Addressing common metal roofing callbacks

Learn about the most common causes of job callbacks and how to anticipate and prepare for them.  

Callbacks from previous metal roofing jobs aren't always for major or random reasons. More often than not, the cause for a callback is predictable and one of a handful of common issues. Whether that might be an installation error or a flawed choice in the decision-making process, contractors can likely prevent these callbacks if they know what to look for and come to each new job better prepared than the last. The experts at McElroy Metal share a glimpse into the most commonly seen reasons for callbacks.  

Fastener installation 

When contractors get a call about an issue regarding fasteners, it's often not the fastener itself that's the problem, but the way it was installed. If a critical screw is placed too tightly or not tight enough, problems are sure to quickly follow.  

To prevent this, it's best to approach fastener installation with a controlled, rehearsed process. Crews that not only take their time and focus on the installation itself, but also take the time to check their placement, depth and alignment to ensure there's no room for future problems.  

Mismatched system selection 

While it might seem that many metal roofing systems share similarities, most are not interchangeable. Each system has its own unique requirements for attachment, substrate and performance needs. By picking and choosing different materials from various systems, expecting them to work seamlessly together, you're bound to get callbacks with issues.  

When approaching a project, select a single metal roofing system to commit to and be sure that it will meet the project's needs without any attempts at substitution, which would lead to problems. For the best results, a single complete system is made to offer the most protection and performance. 

Oil canning 

Oil canning refers to the wavy visual appearance that can occur to some metal roofing panels. While the occurrence of oil canning is more of a visual and aesthetic issue and does not impact the metal roof's performance, some building owners dislike the look, leading to potential callbacks.  

It's important to discuss the possibility of oil canning occurring with the building owner before the metal roofing project begins. Make sure all possible outcomes are discussed, and clear expectations are communicated by both sides, so that this issue doesn't come up again down the road. 

There are a variety of reasons why a contactor might get a callback for a metal roofing project. Yet, it's important to remember that it's rarely for a major failure, instead it's about minor issues that could have been addressed before and during installation.  

Read the full article to learn more about the common reasons metal pros get callbacks, and how to prepare.