Table of Contents
Do Metal Roofs Rust? How to Prevent Rust on Metal Roofing
Table of Contents
- Introduction: The Question, Answered
- Types of Metal Roofing: Not All Metals Are the Same
- Which Metal Roofs Are Most Susceptible to Rust?
- Protective Coatings That Prevent Rust
- Maintenance Tips to Keep Rust at Bay
- Benefits of Rust-Resistant Metal Roofing in Florida
- RIG Roofing Is Florida’s Metal Roofing Specialist
- Long-Lasting Metal Roofing Starts Here
Introduction: The Rust Question, Answered
At RIG Roofing we hear this question often: “Do metal roofs rust?” The short answer? They can but they don’t have to. With the right materials, protective coatings, and proper installation, your metal roof can stay rust-free and beautiful for decades.
Metal roofing is incredibly popular across Central Florida, and for good reasons:
- Stands up to tumultuous Florida storms
- Sheds rain effortlessly
- Can withstand significant impact without fracturing or leaking
- Lasts much longer than other popular roofing materials
However, like anything exposed to elements, it doesn’t hurt to give it a little extra protection. In this blog, we’ll walk you through which types of metal roofing are prone to rust, how to prevent it, and why working with RIG Roofing is the best way to ensure a rust-free metal roof.
Types of Metal Roofing: Not All Metals Are the Same
Before we can talk about rust, you have to know the different types of metal roofing.
Common types of metal roofing include:
- Galvanized Steel
- Galvalume Steel
- Aluminum
- Copper
- Zinc
Of course, each type has its own strengths and rust resistance profile. Here’s how they stack up:
| Metal Type | Rust Potential | Notes |
| Galvanized Steel | Moderate | Coated with zinc to resist rust, but can wear over time |
| Galvalume Steel | Low | Zinc-aluminum coating offers stronger corrosion resistance |
| Aluminum | Very Low | Doesn’t rust, but can corrode in salty environments |
| Copper | None | Develops a patina, not rust |
| Zinc | None | Naturally resists rust and corrosion |
Which Metal Roofs Are Most Susceptible to Rust?
If you're seeing rust on a metal roof, odds are it's either galvanized steel that's lost its coating or an exposed fastener system where water has worked its way in.
Here’s what you need to know about metal roofs and rust:
- Galvanized Steel: Great budget option, but once the zinc layer wears down (especially at cut edges or scratches), rust can form.
- Poorly Installed Fasteners: If screws aren't sealed properly or if exposed screws are used in wet climates, rust can start around the penetrations.
- Lack of Maintenance: Dirt, debris, and pooled water will speed up corrosion, especially on older metal roofs.
In Central Florida, the high humidity, salty air near the coasts, and frequent storms can accelerate rust formation if the roof isn’t installed or protected properly.
Protective Coatings That Prevent Rust on Metal Roofs
So how do you stop rust before it starts? A great way to prevent rust on a metal roof is with protective coatings. These coatings are the first line of defense for your metal roof, and they vary by material and manufacturer.
Popular rust-preventing coatings:
- Galvanization – A zinc layer applied to steel to delay corrosion
- Galvalume® – A mix of zinc and aluminum; superior to standard galvanization
- PVDF Coating (Kynar 500®) – High-performance paint that resists fading, chalking, and corrosion
- Acrylic & Polyester Coatings – More affordable, but may not last as long in humid climates
At RIG Roofing, we recommend Galvalume panels with Kynar 500 paint for Florida homes. These roofs can last 40–50 years with minimal rust risk and excellent UV resistance.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Rust at Bay
Even the best metal roof benefits from occasional TLC. Here’s what you can do to keep yours looking and performing its best:
✅ Keep Your Roof Rust-Free With These Tips:
- Inspect annually, especially after hurricanes or major storms
- Clear leaves and debris that trap moisture and dirt
- Rinse with water occasionally to remove salt buildup near the coast
- Check fasteners and seams for wear or missing sealant
- Touch up scratches or bare spots with manufacturer-approved paint or coating
The good news? Metal roofs are low-maintenance by design. Just a little effort goes a long way.
Benefits of Rust-Resistant Metal Roofing in Florida
So why are more and more Florida homeowners choosing rust-resistant metal roofing? Because it’s built for our Florida climate.
Why metal roofing is ideal for Florida:
- Withstands hurricane-force winds
- Outstanding impact resistance
- Won’t absorb water or grow mold/mildew
- Reflects solar heat, lowering cooling bills
- Can last 40–70 years with proper care
- Fire-resistant and energy-efficient
And thanks to protective coatings and quality materials, you don’t have to worry about your metal roof rusting, even in Florida’s humid and salty air.
Why RIG Roofing Is Central Florida’s Metal Roofing Specialist
At RIG Roofing, metal roofing isn’t just a service we offer, it’s our specialty. Our crews have decades of experience installing rust-resistant metal roofs across Florida. Additionally, our roofing specialists can assist you in choosing the best metal roofing solutions for your home and budget. We even have flexible financing options to help make your roofing project more affordable.
Why homeowners choose R.I.G. Roofing:
- We use top-rated products
- Our installation crews are trained for Florida wind and code requirements.
- We offer workmanship warranties, on top of the manufacturer's warranty.
- We help with financing and offer insurance assistance.
- We’re locally owned, family-operated, and dedicated to your satisfaction.
When you choose a metal roof from RIG Roofing, you're choosing a roof that lasts, looks great, and resists rust for decades to come.
Final Thoughts: Long-Lasting Protection Starts Here
So, do metal roofs rust? They can but not when you do it right. The key is choosing the right materials, protective coating, and a local roofing team that will get the job done right.
Choose R.I.G. roofing for your metal roof and it will be ready to withstand everything Florida throws at it, without rusting! Whether you're building new or replacing an old roof, RIG Roofing is your trusted partner for rust-resistant metal roofing in Central Florida.
Ready to Upgrade to a Rust-Free Metal Roof?
Let’s talk, call 1 (863) 294-4477 ! Or Contact RIG Roofing online today for a free metal roofing consultation and estimate. Our team will be glad to help you choose the best roofing system for your home, situation, and budget.
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