Roofs need attention because they take a significant beating from the elements more than any part of a building. Rain, flying debris, microorganisms, high winds, and more can take a toll on a roof. This is especially true with commercial roofs.
A commercial roof needs to be well-maintained because there is so much more at stake in a commercial building.
Tenants, customers, and employees can get injured from negligence related to roofing problems. The company that owns the building could be legally responsible for these injuries. So, if you are a property manager or business owner, ensuring your roof is in good condition will minimize the chances of legal issues.
Winterizing your commercial roof is an excellent way to quell potential problems and keep your building’s structure intact. Here are some ways to prep your roof for winter.
Start With a Professional Roof Inspection
One of the best things you can do to winterize your commercial roof is to get a roof inspection with a reputable company specializing in commercial roofing. Getting roof inspections at least twice a year is a good idea, especially before winter. A commercial roofing company will look for potential problems and encourage you to address them before winter weather makes the situation even worse and more expensive.
Get Leaks Sealed and Clean Gutters
After an inspection, a roofing company may suggest some essential roof repairs you will need to have done before winter sets in. One of the most critical will be to get leaks sealed. Holes and other openings in the roof leave it vulnerable to pest problems. Additionally, what may start as small holes may morph into even more significant, more costly ones after heavy snow and ice melt away in the spring.
It is also critical to get the gutter cleaned so that water can easily flow through them. Gutters full of clutter can fall off the building when ice from standing water builds up in them. This will result in replacement. A good cleaning before winter begins will prevent many problems once the snow and ice thaw in spring.
Check For Hazards
Another way to prepare your commercial roof for winter is to check for hazards. Here are some things that could put your roof in jeopardy of leaks and other damage.
Hanging Trees
One hazard that commercial roofers may suggest you address is the issue of hanging tree branches. Limbs and branches can hit the roof during high winds, which could cause holes in the roof. Hanging tree branches can also breaky and fall onto your commercial roof, causing substantial damage. Therefore, they may suggest you contact a tree company to trim away hanging branches.
Standing Water
Another potential hazard is standing water. It isn’t good to have standing water on a roof during any season. This can lead to wood rot and major leaks. During winter, it can freeze over and cause other problems. Before winter arrives, it is a good idea to address the issue of standing water on your roof, particularly if your commercial building has a flat roof. A professional roofing company will know to fix the problem with standing water on your roof by making repairs or replacing your roof.
Clean It
Besides checking for hazards, another thing you can do to get your commercial roof winter ready is to get it cleaned. While some commercial roofs may have a high slope, like the roof of a home, many commercial roofs are flat. This type of roof may collect dirt and debris such as sticks, twigs, honeycombs, leaves, and other gunk. This debris can be the perfect place for critters to nest and get into your commercial building throughout the winter.
These items can also get into gutters and clog them. Besides natural debris that may accumulate on top of your commercial roof, it is a good idea also to remove equipment, broken appliances, or other random items that may be on top of the roof.
Be Prepared to Get Snow Removal
While most commercial roofs are flat, they have enough slope to help snow and ice melt and flow away from the roof. However, there are times when snow and ice may build rapidly due to severe snow storms, and the snow and ice may not thaw fast enough. As a result, old snow and ice may remain as new snow and ice build-up, resulting in too much weight on the roof.
This could cause roof collapse. If the snow on your commercial roof isn’t moving away fast enough, prepare to have a professional snow removal company clear the snow to prevent roof damage.
Does your commercial building need repairs? Or is it time to replace your roofing entirely? Call MacDermott Roofing today to learn more about our Duro-Last roofing systems that provide lasting protection for up to 30 years. Our Detroit area commercial roofing business has been a preferred contractor for many reasons including excellent customer service, highest quality products, and our expertise in the roofing industry. Call for a Free Estimate on roofing services today!