Metal Roof Repair Metal roofs have been popular with builders since ancient times. And they continue to be popular in the 21st century for essentially the same reasons that metal roofs appealed to Roman engineers: They are lightweight, durable, and relatively economical. An additional appeal in today's new construction market is that metal roofs can impart a traditional, historic look at a fraction of the cost of slate, tile, or wood shingles. If the metal roof on your manufactured home develops a leak, find the source and fix it right away. If you don't, your walls, flooring, insulation, woodwork, doors and windows can become permanently damaged. Finding the leak can be the most challenging part of the repair. Don't be surprised if a leak in your bathroom originated from a separated roof seam over your living room. When it comes to roof leaks, water does not always travel straight down. It could follow the truss system, it could seep down the sidewalls, or it could pool up in the moisture barrier until it finds an outlet. To get started, closely inspect your entire roof for possible leaks. Pay particular attention to:      The J-rail. The flashing around vents, pipes and skylights. The seams and roof sealant. All existing rumble buttons (don't add anymore!). Any rusted or worn-looking areas. You should also make sure you have a roof leak and not a condensation problem. See our article on identifying a Roof Leak for information on how to tell the difference. If you can't find the leak, you may need to coat the entire roof, which needs to be done every two years anyway. Seal a Metal Roof Leak Before you patch the hole, carefully inspect the rest of the roof. Especially check all seams, seals and flashings. If the damaged is extensive, you can make repairs by covering an entire width of the roof. This could be both easier and more effective than installing multiple patches. Step 1: Identify the metal that the roof is made of, and get a piece of the same metal to make a patch. Step 2: Clean the damaged area with all-purpose cleaner and let it dry, then go over it with a wire brush to remove debris. Step 3: Cut a patch at least 2 inches larger than the damaged area. Step 4: Use tin snips to cut the corners off the patch. Step 5: Fold the edges under about 1/2 inch, and sand the folded parts until they're shinier than the rest of the patch. Step 6: Put flux both on the surface to be patched and along the folded edges of the patch. Step 7: Put the patch into place and weight it with a cinder block or brick. Step 8: Hold solder to the seam, and use a soldering iron to heat it until it melts and runs under the patch. Step 9: Follow the patch all the way around with the solder and soldering iron. Try not to leave any open spaces, or the patch will be ineffective. Step 10: Cut a pair of patches larger than the hole. Step 11: Coat the roof area with roofing cement. Step 12: Press one patch over the area and apply another coat of cement. Step 13: Repeat with the last patch and a final coat of roofing cement.