What is Cut Edge Corrosion and What Damage Can It Cause

When most people think of corrosion, they imagine a green and orange substance eating away at metal. This type of corrosion is called general corrosion. While it is certainly destructive, there is another type of corrosion that can be even more dangerous for businesses – cut edge corrosion. But what is it? How can it impact your business?

What is Cut Edge Corrosion?

Cut edge corrosion occurs when the protective coating on metal is damaged or breached. This can happen in a number of ways, but it is most commonly seen when metal is cut or drilled. The exposed edges of the metal are then vulnerable to corrosion. Over time, this corrosion can spread, leading to extensive damage.

Cut edge corrosion can also occur due to poor installation practices. If the metal is not properly sealed or protected, it can be more susceptible to damage and corrosion. Cut edge corrosion is most commonly seen on roofing and cladding systems; this is because these systems are often exposed to the elements and can be more easily damaged.

In recent years, metal roofing and cladding systems have become more popular, as they offer many benefits. However, these systems can be susceptible to cut edge corrosion if they are not properly installed or maintained. With this in mind, we recommend working with skilled roofers in Mesa to avoid problems.

What Damage Can Cut Edge Corrosion Cause?

Cut edge corrosion can cause various problems, including:

Structural damage: Over time, the corrosion can cause the metal to weaken and eventually fail. This can lead to serious structural damage, which can be expensive to repair. As you can imagine, this is particularly problematic in a roofing system, as it can lead to leaks.

Aesthetics: In addition to causing structural damage, cut edge corrosion can also be unsightly. This can be a problem if you have a metal roof, as the corrosion will be visible. As mentioned, this can also lead to leaks, as the corrosion can eat through the metal. Again, this doesn’t look great for your roof.

Safety: In some cases, cut edge corrosion can also be dangerous. Sadly, the metal can become weak and eventually fail. This can cause the metal to collapse, which can pose a serious safety hazard.

Functionality: Depending on the damage, cut edge corrosion can also impact the functionality of your roof. If the corrosion is severe enough, it can cause leaks. As you can imagine, this can be quite a nuisance, especially when the leaks turn to mold and mildew.

Leaks: The corrosion can create holes in the metal, which will allow water to enter the building. This can cause extensive damage to the interior of the building, including the ceilings, walls, and floors.

All in all, cut edge corrosion is a serious problem that should be addressed as soon as possible. If you notice any signs of corrosion on your roof, be sure to contact a professional roofing contractor right away. They will be able to assess the damage and recommend the best course of action.

As well as roofing, cut edge corrosion can also occur on gutters, downpipes and flashing. If you have any of these fittings on your property, it’s important to regularly inspect them for signs of corrosion. If left untreated, cut edge corrosion can cause serious damage to your property.

With a yearly roof inspection, any potential problems can be caught early and dealt with before they cause serious damage. This will save you money in the long run and help to keep your property as healthy as possible!