Preparing your commercial roof for winter is crucial to protecting the building from storm damage and keeping occupants comfortable during the winter’s bitter cold. So, before the cold temps and snow arrive, take some time to ensure your commercial roof is ready. You can either perform these tasks yourself, if you feel comfortable and have the proper safety equipment, or contract with a professional to provide yearly winter roof maintenance.
Winter commercial roof maintenance tasks
Clean rooftop
Remove any debris, chemicals, grease/fats from the surface of the roof and clear the roof drains and downspouts. This helps prevent mold, mildew, or rotting. A lack of drainage can lead to ice dams, leaks, and potential damage to the building’s exterior and foundation.
Check for pest/animal infestations
If you see signs of animals or other pests, seek help from a pest control professional to address the issue. Animals may seek shelter in your building during the cold winter months if it isn’t addressed now.
Have a professional perform a roof inspection
An experienced roof inspector will look for signs of punctures or damage, cracking, gaps in flashings, drainage problems, and water ponding. With snow, rain, and freezing temperatures on the way, these signs of damage can be exacerbated during the winter months, potentially leading to leaks and building damage.
Trim trees that have branches near or hanging over your roof
To prevent limbs from causing damage during storms, trim back the branches or remove trees if necessary.
If any damage is found during the inspection, make repairs before the winter weather sets in
There are many reasons not to delay repairs, including the potential that winter weather could make any damage worse, many roofing products need to be kept warm before or during installation, and the additional safety risks inherent in working in colder conditions. Repairs made now will help ensure that your roof offers the best protection over the winter months.
Create a snow removal plan
A buildup of snow can damage your roof, as can improper removal. Contract with a professional snow removal company for regular services. Consider installing wind baffles and snow guards to help prevent additional damage from snow and wind.
What to do after a storm
After a storm occurs, it’s essential to inspect your building and the roof for damage. You can do this yourself or call a professional. Look for ponding, leaks, surface damage, ice dams, and structural stress. For more on the specifics of performing a post-storm roof inspection, check out our articles, “Checking Your Commercial Roof for Damage” and “Tips for Post Storm Roof Damage Assessment.”
If there is substantial roof damage, you may need to decide whether to repair, patch, or replace your roof. Our inspectors will work closely with you and your insurance company to determine the best course of action, taking into account the extent of the damage and the age of your roof. You won’t have to handle the decision alone, and our team is always here to help, either before a storm or after.