Are Metal Roofs Durable? Absolutely, But They’re Not Invincible.
If you own or manage a commercial property in Houston, Texas, or the surrounding areas, like Pasadena, Pearland, Sugar Land, or The Woodlands, then chances are you’ve seen your fair share of metal R-panel roofs. These roofs are widely used for their durability and performance. However, after 8–10 years under the blazing Texas sun, even the toughest metal roofs start showing signs of wear and tear.
Today, I want to walk you through the most common anomalies on metal roofs I encounter —problems that, if ignored, can quickly turn into costly repairs. But don’t worry, I’ll also explain how we fix them and how a roof restoration can save you thousands.
Common Anomalies on Metal Roofs
1. Exhaust Vent Penetrations
The Silent Leak Source One of the first areas I always inspect is exhaust vents. These penetrations often have pipe boots and collars that seal the area where the vent passes through the roof. Over time:
- The sealant dries out and cracks due to UV exposure.
- Rubber boots deteriorate, leading to leaks.
- Improper sealing around the collar allows water to sneak in.
How We Fix It:
- We apply a high-quality sealant around the collar and the boot to prevent further deterioration.
- In some cases, we replace the boot entirely to ensure a long-lasting seal.
2. Roof Screws
Thousands of Potential Leaks Did you know a 60-square roof (about 6,000 square feet) can have 6,000 screws or more? Each one is a potential leak point once the seal starts to fail.
- Over time, screws rust and back out, leaving gaps.
- The washers under the screws can dry out and crack, making the seal ineffective.
- Even minor screw damage can result in water penetration.
How We Fix It:
- Replace damaged or missing screws with larger, watertight screws.
- Apply sealant over problematic screws to create a secondary barrier.
- For extensive damage, we recommend a complete restoration coating for added protection.
4. Skylights
Skylights are great for natural lighting, but they’re often the weakest point on a metal roof and can lead to some of the most common anomalies on metal roofs
- Poorly applied coatings or repairs around skylights tend to crack over time.
- The fasteners securing the skylight can loosen, allowing water entry.
- Coatings that were improperly applied with fabric reinforcement can trap moisture and accelerate failure.
How We Fix It:
- Inspect and reseal the perimeter of the skylight using Everseal or similar elastomeric coatings.
- Replace damaged fasteners and reinforce seals.
- Avoid using fabric-based coatings, which tend to lift and cause even bigger leaks.
5. Seam Failures
The Middle-of-the-Roof Nightmare. When leaks occur in the middle of the roof, it’s almost always related to seams between the panels.
- Overlapping seams can allow water to creep under if the slope is low or sealant has failed.
- Thermal expansion and contraction widen these gaps over time.
How We Fix It:
- Use a seam-specific elastomeric coating (no fabric needed) to seal and waterproof seams.
- Focus on areas with low slope, as they are more vulnerable to water penetration.
- Avoid temporary fixes—proper restoration is key for long-term performance.
6. Gutter Issues
The Overlooked Culprit. Gutters often get ignored until there’s a major wall leak. Debris buildup blocks drainage, causing water to overflow back onto the roof or down interior walls.
- Debris buildup blocks drainage, causing water to overflow back onto the roof or down interior walls.
How We Fix It:
- Clear out debris and buildup.
- Ensure the gutter lip is lower than the roof edge to prevent water backup.
- Install gutter guards to reduce debris accumulation in tree-heavy areas.
The Ultimate Fix – Roof Restoration Coating
If your metal roof is showing signs of wear, it might be time for a roof restoration. Here in Houston, where heat and humidity accelerate roof degradation, a silicone or acrylic coating can make a world of difference.
Benefits of Roof Restoration Coatings:
- Cools the roof surface, reducing thermal expansion and contraction.
- Extends roof life by 10–20 years with proper maintenance.
- Provides a watertight seal over seams, screws, and penetrations.
- Cost-effective alternative to roof replacement.
Why Choose Commercial Roof Repair Solutions?
At Commercial Roof Repair Solutions, we specialize in metal R-panel roof repair services in Houston TX and surrounding areas like; Pasadena, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, and Pearland. With over 16 years of experience, we know what works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to protecting your investment. That is why we are considered one of Houston TX metal roof leak repair experts.
Whether you’re dealing with leaks, rusted screws, skylight issues, or failing seams, we’ve got you covered. Our silicone roof restoration systems provide long-term protection and come with warranties for up to 10 years.
Call Us Today for a Free Inspection
Don’t wait for any of these common anomalies on metal roofs to becomes a major problem. If you suspect your metal R-panel roof has issues, give us a call at 281-928-4428.
Let’s schedule a free inspection and find the best solution to keep your roof performing like new.
Ready to Restore Your Roof? Call Now – 281-928-4428!
#Metal R-panel roof repair services in Houston TX, #Commercial Metal Roof Restoration Near Houston TX
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