Preventing oil canning: 6 tips for metal roof maintenance

By Viotell Metal Concepts. 

Your guide to oil canning and how to keep it at bay. 

There are many benefits to a metal roof: durability, energy efficiency, low maintenance, weather resistance and aesthetics. However, there is no perfect roofing system without regular maintenance, and your metal roof does come with potential for oil canning.  

Oil canning is what occurs when the metal panels develop a visible rippling or wavy effect, usually due to temperature changes. Thankfully, oil canning doesn’t pose a structural threat and is mostly an aesthetic issue, but we at Viotell Metal Concepts recommend consistent upkeep to preserve the value of your home and prevent long-term warping and higher-cost repairs. If you live in an HOA community, it is wise to know your HOA’s roofing rules to ensure your roof is maintained, keeping the value of your unit high. 

Below is a guide to help you prevent oil canning and maintain a healthy, long-standing, ripple-free metal roof. 

What is oil canning? 

Oil canning means the flat metal panels on your roof look a bit wavy or rippled. It’s mostly a visual issue, but it can make your roof look less polished and make people wonder if something is off with your metal roof installation. 

Why does it happen? 

A few things cause this: 

• Sometimes fasteners are tightened too much or placed incorrectly during installation, putting pressure on the metal and causing it to warp. 
• Because metal expands and contracts with temperature swings, your roof needs to be installed so it can move a bit. If it’s too rigid, that’s when oil canning shows up. 
• Sometimes the metal panels themselves have tiny flaws or get dinged during shipping, making them more prone to those waves. 

Knowing this helps when picking materials and installers, and it’s why maintenance matters. 

How to keep oil canning away 

1 - Choose good quality metal roofing 

Thicker metal panels and those with textured finishes tend to resist oil canning better and last longer. 

2 - Look over your roof regularly 

Check your roof every six months or after storms for any signs of waviness, loose screws or damage. 

3 - Make sure fasteners are right 

Fasteners that are too tight or too loose can cause problems. Getting them just right helps keep your panels flat. 

4 - Clean your roof carefully 

Dirt and moisture can speed up wear. Use gentle cleaning methods, mild soap and a soft brush and avoid anything abrasive that could scratch your roof. 

5 - Let your roof move with temperature changes 

Expansion clips or floating clips allow your roof panels to shift naturally as they heat up and cool down, which helps prevent warping. 

6 - Ask a pro if you’re unsure 

If you see something off or just want peace of mind, call a trusted metal roofing expert. They’ll spot any issues and fix them before they get worse. 

Why it’s worth it 

Keeping your roof looking smooth: 

• Helps maintain that sleek, modern style. 
• Makes your roof last longer. 
• Boosts your home’s curb appeal and resale value. 
• Saves money by catching small problems early. 
• Keeps you in line with HOA roofing standards. 

Bottom line 

Routine care is the key to avoiding bigger headaches and costly fixes later on. Especially if you live in a neighborhood with an HOA, taking care of your metal roof helps keep everything running smoothly. 

If you want advice or service for your metal roof, local pros know the unique challenges your area's weather throws at roofs and can help you protect your home for years to come. 

Original article source: Viotell Metal Concepts