Sometimes I think half of roofing is just luck and hoping your patch job holds through the next storm...
Ain’t that the truth. I’ve seen folks spend a fortune on new metal edging, top-of-the-line screws, all that jazz—and still end up with leaks after a good windstorm. Sometimes it’s just the way the old panels warp or how the rain blows sideways. Out here, I’ve had to shim under spots with bits of flashing just to get another season out of them. Have you tried any sealants along those warped edges, or is it mostly just screws for now?
I’ve had mixed luck with sealants, honestly. Some of those “roof & gutter” caulks just peel up after a couple freeze-thaw cycles, at least around here (Midwest winters are brutal). I’ve started using butyl tape under the edges before screwing down, and it seems to help a bit more than just slapping on more screws. Curious if you’ve ever tried that or if you stick to the old-school methods? Sometimes I wonder if it’s just delaying the inevitable full panel replacement...
That’s actually a smart move with the butyl tape. I’ve noticed the same thing with caulks—seems like no matter what the tube says, Midwest freeze-thaw just eats it up. Have you tried any of those hybrid sealants? I’ve heard mixed reviews, but some folks swear by them for metal seams. I get what you mean about just delaying the bigger job... sometimes it feels like we’re just buying time until the next panel swap. Still, anything that keeps water out a bit longer is worth a shot in my book.
I’ve wondered about those hybrids too—are you talking about the polyurethane/silicone blends? I tried one on a gutter joint last fall, and it’s holding up better than the old latex stuff, but I’m still skeptical about longevity with our winters. Has anyone actually pulled up panels after a few years to see how these sealants age underneath? I always worry about hidden rust or trapped moisture.
I’m right there with you about the trapped moisture paranoia. I’ve used those hybrid sealants on a couple flashing spots, but honestly, I’m always half-expecting to find some ugly surprise when I check under there. My neighbor swears by the stuff—he’s got a “set it and forget it” attitude—but I’ve seen what a bad winter can do. Has anyone tried using the hybrids on older metal roofs? I’m curious if they peel or just go all gummy after a few seasons...
