A 4-Step Guide to Preparing Your Commercial Roof for Winter

Harsh winter weather can significantly impact the condition of your commercial roofing system. Heavy snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can cause major external and interior damage. But how do you prepare?

Step 1: Be Aware of the Warning Signs

It’s important to spot the warning signs so that you can address them before they become severe. What to look out for:

• Water stains
• Dripping water
• Musty odors
• Sagging ceiling
• Peeling paint or wallpaper on interior walls
• Increased energy bills
• Visible damage to exterior walls

Step 2: Schedule a Professional Inspection & Check your Warranties

Getting your roof ready before winter is the key to preventing problems later. It’s essential to schedule a complete roof inspection where trained professionals will look for signs of wear, damage, or any issues that could worsen during winter. Making necessary repairs while the weather is still nice can help avoid larger problems. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends routine inspections and maintenance twice annually, usually in the spring and fall.

Additionally, many commercial roofing material manufacturers require annual roof inspections to keep your warranty valid. Knowing what your warranty covers can save you money. Check the details and follow the guidelines. Understanding this information can help you avoid extra expenses down the line.

Step 3: Plan for Rooftop Snow Removal

Rooftop snow build-up can lead to various damages or injuries. This is why commercial property owners must understand the risks associated with rooftop snowfall. Here are just a few reasons why removing snow from commercial buildings is vital:

• Prevent structural damage by reducing excess weight from snow loads.
• Icicles can form and dangle over the edge of the building. It is important to remove large icicles that have the potential to fall and cause property damage, or worse, injure a person below.
• When snow builds up, it will become denser (especially when paired with sleet, rain, or ice).
  • This will add pressure to the roof and increase the probability that water will run down when heat escaping the building melts the snow.

Step 4: Choosing a Regular Maintenance Plan

After your inspection, choose a roof maintenance plan that works for your commercial property and will address the following potential wintertime hazards:

• Clearing Away Debris from Roof Drainage

During the fall season, the vibrant colors of autumn leaves are stunning, but soon they turn into a soggy, brown heap that can clog your drains and gutters. Once snow falls and covers the leaves, branches, trash, and other debris, it is harder to clear them.

A key part of preparing a commercial roof for winter is ensuring that gutters, drains, and downspouts are debris-free. If these drainage components are blocked, water can pool on the roof, which may result in leaks or ice buildup. Ponding water from blocked gutters can damage the building’s exterior and foundation. Having drainage systems cleared before winter arrives helps ensure that water flows smoothly, lowering the chance of damage to the roof and the overall commercial property.

• Evaluation of Surrounding Trees and Hazards

If trees or large branches are close to your building, they should be checked for potential threats. Heavy snow and ice can cause branches to break and fall, harming your commercial roof or its occupants. Falling branches might tear the roof membrane or damage the structure. Trimming back nearby branches lowers the chance of roof damage and helps keep your property safer during storms.

• Checking for Proper Insulation

Good insulation is essential for keeping your building warm in the winter and lowering energy bills. If insulation is damaged, it can lead to higher heating costs and moisture issues in the roof. It’s important to fix or replace any damaged insulation before winter arrives. Taking care of your roof insulation now can save you money on energy bills and help keep your building comfortable as temperatures change.

What will be Evaluated?

1. Air leaks that can cause heat loss, so checking for and sealing any gaps or holes is important.
2. Inspectors will look for mold and water stains on the insulation or rafters, damp spots, or other signs of mold.
3. Checking for adequate ventilation through soffit vents, gable vents, or ridge vents. Proper ventilation helps regulate temperature and is essential for effective insulation.
4. Searching for signs of rodents and insects that can burrow into insulation, damage it, and cause it to lose effectiveness.

• Repairing Existing Commercial Roof Damage

Fixing remedial roof problems before winter arrives can save you from bigger and more expensive repairs later. Issues like tiny leaks, cracks, and loose parts can worsen with snow and ice, potentially causing serious damage and unexpected costs. By taking care of these repairs now, you can make your commercial roof last longer, reduce emergency repair bills, and keep your building running smoothly throughout the winter.

Winter rain and melting snow can seep into tiny cracks and become major leaks. A commercial roof’s primary function is to protect the interior space by preventing water from penetrating the building and causing damage.

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Expand your Knowledge with Relevant Blog Back Issues:

Making the Most of Your Commercial Roof Warranty (May, 2022)

Think it’s Too Early to Worry about Snow? Think Again (September, 2022)

Connecting the Top 4 Ways to Understand, Identify, Prevent, and Fix Freeze-Thaw Damage (September, 2023)

Wind Effect on Commercial Roofs (December, 2023)