Roof Systems · For owners & managers
Exposed-Fastener Metal Roofs: Leaks, Care, and Retrofit Options
Screw-down panels are common on warehouses and shops. Each screw has a rubber washer that ages in the sun.
How they fail
Washers dry out, screws back out with heat movement, and laps start to rust.
- Leaking fasteners
- Rust at overlaps and edges
- Loose ridge caps
Repair choices
Fastener replacement with larger screws, seam sealing, and rust treatment can extend life.
Retrofit options
Coatings or a new roof system over the panels are possible when structure allows. Get an engineer's input when adding weight.
Common questions
- How often should fasteners be checked?
- Many owners check them during regular inspections.
- Is rust always bad?
- Surface rust can be treated. Rust-through needs panel repair.