Repairing a Galvanized Metal Roofing Leak

Work carefully when repairing roof leaks.

A quality galvanized metal roof will last 50 years with regular care and cleaning. But before it's time to replace the roof altogether, it might sprout a few leaks. Once you find the source of the leak, galvanized metal roofing is easy to fix with the right tools. But take care when working on the roof. Tread carefully on the galvanized metal sheeting and work slowly to avoid slips.

Things You'll Need

• Wire brush
• 2-inch wide butyl tape
• Tin snips
• Galvanized metal sheeting
• Drill
• Sheet metal screws
• Glass membrane, asphalt impregnated roofing fabric
• Galvanized metal roof coating
• Paint brush
• Caulk

Instructions

Repair a Hole in the Galvanized Metal Roofing

1. Clear away any flaking roof coating and debris with a wire brush. The 4 inches of the roof around the hole must be smooth and clear of debris to make a secure patch.

2. Cut a sheet of galvanized metal that is 3 inches wider than the hole on all sides.

3. Apply a strip of butyl tape on each side of the hole, close to its edges.

4. Place the cut sheet of metal on top of the hole so it extends 3 inches beyond the hole on all sides.

5. Pre-drill your screw holes at 2-inch intervals around the perimeter of the patch, roughly half an inch from the edge. Add the screws If the patch is not held flush with the roof, add more screws so they are now at 1-inch intervals.

6. Apply caulk to seal the edge of the patch and the perimeter of each screw head.

7. Paint over the perimeter of the patch with roof coating. Extend the coverage area 2 inches beyond the patch and far enough into it to cover and seal the screws.

Repair a Split Roof Seem or Crack in the Galvanized Metal Roofing

1. Clear away any flaking roof coating and debris with a wire brush. The 4 inches of the roof around the hole must be smooth and clear of debris for the coating to adhere successfully.

2. Cut a piece of roofing fabric that is 2 inches wider than the damaged area on all sides.

3. Paint the 2-inch area around the damage with galvanized aluminum roof coating. Do not allow the roof coating to harden before proceeding to step three.

4. Place the roofing fabric over the seam. Press it into the still moist roof coating.

5. Paint a second layer of roof coating over the roofing fabric.

Tips & Warnings

• The outdoor temperature must be 50 degrees Fahrenheit or higher and dry without any threat of precipitation for the next 48 hours.

• Observe ladder safety when working on the roof. Stand the ladder on firm, level ground. The top three rungs of the ladder must extend above the eave of the roof. Have a partner steady the ladder as you climb and work. If possible, repair the leak without climbing on the roof. If you must climb on the roof, walk only on the edges or the trusses. Trusses are spaced every 16 to 24 inches on the roof. If you must travel off of the trusses, kneel on a wooden plank to avoid denting or damaging the roof. Place the board so that it runs perpendicular to the trusses. The plank must be half an inch thick or more to support your weight.

References

• Home Maintenance for Dummies: James Carey and Morris Carey
• Old House Journal; Wood Cornice Restoration and Repair; Larry Jones