Inspections

• It's a good idea to inspect your metal roof semi-annually for signs of damage or deterioration. The sooner you notice a problem, the sooner it can be repaired, reducing the risk of significant and costly damage. If you notice that the paint is chipping, touch it up to prevent rusting later on, which will threaten the integrity of the roof. Check for holes, debris or dirt buildup and any other damage.
  
  

Cleaning

• If you installed your roof specifically to reduce cooling costs, you'll have to keep it clear of debris and dirt buildup that can reduce its effectiveness. Bill Hippard, in a 2010 article for Metal Magazine, advises homeowners to rinse a roof once or twice a year with water from a hose to keep it clean. If you have solar panels or a roof treated with special paint to increase solar reflectivity, clean bird droppings and tree sap from the roof with dish soap and warm water.
  
  

Conflicting Metals

• It is very important to keep conflicting metal from coming into contact on your metal roof. Conflicting metals are those that produce adverse chemical reactions when they come in contact with each other. Copper, for example, reacts corrosively with aluminum and galvanized steel. Any roof accessories ---antennas, for example, or replacement hardware --- must be made of the same metal as the roof.
  
  

Repairs

• To minimize the potential for rust and corrosion on your metal roof, it's best to leave the repairs to the professionals. If the roof sustains considerable damage from the weather or some other force, call a professional roofing contractor who knows his way around a metal roof.