How To Deal With Rust On Your Roof

Old-fashioned corrugated iron roofs are distinctly Australian and have been the stuff of folklore. We acquaintance them with shearing sheds, water tanks, outdoor dunnies, and of form, the quintessentially iconic home, the Queenslander. These days, modern metal roofs are the roof-of-selection for many of this state's property owners, because they're flexible, lightweight, and generally cheaper to install and maintain than clay, asphalt, and cement tile roofs. And compared to other roofing materials, metal roofing tin also exist installed quickly, usher away rainwater swiftly, and they're the perfect covering systems for homes built on a slope. Unfortunately, metal roofs are also very susceptible to rust – it'due south their biggest enemy! Metallic roofs more than fifteen years old will certainly show the negative effects of corrosion which can be extremely damaging to an entire home, and even modern-twenty-four hours roofing tin can show signs of wear and tear afterward a few years. But how do you deal with rust on your roof?

Why does rust develop and what damage can it do?

Roof rust and corrosion occur when metal covering comes into contact with wet in the air causing a chemical reaction. The longer the metal is exposed to moisture, the faster corrosion and rust will spread.

Well-nigh metal roofs these days are treated with protectants (or galvanised), which is a procedure of applying a protective zinc coating to iron or steel, however even if they're outfitted with high-quality steel products, metallic roofs tin still showroom signs of damage as the years pass and the fabric endures normal wear and tear out in the open.

Over fourth dimension and if exposed to harsh weather and ecology conditions, even treated roofs can wear down and corrosion can starting time to develop. Metal roofs on homes that are in coastal or high-rainfall areas are particularly prone to rust.

If left long enough, rust will eventually brand its way through some metallic roofs leaving holes that are large plenty for pelting to seep through into the covering cavity, and fifty-fifty into the walls and the basic structure of the dwelling house. This tin can severely compromise the integrity of a dwelling and go out it irreparably water damaged.

How can I avoid rust developing?

In order to avoid rust on your roof, ongoing maintenance should be a priority, which involves rinsing your metal roof downwards with a diluted solution of kitchen detergent mixed with water in order to forestall corrosion from setting in. This should be applied with a soft nylon bristle broom, and thoroughly rinsed off later. Never utilize harsh chemicals or abrasive tools to clean your roof as these can scratch off the very layers that are there to protect information technology!

Probably the biggest business concern with roof maintenance is the risk of individuals working at heights, and so but try this yourself if it can be washed safely. Your all-time bet? Contact one of the professionals at Strongguard who tin can make sure the job is done for you – efficiently, effectively and safely!

What should I do if I observe rust?

If you happen to notice spots or stains on your roof, there are a couple of ways to remove rust yourself, particularly if they're swarf stains. Swarf refers to debris left over from cutting or piercing steel, and is made up of abrasives mixed with fine steel particles. If left on the surface of a metal roof, they can corrode and create rust-life stains. Swarf stains are oft mistaken for the early deterioration of the metal roofing production itself, however they are primarily due to a bad clean-upwards job by your past installer (and we assure you, that wouldn't be u.s.a.!)

If you discover spots or stains due to swarf deposits, you should brush your roof with a strong bristled brush (non steel wool) to dislodge the particles, and then wash your roof with a mild detergent mixed with water. Rinse thoroughly!

If you notice pocket-size scratches on your roof, the experts recommend that you refrain from performing any touch-ups yourself, specially if they're not visible from the street. This is considering the colour durability of touch-up paint is ofttimes different from many modern-day steel roofs, and then in a short period of time the colour volition expect unlike anyway. If the impairment to your roof is more than substantial, y'all should contact a roof restoration adept similar us!

When else should I contact the professionals?

If you demand a major roof repair, or your steel roof is quite old and the corrosion is quite widespread, then it will exist difficult and dangerous to remove yourself. Time to phone call in the experts!

The roof restoration professionals hither at Strongguard volition audit your roof, educate you lot on our restoration services, and if your old roof is riddled with rust or is leaking, then they will probably recommend that you replace it (and of class they can offer advice on that).

What are the benefits of choosing a BlueScope Steel roof?

When you purchase roofing from a trusted BlueScope Steel supplier like Strongguard, you are not just making an of import investment in the structural integrity of your property, you are assured of beingness provided with the highest quality metallic roofing products. The BlueScope Steel range is designed to be durable and aesthetically appealing, and it tin can hold its own in some of Australia's toughest weather weather!

Hither at Strongguard, nosotros are also proud of the strong relationships we have built with our partners, Colorbond® and Zincalume. Colorbond® steel has been tried and tested to our state's unique conditions, and offers outstanding, long-life functioning, 5 layers of corrosion resistant blanket, and thermal efficiency for year-round condolement.

Our Zincalume® steel products are some of the toughest in the state, and with the introduction of their Activate engineering in 2022, can guarantee your roof will remain attractive and durable … for a lifetime.

Worried about the signs of rust on your roof? Contact the experts at Strongguard today on (07) 3623 4422.