Metal roofs are very durable, but occasionally they need repair. Though you can replace a section, it’s generally best to call an installer who is trained in working with your particular type of roof. If you have any paperwork on the original purchase of your roof, check it to see if the warranty will cover repairs.

Here are some tips for general maintenance:

1) Look for loose nails. Pull and re-nail them.

2) Look for holes, rust patches, or other signs of deterioration.

3) Seal up leaks with urethane roof cement, which has better protection against ultraviolet rays than dord common asphalt or plastic roof cement. (Even so, the cement will deteriorate over time, and the flashing will need replacement.) For a finger-size hole, make a small patch from the same material as the flashing, and cement it over the hole.

4) Re-caulk all seams and edges along the flashing using a urethane roofing cement.

5) Replace severely damaged flashing; for this, call a metal roofing repair specialist.

More about buying metal roofs:

• Metal Roofing Buying Guide
• How to Choose a Metal Roofing Contractor
• Metal Roofing Materials
• Metal Roofing: The Benefits
• Metal Roofing: The Drawbacks
• Metal Shingle Roofing
• Sheet Metal Roofing