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Bridger Steel Project News, Highlights & Helpful Tips

Preventative Maintenance for Metal Panels

[fa icon="calendar"] 05/25/2021 / by Kaylee Beattie

One of steel’s most appealing qualities is its low maintenance. Unlike other materials, metal panels don’t require annual sealing like wood or annual pressure washing like vinyl. Steel doesn’t absorb heat or moisture, so you also don’t need to worry about mold or fungus growth. However, there are a few steps you can take in terms of preventative maintenance in order to even further extend the lifespan of your metal panels.

Residential Nail Strip Metal Panel Siding

Perform Routine Inspections

One of the easiest ways to ensure your metal panels are performing their best is to complete routine inspections. The amount of times you should inspect your metal panels can depend a lot on the environment you live in and the amount of stress your panels are under. For example, if you live in high-wind or high-precipitation climates, you may want to look at your panels a few times a year, whereas milder climates may only need a once-a-year inspection.

When inspecting your panels, you want to look for any loose or damaged fasteners/hardware, any chipping paint, rust spots, or other possible damages. Performing routine inspections can help you catch small issues before they turn into big, costly issues. 

Clear Off Debris & Other Items 

If you have tree branches touching your metal roofing or siding, be sure to clip them back so nothing is touching your panels. For roofing, it’s also important to clear off any leaves or other debris laying on top of the panels. You want to make sure your panels are not being scratched, scuffed, or scraped by any items that may cause damage. 

For Roofs, Clean Gutters & Drains

Especially important for metal roofing, be sure to give your drains and gutters a good cleaning each year. They are a good spot for debris build up, which can lead to clogs. Making sure to give them a good cleaning each year can help you avoid issues like water getting under your panels or corrosion caused by standing water.  Make sure if you need to get on top of your roof, you follow all the recommended safety precautions.

If Needed, Clean Your Panels

Unlike other materials, metal panels don’t promote mold or fungus growth, therefore they usually don’t need to be deep cleaned. However, if you notice a problem spot or simply want to clean up your metal panels to make them look a little better, you can clean them. We never recommend power washing your panels or using harsh chemicals/products on them. Instead, opt for a garden hose to spray them down, followed by a light cleaning solution (usually ¼ cup of a mild dish soap or car washing soap with a gallon of water), and rinse again. You can read more about exactly how to clean your metal panels here. We also recommend talking to a Product Specialist before putting any tips of chemical or cleaner on your panels to ensure you don't damage them.

Benefits of Performing Preventative Maintenance

So, why should you be doing preventative maintenance on your metal panels? Here’s a few good reasons:

  • Extend Lifespan of Panels — Keeping your metal panels in tip-top shape is the best way to help them reach their full lifespan, and last even longer than predicted in some cases. Most metal panels will last between 40-70 years. Doing routine maintenance can help you make sure your panels, whether for roofing, siding, fencing, or accents, last as long as possible.
  • Address Potential Problems — Doing preventative maintenance on your metal panels can help you catch small problems early on before they become big issues. Identifying potential issues like dents, scuffs, leaking, etc. before they become a major concern is another added benefit of doing preventive maintenance.
  • Keep Panels in Their Best Shape — No one wants their roof, siding, fence, or accents to look bad. Keeping up with routine, preventative maintenance can help keep your metal panels looking and performing their best. Ensuring your panels are free of dirt, debris, and damages keeps them looking as stunning as they did on day one.  

The low maintenance of metal panels continues to be an advantage that most homeowners, architects, and contractors love. Without having to worry about costly annual maintenance like sealing and power washing, metal panels continue to be a popular choice for all types of builds. 

If you’re interested in getting a quote for your next metal roofing, siding, accent, or fencing project, get in touch with our team today. Our expert Product Specialists can help you find the perfect panel profile, gauge, and color/finish specific to your project’s needs. Start the process today by filling out our Get a Quote form or by contacting us.

Topics: DIY, Home Advice

Kaylee Beattie

Written by Kaylee Beattie