Aerial view of North Florida house with gray metal roof and white stucco siding

A Few Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Metal Roof

A Few Signs It’s Time To Replace Your
Metal Roof In Orange Park, FL

See What The Roofing Pros
Have To Say


When it comes to longevity for your home in Orange Park, FL, metal roofs are a solid and popular option. Metal roofing is versatile, long-lasting, and withstands almost anything the weather in North Florida can throw at it. This material also comes in many styles, from standing seam metal roofing to metal shingles that mimic other roofing materials.

While metal roofs have a reputation for durability and longevity, they aren’t meant to last forever. After several decades, you may start to notice signs of wear and wonder if it’s time to swap out your old roof for a new one.

At Universal Roof & Contracting, we’ve replaced more than a few metal roofs over our years in business. We’ve compiled this helpful guide for Orange Park, FL homeowners to know when it’s time for a metal roof replacement.


How Long Do Metal Roofs Last?

There are many types and finishes of metal roofing covering homes throughout North Florida, but you should expect to get at least 30 years out of your roof. Many metal roofs, however, have a longevity of between 50 – 70 years, so the answer to this question depends greatly on your specific type of metal roofing and the weather damage.

The hot, humid North Florida climate is tough on roofs, and it can wear out your metal roof faster than it would in a milder climate. It’s crucial to know how to spot the signs you need a metal roof replacement.


The Painted Finish Of Your Orange Park, FL
Metal Roof Is Faded

When many homeowners hear of this sign, they’re often confused. Isn’t painting your metal roof a solution for a faded finish?

Yes – if there’s no underlying damage. But chances are, if your metal roof’s finish is faded, damage such as rust might already be at work corroding your metal.

The reason is that the protective paint and finish the manufacturer applies to your metal roofing are designed to protect it from corrosion and other problems. However, once it starts to fade, you no longer have this protection, and your roof is vulnerable to the elements. And here in North Florida, the elements get to work on your roof quite quickly!


Storm Damage To Your Metal Roof

Storm damage appears differently on metal roofs than on asphalt shingle roofs. Impact damage, which can be caused by something like a falling tree branch during hurricane season, can dent and buckle your metal roofing. Not to mention, it can damage your roof structure!

Regardless of material, your roof is supposed to form a tight, insulating seal over your home. When your metal roofing panels are dented or warped, it leaves your roof vulnerable to water damage, pests, and other issues.


Fasteners, Screws, And Other Hardware Is Loose
Or Missing On Your Orange Park, FL Roof

Screws and fasteners keep your metal roofing in place, whether that’s screw-down metal roofing (such as corrugated) or standing seam. If the screws and other hardware are missing, loose, or showing signs of damage, your roof may have reached the end of its lifespan.

While a loose screw here or there may not look like a problem, the issue is that it makes your roof vulnerable to pest damage, mildew, and the elements. A panel with loose screws is a panel that doesn’t fully protect against the torrential rain we get here in Orange Park, and you might notice water stains on your attic ceiling.


Visible Damage To The Inside Of Your North Florida Home

Leaks can be difficult to spot from the outside – especially with a metal roof. However, signs of a water leak inside your home include water stains on the ceiling, a mildew smell, or visible dripping from the ceiling. You may even notice damp attic insulation, a sure sign that your roof has been compromised.

While some leaks only require a quick roof repair, when they’re combined with other signs of an aging roof, it might be time for a replacement.

When you need a roof replacement in Orange Park, FL, call Universal Roof & Contracting at 407-214-4872 or visit us online for a free inspection.