Steel Roof Condensation Problems

That excess moisture ends up as drops of condensation on the roof.

Steel roof condensation problems.

Warm wet air rises and meets the cold roof and cools. It can lead to roof leaks even if rain has not occurred for several days. Inadequate space allotted for thermal expanding and contracting of the panels. If the tin roof sits on top of another material such as wood then you can get a case of wood rot.

The key to getting condensation to evaporate is air flow. Metal roof condensation especially with a tin roof can cause serious problems when the metal sweats or rainwater collects under the tin panels. It is the leading cause of the deterioration of trusses. Having vents in all elevations of the shed is an effective way of minimising metal roof sweating.

Having ventilation holes around the roof at eaves level and in the gable walls allows moisture rich air to escape. Although condensation in roofs may not seem like a serious problem it actually is. Frequent stress from coil slitting cutting and rollforming panels. In the case of the timber trusses and purlins they will rot and eventually lose their stability.

Essentially condensation occurs at night when the temperature inside a building is warmer than outside. Condensation on metal roofs can be a problem once the weather starts to get cold. Picture a cloud of moisture floating overhead between the rafters. This video shows what a significant condensation problem can look like.

Condensation happens when moisture filled air contacts anything that is below the dew point temperature. Metal gets cold faster than other items so condensation begins on metal first. When this happens the tin roof can rust and even warp. Improper usage handling and storage by installers.

As it cools it can t hold as much moisture.