Metal roofs are a smart choice in many applications, from residential homes to commercial buildings. While this energy-efficient and affordable material offers many benefits, some owners of these roofs deal with condensation building underneath it. Fortunately, you can prevent this if you understand why it occurs and how to fix it.

A Guide to Metal Roofs & Condensation

What Causes Condensation

When humidity and temperature conditions reach something called the “dew point,” the moisture in the air condenses to form liquid water. This results in condensation. Because metal buildings tend to have a higher interior humidity, the dew point is often reached daily and condensation forms on the inside of the panels. This is especially common if there is something inside the building raising the humidity levels, such as an HVAC system.

Why It’s a Problem

Too much condensation results in the constant presence of trapped moisture in the wall and roof. This will corrode the metal components, even if the surface is treated. The oxidation weakens the metal and eventually causes the structure to fail. The moisture also reduces the insulation’s thermal performance, so it will no longer be effective. Moisture promotes mold and mildew growth, which reduces the air quality inside the building and can cause health problems, especially for people with asthma or allergies.  

How to Prevent It

The best way to prevent condensation is to insulate the metal roof. This will prevent the surface from reaching the dew point, and in turn, prevents moisture from forming. Fiberglass insulation installed on the underside of the metal will stop the humid air inside the building from having direct contact with the metal panels.

Insulation under your metal roofs is a smart investment that will extend the life span and retain the integrity of your structure. The team at John Lynch Construction offers a full range of roofing services, from a new roof installation to corrosion repairs. No matter what you hire them for, you can trust you’ll get top-quality and durable solutions. They are located in Valley and serve residents throughout Spokane, Stevens, and Ferry counties in Washington. Learn about their cost-effective services on their website and call the roofing contractor at (509) 937-2278 for an estimate.