Metal Building Maintenance: How to Protect Buildings in Coastal Areas

February 26, 2025 Posted in: Building Maintenance, Metal Buildings

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Metal Building Maintenance on the Coast

Sure, living near the sea comes with plenty of perks. Beautiful views, fresh open air, and laid-back lifestyles are just part of coastal living. But when it comes to keeping your metal building in maintained shape, coastal environments can wreak havoc on your structure. Salty air, high humidity levels, and strong winds can do damage to your building if left unchecked.

Fortunately, metal buildings are some of the most resilient structure types on the market, and with a bit of proper maintenance, even the tough coastal climate won’t be a match. Below, we’ll provide you with a handy guide on how to keep your coastal metal building looking its best.

Corrosion Resistance and Your Steel Building

One of the biggest challenges metal buildings face is corrosion. Salty ocean air can speed up oxidation and allow rust to form along your paneling, roofing, and framing. Luckily, many steel buildings carry multiple ways of fighting this:

Galvanized Steel

A layer of zinc is applied to steel framing and paneling during its creation, forming a protective barrier against moisture and rust.

UV-Resistant Coatings

In addition to galvanization, metal building paneling is treated with a layer of UV-resistant material that prevents harsh sun rays, dirt, and dings from tree branches compromise your structure’s integrity.

Metal Building Maintenance Tips

What’s the best way to maintain your metal building in a coastal climate? A little goes a long way. Let’s break down the steps you’ll want to take to keep your structure looking, and operating at 100%:

1. Inspect the Exterior

Check your structure for rust, scratches, dents, and signs of corrosion. Address any issues promptly to prevent larger problems down the line.

2. Wash Off Dirt and Salt Buildup

Rinse your structure with fresh water, especially in coastal areas, to remove salt and prevent corrosion.

3. Examine Roof and Gutters

Look for leaks, loose panels, and clogged gutters. Clear debris to maintain proper drainage.

4. Check Doors and Windows

Make sure doors and windows open and close smoothly and seal properly to prevent damage from water or pests.

5. Inspect Fasteners and Joints

Tighten loose screws, bolts, and fasteners. If you’re missing any, you’ll need to have them promptly replaced.

6. Look for Signs of Moisture Intrusion

Check the interior of your structure for water stains, signs of mold, or condensation, which could indicate leaks that may worsen over time.

7. Maintain the Foundation

Inspect the foundation for cracks or shifting that could compromise the building’s stability.

8. Re-apply Protective Coatings

Refresh paint, sealants, or galvanized coatings if they show signs of wear.

9. Lubricate Moving Parts

Apply lubrication to hinges, rollers, and other mechanical components to prevent rust and issues with operation.

10. Trim Vegetation Around the Building

Keep plants and trees from touching the structure to reduce moisture buildup and eliminate pest issues.

11. Monitor for Pest Infestations

Check for signs of rodents or insects and take preventive measures to prevent infestation. Luckily metal buildings are naturally resistant to pests and provide no natural source of food or bedding, so a simple inspection should do the trick.

Also Read: Maintenance Guide for Metal Building Kits

The Advantage of Regular Maintenance

Performing regular maintenance is one of the most cost-effective ways of keeping your structure looking and working at its best. It can increase your structure’s overall lifespan, prevent costly issues throughout the course of ownership, and help you protect warranties on your structure’s framing and paneling. In short, small steps today can have a huge impact on your building tomorrow.

Get Carports Is Your Source for High-Quality Steel Structures

Whether you’re building a simple backyard retreat or designing a state-of-the-art agricultural building, Get Carports wants to be your go-to solution for all things steel. Our structures are built with premium galvanized steel components, engineered to hold up to high winds and heavy snow, and made to go the distance for you, no matter the application.

They’re backed by a 20-year framing warranty on 12-gauge framing and a one-year craftsmanship guarantee on its installation. So, what are you waiting for? Call our experts today at (800) 691-5221 to start customizing your metal building. We’ll walk you through all the design steps, provide you with a FREE quote, and deliver results you can see, feel, and enjoy for years to come.