Stress wrinkling (also known as elastic buckling or oil canning) refers to the development of wavy segments on a flat metal roof. This defect does not affect the structural integrity of the roof. However, it can be an eyesore to some homeowners. This article discusses how you can ensure that the new roof that you install on your residence does not develop this defect.

Pick the Roof Gauge Carefully

Thinner metals tend to deflect and change their shape as temperatures vary. The first step to prevent stress wrinkling is therefore to select the thickest metal roofing materials that you can find. You may need to consult a metal roofing contractor about the most appropriate metal thickness that can resist stress wrinkling in your area.

Choose a Reputable Supplier

The manufacturing process that produces the metal roof may contribute to stress wrinkling. This is because a particular manufacturer may not include a sufficient amount of ingredients or materials that can minimise the likelihood of elastic buckling.

You should therefore first visit the homes of people who have bought metal roofs from a given supplier before you make your purchase. You can ask the supplier for references for this purpose. The absence of stress wrinkling on the roofing materials used by the homeowners that you visit will enable you to be sure that you have selected the right supplier/manufacturer.

Be Mindful About the Substrate

Metal roofs may develop stress wrinkling if they are attached to a substrate that is weak, flawed or uneven. For instance, a weak substrate will easily bend under the weight of the metal roof. This bending can cause the roof to develop stress wrinkling. You should therefore ensure that the substrate that you use is the one recommended for the type of metal roof that you would like to install.

Avoid DIY Installation

Some homeowners may feel that they can take on the task of installing their new metal roof without involving a professional. However, such homeowners may make mistakes that can cause the roof to develop elastic buckling later on. For instance, you may not know how to install the roof in such a way that the built-in stress relief features can do their work in preventing stress wrinkling. Avoid taking such a risk and let the experts do the job.

A lasting roof starts with selecting the right materials, installing them well and performing the needed maintenance activities in a timely manner. Adhere to all the given guidelines and your metal roof will be less likely to show any sign of stress wrinkling.