Roof inspections in the fall and spring are commonly recommended for a reason, and that reason is winter. Winter months bring snow, ice, hail, and more, all of which can take a serious toll on your commercial roof. Fall inspections and repairs prepare your roof for the snowy season, while spring inspections allow you to locate and repair any damage the winter weather may have caused.
Unfortunately, even when business owners or property managers are vigilant about inspections before and after winter, disaster can still strike. These are the main concerns for your commercial roof when the snow begins to fall.
Heavy Weight
Some winters bring more snow than others, but snow is almost always heavy. This extra weight adds unnecessary pressure on your roof which can cause cracks, leaks, or worse. If you have a flat, commercial roof, you may face even greater risks. This stems from the roof’s inability to naturally shed the snow like a sloped roof, making it unable to relieve the pressure forced against it.
Freeze-Thaw Cycle
The freeze-thaw cycle is detrimental to almost any material you leave outdoors. Rubber roofs may be especially vulnerable because the material expands and contracts with temperature changes. This can lead to flexing, warping, and premature repairs.
You might think of freeze-thaw cycles as occurring between the warm and cold months. However, thermal shock happens almost every day when temperatures drop at night.
How to Protect Your Roof
If your roof does not naturally shed the snow, removal services can help to alleviate some of that weight. This is a dangerous job that involves potentially slipping on ice, several stories above the ground. Because of this, property managers should not attempt this. Hire trained professionals that are bonded, licensed, and insured.
Another good plan is to make full use of any warranty on your roof for as long as you can. This helps protect its longevity. Even when outside of warranty, if contractors discover a need for repairs or replacement, do so promptly. More often than not, the longer you wait, the worse the potential damage.
If you notice any problems with your commercial roof this winter, contact the professionals at Tidewater Roofing. With prompt repairs and our 24/7 emergency services, we won’t let a little (or a lot) of snow ruin your winter season.
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