Your roof takes some of the heaviest brunt of weather and often we take it for granted. The roof stays up through snow and rainstorms and we likely don’t think too much about it beyond an occasional inspection or maintenance order as things come up. But considering the vital role your roof plays on the safety and well-being of your property, it’s important to keep a close eye on its health and maintenance, especially after particularly stormy seasons.
It’s not uncommon in Michigan for winter temps to linger well into Spring. So, although you may be ready for a Season change, your roof may not. Having caution from the winter elements well into Spring will help your roof year-round.
Below are some of the issues that can pop up for your commercial roof after heavy precipitation shifting temperatures.
Ice Dams on Your Roof
This is a pretty common issue after snowstorms and particular during the time of year when temperatures fluctuate. Ice dams form when snow on the roof melts. As it moves down the roof, it can refreeze as a result of hitting a cold portion of the roof or getting trapped there when night comes and the temperatures drop. This accumulation can build to create a blockage that keeps melted snow from draining, increasing the weight on your roof, and risking damage or collapse.
Excess Roof Moisture
Your roof is used to moisture, but snow and ice can exacerbate the issues that can come from too much moisture. As the temperatures fluctuate, freeze and thaw will be trapped on your roof as ice and water and often sit for some time. This moisture build up can wear away at weak portions of the roof, causing rot or mold to build up and compromising the roof’s integrity. This is why it’s vital to have a drainage system for the accumulation on your roof.
Roof Collapse
Your roof weighs a lot on its own and is designed to withstand some added weight, but sometimes it can become too much. One cubic foot of snow can weigh anywhere between 12 and 20 pounds. And if you’ve got a big enough roof, we’re talking several tons of added weight onto a roof that may not be able to withstand it. If you experience a big snowfall, you need to get it off your roof as quickly as possible to prevent a potential collapse or safety compromise.
Additional Questions
What do I do if I have a flat roof?
A flat roof prevents natural movement of any melt and can cause melted snow and ice to linger, damaging the roof and putting extra weight on it. If you have a flat roof, it’s important to call a snow removal team after heavy snowfall to get the roof clear.
When is it the best time to remove snow from the roof?
If you have six inches of snowfall or more, it’s important to get it removed rather than waiting for it to melt. Fresh snow is easier to move than snow that has melted and refrozen and become more compact. So remove it as quickly as possible to avoid damage.
Commercial Roof System with Long Term Benefits
A Duro-Last Roofing System helps with all these issues and more. By installing a single-ply membrane that is precision fabricated, your investment will mitigate and help solve your roofing issues as well as save you money and extend the life of your industrial roof. It is also safe for the environment, waterproof and more resistant to fire than other roofs among other benefits.
MacDermott Roofing is an Elite Master Contractor and leading expert of the Duro-Last Roofing System throughout the Detroit area. We have been maintaining commercial roofs for more than 45 years with a reputation for excellence. Our roofing services include commercial roof repair, new roof installation, commercial roofing support for contractors and more.
If you are looking for commercial roofing services or installation, we work with all roofing systems and are happy to help. Contact us for a Free Estimate Today!