- October 22, 2024
Georgia’s humid subtropical climate, characterized by mild winters, makes it essential for owners of metal garage building in Georgia to upkeep their metal structure for longevity. Regular cleaning and inspection are crucial steps to avoid rust and corrosion and prevent such damage. The key areas to check for are the roof and gutters, which can be easily ignored. You can monitor for leaks, cracks, or areas exposed to harsh weather conditions. By following these guidelines, you can safeguard your metal garage in Georgia and enjoy its benefits for years to come.
Metal Garage Maintenance: A Guide to Longevity
1. Regular Inspection Of Metal Surface: A rule of thumb for metal garages in Georgia is to create a scheduled inspection for thorough checking at least twice a year. You can choose spring and fall cleaning [before winter arrives] for your convenience. Look for damage to the external, internal, and foundation of the garage.
Signs Of Damage On Metal Structure To Look For
- Minor rusting on panels [roof & side walls]
- Fading paint on panels
- Loose or missing nuts & bolts
- Cracks
- Gaps in between panels
- Structural damage
Tip: Pay special attention to areas that are prone to moisture, such as the roof, gutter, and wall base.
2. Addressing Signs Of Corrosion
If you notice any signs of rusting development, it is crucial to address it promptly to avoid expensive replacements or repairs. Fading paint can be due to constant exposure to the sun, and minor rust may occur because of dirt & debris scratching off the top layer of metal panels.
Tip: To avoid general rusting issues, choose 100% galvanized steel.
But how do prefab steel garages address rusting? First, top-quality steel lasts for decades with minimum maintenance. Next, galvanized steel is dipped in molten zinc, which creates a protective layer around it. With a bit of care and metal garages Georgia will last for decades to come.
What If You Notice Rusting On Metal Panels?
First, don’t panic! Use a wire brush or sandpaper [recommended] to scrap off the rusted part. Now, apply rust-inhibiting primer over it and coat it with metal paint to seal the area.
Metal Building Roof Maintenance: Debris, like tree branches, twigs, dead leaves, dirt, etc., can build up on roofs with time. It becomes necessary to clean them, as they will absorb moisture with time and can lead to rusting. The peak season for fall foliage in Georgia is around October to November. Once it’s over, clean the roof to remove debris.
After cleaning the roof, check for cracks, holes, or gaps between panels. If you notice any, fix them immediately. Use watertight repair sealant to fix minor cracks or holes. However, metal building dealers have found another way to reduce the frequency of cleaning. Have a look.
Best Roof For Metal Garages In Georgia
There are three types of roofs commonly found in metal garages in Georgia – regular [affordable], horizontal, and vertical roofing styles. By comparing the pros & cons of vertical vs. horizontal roofs, one can easily deduce that a vertical roof, with its ridges running towards the ground, lets most dust & debris fall off the panels quickly.
The less dust stays over the panel, the lesser the chances of rusting. Moreover, vertical metal panels also come with extra braces, purlins, and ridge caps to enhance protection on wild, windy days in Georgia. We offer certified steel buildings that can withstand strong winds of up to 180 mph.
How To Clean Metal Garage Buildings in Georgia?
A helpful tip would be to keep the building clean by washing it with mild soap and water every 6-12 months to prevent dirt and grime from building up. Some of the most common mistakes while maintaining metal structures are that people often do not clean and inspect them regularly and ignore the roof. Out of sight, out of mind! But that’s not good for the long term.
Try creating a schedule for cleaning and inspection. You can also trim back trees and plantations that are close to the metal structure to prevent damage from falling branches or growing roots.
- Ensure Proper Drainage:
Besides the roof, gutters and downspouts are common places where dirt and debris can easily get stuck and choke the pipe. Therefore, it is important to clean gutters and downspouts in a timely manner. You can use sturdy stairs to reach the roof’s eave and remove dirt built up in the gutter. Flush pressurized water with the help of a garden hose and nozzle down the downspout to clean it.
Tip: To avoid frequent gutter cleaning, install gutter guards.
- Apply Sealant And Check Fasteners:
Check around the frames of windows and doors. If you notice any gaps or air drafts, use waterproof silicone-based sealant to close them. If existing sealants have cracks or started to wither away, replace them with new ones. You can find tons of sealing options in the nearest hardware stores or online.
Any loose screws or fasteners should be replaced with a new one. Ensure they are not corroded, as it may result in leakage with time. Create an easy checklist for metal garage maintenance and repair works. Include all of the above points in it for easy work.
- Moisture Control:
Georgia has summers most of the year. By installing an insulator, you can prevent moisture and humidity buildup and keep heat transfer in check. At Viking Metal Garages, we offer affordable insulation options like single, double, and woven R17 with high thermal protection. You can pick one depending on the garage’s use.
- Snow & Ice Removal:
Though snowfall is less common in the central and southern parts of Georgia, its northern region may experience snowfall. When buying metal garage kits Georgia, invest in a roof with a high pitch to facilitate snowfall. This will reduce pressure on panels. You can choose a 6:12 pitch with a certified steel structure that can hold a snow load of up to 80 lbs. per sq. ft.
- Pest Control:
The good news is that metal does not attract pests like termite colonies or insects. To avoid pests like roaches or rodents entering your garage, keep it organized and clean. Avoid littering food waste around it, and trim the tall grasses along its foundation.
And there you go. With all these helpful tips, you can easily maintain your metal garage building in Georgia and prolong its lifespan for decades to come.
Preserving Georgia’s Metal Buildings For The Long Haul
By following these simple maintenance tips, you can extend the life of your metal building in Georgia. Whether it is Georgia’s hot summers, thunderstorm winds, large hail, or tornadoes strike, our steel garages in Georgia will stand firm, protecting your valuables. For booking and a free quote, call now at (704)-741-1587.
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