Hey, I’m David Lelak with IHI Home Inspections, and I’m here to tell you something most homeowners don’t think about until it’s too late—loose screws on your metal roof can cause some serious damage. I inspect homes across Canton, Cumming, Alpharetta, and Woodstock, and I see this issue more often than you’d expect.

Sure, metal roofs are built tough. They’re durable, energy-efficient, and long-lasting—but they’re not invincible. If you’ve had your roof for 10–15 years (or longer), it’s time to start watching for one of the most common silent threats: screws that back out over time.

Why Loose Screws Are More Than Just a Minor Issue

When screws on your metal roof start to loosen, it might look harmless at first—but here’s what can actually happen:

• Water Leaks: That screw no longer seals the panel tight, and water finds its way in. Over time, this leads to rotting wood, drywall stains, and mold.

• Structural Damage: When panels shift because of loose screws, it weakens the entire system. One issue turns into many.

• Energy Loss: If your panels aren’t sealed tightly, your HVAC system has to work harder, which raises your utility bills.

• Rust & Corrosion: Water sitting under panels or around screw holes will eventually cause rust, reducing the roof’s lifespan.

How I Spot Loose Screws During Home Inspections

As your trusted home inspector, I don’t just glance at the roof—I walk it (when safe), scan it, and photograph it. Here’s what I’m looking for:

• Screw Heads Popping Up: Any visible lift or tilt in the screws is a red flag.

• Shiny Metal or Rust Rings: These can signal movement or water intrusion.

• Gaps Between Panels: Misaligned panels often mean screws have failed underneath.

• Air or Moisture Leaks: I use thermal imaging and moisture meters to detect what you can’t see with the naked eye.

🔩 If I find any of these, I’ll document it in your inspection report, along with high-resolution photos and repair recommendations.

When Should Screws Be Replaced?

If your metal roof is more than 10–15 years old and you’ve never replaced the screws, it’s probably time. Over time, old screws:

• Lose their grip

• Rust or strip

• Fail to seal properly

🪛 I recommend replacing them with longer, tighter-grip screws designed specifically for metal roofing. These are built to re-seal worn holes and create a stronger barrier.

Simple Roof Maintenance = Big Savings

Even if you’re not seeing signs of leaks, loose screws might be quietly doing damage. That’s why I always recommend a professional home inspection every year or after major storms. Think of it as a check-up for your home—quick, painless, and packed with value.

If I spot problems early, you might only need a few hundred dollars in repairs—instead of thousands in roof replacements or mold remediation.

Real Savings: Why Inspections Pay for Themselves

Let’s talk numbers:

• Replacing a damaged metal panel: $300–$800

• Treating hidden mold from water damage: $2,000–$6,000

• Full roof replacement: $10,000+

• My inspection: starts under $500 and includes a full report with photos, summaries, and recommendations.

✅ It’s the easiest decision you'll make when it comes to protecting your home.

Watch Our Short Video on Metal Roof Maintenance

Want to see exactly what I’m talking about? I break this down in one of our YouTube shorts—complete with real footage from recent inspections. You’ll learn how to spot loose screws, gaps, and moisture signs in under 60 seconds.

📲 And while you're there, hit subscribe for more weekly tips!

Serving Your Neighborhood: Cherokee to North Fulton

I inspect homes and roofs every week in:

• 🏘 Canton, GA – especially in Great Sky, Bridgemill, and new builds near Laurel Canyon

• 🏘 Alpharetta, GA – including upscale homes and rural estates needing pre-listing inspections

• 🏘 Cumming, GA – from Vickery Village to Lake Lanier homes

• 🏘 Woodstock, GA – like River Park and downtown cottages with older roofs

Need me to check a specific issue or walk a roof before you close? I’ve got you covered.

Schedule Your Roof Inspection with IHI Home Inspections

Whether you're buying, selling, or just want peace of mind—don’t wait for a leak to show up. Let’s catch those loose screws and hidden gaps before they turn into expensive damage.

🗓️ Book now: https://homeinspectioncantonga.com
📘 Facebook: facebook.com/Atlantahomeinspector
📸 Instagram: instagram.com/ihihomeinspections
📺 YouTube: @HomeInspectorAtlantaGA