Conducting routine inspections of your commercial roof throughout the winter months is the best way to spot certain issues that can occur after heavy snow and cold temperatures. This will help you pinpoint issues and resolve them before they transform into something more troublesome.
Roofing maintenance is important, even during winter. As you conduct your brief inspections, these are the things you’ll want to consider doing as routine winter maintenance.
Clear Excess Snow
Whether the roof on your building is flat or pitched, snow removal is one of the best ways to avoid damage during the winter months. A single cubic foot of snow (depending on its density) can weigh up to 20 pounds. This can place a lot of pressure on existing structures and damage the materials that make up your roof.
Clearing away excess snow will also help with drainage, prevent water damage, and reduce ice buildup.
Melt Any Ice Buildup
Speaking of ice, it’s one of the top causes of gutter drainage failures during the winter months. Ice dams prevent water from draining off your commercial roof. This can lead to even more snow and ice buildup, which will undoubtedly lead to further issues before the winter is over. Ice is heavier than snow, and the pressure it puts on your roof can be immense. It also prevents water from draining off the roof, which can be a real problem for flat roofs. When water is allowed to pool on a flat roof, leaks are bound to occur into the existing structure below.
Professional ice removal will help keep your roof clear of ice and water buildup throughout the winter.
Make Sure Drains Are Clear
Heavy winds, small critters, and many other environmental factors can lead to clogged drains. All manner of leaves, sticks, and even mud can clog a drain and/or downspout, preventing water from properly flowing off your roof. This issue is particularly important to address as temperatures rise and the snow and ice begin to melt. You’ll want to make sure all drains are free of debris so that no water pools anywhere on your roof.
Inspect Problem Areas
If the roof is clear enough, visually inspect all seals, corners, or any areas where you have had damage or issues in the past. Look for cracked, chipped, flaked, or missing materials, as this is a sign that water may be seeping into the underpart of your roof. If you notice any substantial damage, contact a professional roofing company to have the area repaired quickly.
Having issues with your commercial roof? Need something replaced? Contact the Commercial Roofing Experts at Schmidt Roofing Today!
