You may not want to think about it just yet, but, whether you like it or not winter is on the way. So now is the time for business owners to ask themselves a crucial question. Is your business’ roof weatherproof?
Winter storms and low temperate can cause severe damage to your roof which may result in business disruptions, costly repairs or devaluation of your property. This is why your building should be properly inspected before and after winter to ensure it’s in good condition.
For business owners who need to ensure the roof of their commercial building is in good shape during the winter months, here are 5 winter roofing tips:
1. Schedule a Roof Inspection
One of the major causes of early roof damage is failing to discover and repair existing deficiencies. As the risk of roof failure increases with lower temperatures, it is important that you inspect your roof before the start of winter. You should also carry out inspections after the season is over as winter storms can damage your facility’s roof. Some of these damages could be punctures in membranes, gaps, loose tiles or shingles, etc. These damages can also result in leaks causing mold that can threaten your health and the health of your employees.
Here are some roofing maintenance tips you should be aware of:
- Old metal roofs should have a protective coating applied to protect it from the harsh cold weather.
- A roofing professional should inspect the roof, check for wet insulation, and seal any exposed joints in the roof.
- If your roof has brick stacks, plumbing stacks or antennas, check the sealer around the base. If the sealer and caulk is worn out, have a roofer replace the sealant to avoid any leaks
- Check your roof’s chimney to ensure there are no loose or missing bricks
- Inspect the framework of your roof for any signs of sagging before the winter storms begin.
Proper examination and repair of roofs require expert knowledge. Get a professional roof contractor to check your roof for damages. Fix any issues before snow and ice hit your facility’s roof. Contacting a roofing company now will save you from unforeseen disruptions or costly repairs in the long run.
2. Clear out Debris
When snow and ice melt on your roof, the water needs to drain off. It is important to make sure your roof and drainage system are free of leaves, twigs or any other debris. Clogged drains can cause water to accumulate on your rooftop, which can result in leaks and costly repairs. Heavy debris on your roof can also affect your roof valleys causing wear and tear that leads to leaking roofs. If you are not comfortable climbing a ladder to check your roof, get a contractor from a roofing company to help you maintain your roof. You should also check that your gutters are securely tightened to your building to prevent overflow. Overflowing gutters can cause damage to your roof and the outer walls of your building.
3. Assess the Entire Vicinity
While it is essential to inspect your roof for impending damages, you should also consider the condition of your building’s surrounding areas to make sure there’s nothing that could cause damage later.
- If there is a parking lot around your building, make sure you have a snow removal plan. Remove snow from the parking lot regularly to prevent accidents. You can also sprinkle rock salt on the snow to boost vehicle traction.
- Trees around your building can become hazardous. During a winter storm, tree branches can land on your roof. Ensure there is a safe distance between the trees and your commercial building.
- Inspect your property regularly. Finding potential problems early will allow you to remedy the situation before it worsens.
4. Check the Ventilation of Your Attic
You may not realize it but, your attic and roof are interconnected. Poor insulation or ventilation of your attic can make your roof vulnerable to winter elements like snow and ice. During your winter roofing maintenance, ensure there are sufficient insulation and airflow in your attic. This will go a long way in protecting your roof during winter.
5. Stay Off Of Your Roof
While it may be tempting to save money by removing snow yourself, this should be left to the professionals. Climbing a roof covered with snow and ice is not a good idea. The condition of the roof can cause you to slip fall, leading to serious injury or death.
Don’t attempt to clear the snow on your rooftop alone.
If you suspect a roofing problem, call a professional roof contractor.
Make sure kids and pets are kept out of harm’s way during roofing inspection and repairs.
6. Always Monitor Your Roof
During cold weather, make sure you monitor your roof regularly. Roofs that are well maintained are not as susceptible to leaks and damage. No matter how small the roof leak of your facility is, it is important to repair it in a timely manner before it gets worse.
When you are preparing your facility for winter, never forget to prioritize the inspection of your roof. Neglecting proper inspection, failing to correct defects and winterizing your roof is a recipe for disaster. With quality roof preparation, you will be able to relax and have peace of mind when the winter weather arrives.