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TOPIC: Maintenance

colored galvanized metal care

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I am planning on reroofing several barns with colored galavanized metal. I would like to buy all the material at the same time to ensure color match. Is there a concern with leaving portions of the metal banded and stored outside for months until I need it? Should I be worried about flaking of the color or discoloration?
Guest User

11/28/2001
It is generally suggested that steel roofing not be stored outside for an extended period of time. With certain paint systems, yes, there is a risk of damaging the finish. However, the primary risk is that moisture will be trapped between the sheets of metal that could cause corrosion to begin. The finishes on the back side of the metal in particular are not intended for having moisture trapped against them for an extended period time. If the panels absolutely must be stored outside, use boards to space them apart so they are not stacked tightly one against the next. Elevate one end to promote drainage of any moisture. Finally, cover them with a quality canvas tarp. Do not use a plastic tarp as it will not breathe. Again, though, manufacturers will suggest that you avoid long term storage outside.
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.

11/28/2001
You mention corrosion to the back side. Will moisture cause the coating on the top side to flake or corrode?
Guest User

11/29/2001
I have recently purchased a home that is almost 20 years old and has a metal roof. The original color was dark green and now, due to oxidation, etc., the color is lime green. Can you suggest a spray on product to refurnish the color and if not, can you recommend a paint?
Guest User

2/4/2002
I am sorry that I'd not seen your question sooner. My apologies. Yes, if the panels are stored incorrectly for a very long period of time and moisture is trapped between the panels, it could eventually damage the paint system on the top side as well.
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.

2/4/2002
Chances are that the bulk of what you're seeing is oxidation / chalking rather than color change. However, that might not necessarily be the case. Today's quality paint finishes that are used on most vertical seam roofs, such as Kynar / Hylar finishes, resist fade and chalk very well. If you choose to repaint, most quality paint stores will have primers and top coats for repainting metal panels. I would try to power clean the roof first to get it as clean as possible before painting. This might even knock off much of the chalk and restore the roof considerably. Aside from that, there is a clear coat that is marketed for the purpose of restoring paint finishes. The manufacturer makes great claims about it but I have no personal experience with it. I do not have the information on it here at my home. However, if you'd like details, email me at my office and I will get back with you. My email is [email protected]
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.

2/4/2002
I have been restoring metal roofs for 6 years now. It sounds as though your roof needs a good cleaning to remove the chaulk build up to restore some original colour. Recoating your roof will provide you with a new colour and look, but be prepaired to recoat the roof every 6-10 years, depending on your roof pitch. I have tried numerous cleaning products that take claim to the "spray on & rinse off, instant restoration" theory. Ultimatly the best product I came across is old fanishoned elbow grease! A soft bristle brush, a constant water supply, a mild (environmently friendly) cleaning solution, and lots of rubbing. If you use a power washer for your water supply, keep it at low pressure (you want to wet the exsisting coating, not remove it) we run ours between 1500-1750 PSI. And BE CAREFUL!! A wet metal roof is very slippery, ensure to follow your local OSHA regulations. If your thinking about applying a new top coat, a mild Tri-sodium Phosphate (TSP)/ water cleaning solution helps prepare the deck for top coat adhesion. Your local qualified paint dealer can supply you with proper paints to recoat your roof. Good Luck
Guest User

2/5/2002
Each year we go all out for Christmas lights on the house and in the yard. Last year was our first year to have our new metal roof. We have found no way to make the Christmas lights stay pretty and straight. Do you have a solution for this problelm. Thank you for your help.
Guest User

10/26/2002
I want to try to help you so that your holidays can be festive and bright. However, without knowing more about the profile / type of metal roof you have and where you are trying to hang the lights, I cannot help. Feel free to email details direct to me at [email protected]
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.

10/26/2002
My question is not about a roof but about a galvanized metal sink top in a unique half bath. The metal is not painted but has a shiny finish. It is now getting spots that look like calcium deposits from water even though our local water is practically free of all minerals. When I tried removing these with vinegar (which I have used on other surfaces), the deposits come off only with a very strong solution and seem to also take off some of the finish. Do you have other suggestions
Guest User

10/11/2007
I am sorry. I do not know what to suggest. Contact a sink manufacturer I guess.
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.

10/14/2007