How to Work on a Steel Roof

Inspect the roofing material carefully for signs of rusting, corrosion and loose fasteners. Check the seams of the material for any separation.

Remove rust from the steel material with a wire brush. Clean up debris with a rag.

Clean the areas that need repair with solution of soap and water to remove dirt and grease for proper adherence of the repair compounds.

Remove loose nails and re-attach securely with new nails. Re-attach seams and fasten down securely. Place a small amount of roofing cement over the head of the nails to prevent leaks.

Scrape off loose, corroded areas from damaged roofing material. Remove loose pieces of metal with tin snips.

Apply strips of butyl tape around the perimeter of the area to be patched.

Cut a patch of steel 2 to 3 inches larger than the damaged area on all sides. Place securely on top of the butyl tape.

Insert the metal screws at 2-inch intervals along the edge of the patch and screw in securely with screwdriver.

Seal around the edges of the patch with urethane roofing cement, using the trowel.

Apply a dab of roofing cement around the heads of the screws.

Inspect the metal flashing that connects the roof to chimneys or other utility outlets. Leaks can often occur at these points. Secure loose flashing with nails and cover nail heads with a small amount of roofing cement to prevent leaking.