees can easily scrape against your roof during a wind storm, and branches can fall onto your roof and cause damage. To prevent this sort of issue, make sure to trim tree branches away from your roof. You will want to start your trimming by cutting away branches that come into direct contact with your business's roof and that sit about a foot or two above it. You may need to go beyond this height to trim trees that are likely to release broken branches on your roof. Trees that have a low resistance to wind and are not elastic will need more extensive trimming. Red cedar, spruce, oak, Chinese elm, pecan, pear, and poplar trees are some of the tree types that are likely to leave broken branches on your roof. If you have one of these trees, then you will want to cut back any branches that hang over your roof, regardless of the height.
To start the trimming process, place a ladder against the roof that is about three or feet higher than the roof edge. Carry a pair of pole pruners or a lopper up on the ladder. Start at the lowest branch and use the tool to cut the branch as far as your arm can comfortably reach. Let the branch fall to the ground and move up to the next branch. Once you can no longer reach the branches, climb down the ladder and place the ladder against the tree. Use your trimming tool to cut the rest of the branches close to the tree trunk. If you have successfully removed the branches hanging over your roof, then make sure to check for growth next year and trim again. If the tree requires more trimming due to areas you cannot reach or if the tree is a weak variety, then contact a tree trimming expert. This professional will be able to use a cherry picker to reach the higher tree branches.
During the tree trimming process, make sure to stay off the top of the roof. You may cause scratches to form in the steel roof paint by scraping debris along the surface with your shoes.
Clean Gently
While rain and snow are likely to rinse most of the debris from your roof, some debris may remain. It is wise to clear away debris like hard pieces of dirt, bark, and wood bits to keep them from scraping the roof's surface. However, you do not want to get out the pressure washer to clear off the roof. Pressure washers are typically used to strip off paint from metal surfaces. Instead, use your regular garden hose. Remove loose debris first with an extendable window washing brush. A brush with a microfiber head will work well for this purpose. Afterwards, climb a ladder with your hose and gently rinse the steel by spraying over the top of the roof. Allow the water to fall and cascade down on the steel. Do not spray water directly at seams or around the edges. You may cause water to shoot underneath the roof and this can cause a leaking issue.
If the water does not remove all the debris, then place a bit of warm water in a bucket with a few squirts of dish soap. Use the microfiber end of the window washing brush to gently scrub the roof. Rinse with your hose to clear the soap and debris away. Complete this entire cleaning process about once or twice a year to keep the roof clean.
For help with bigger roof problems or maintenance, contact a company like Upson Company.
