Commercial flat roofs might suffer over the winter, especially if you haven’t made any preparations. It could develop problems as a result of ongoing exposure to cold, snow, and ice, which could negatively affect the building as a whole. The membrane of a roof enlarges in heat and contracts in cold. One of the most important reasons to properly maintain your roof is because of these variations in its membrane. For that reason, having skilled commercial flat roofers clean and examine the roof of your building is a smart idea, and it should be done before the snow starts to fall.
How can your commercial roof be prepared for the impending cold, ice, and snow?
Here are some crucial pointers:
1. Record your last inspection
When your roof was last replaced and inspected are things you need to check. Knowing your roof’s maintenance history is crucial so that your roofing contractor can evaluate your roof appropriately. Even while there are several obvious and probable symptoms of roof problems, such as membrane deterioration, clogged drains, ponding water, and debris sitting on your flat roof, these problems could result in serious winter leaks. A roofing contractor will be aware of what to check for in the roof membrane, flashings, seams, structure, and rooftop equipment.
2. Call a professional and schedule an inspection
The roof of a commercial building needs to be well maintained because there is so much at stake. Negligence involving roofing issues can result in injuries to tenants, clients, and staff. The building’s owner may be held liable in court for these injuries. With routine inspections, you have a better chance of spotting minor roof issues before they grow and become considerably more expensive to fix. Most manufacturers require a roof check by a certified roofing contractor to preserve your roof’s warranty, and it will save you a lot of money by spotting problems early. Your roof will be examined by their certified inspector or contractor for damage indicators and potential trouble spots flashing that is rusted or fractured, rips in roofing membrane, loose roof edge, and any gaps or divisions.
3. Roof cleaning and maintenance
Following an examination, a roofing expert might advise you to do a few critical roof repairs before winter arrives. Your roof will fill with leaves, twigs, branches, and other debris as fall progresses. If ignored, they may cause damage. Winter storms and rainstorms both have the potential to carry collected material into your roof’s drainage system. This can lead to blockages forming and water beginning to pool, both of which can and will lead to issues. Your roof contractor should inspect your roof and gutters to make sure they are free of dirt and clean. Your roofing contractor may check your roof on a regular basis to keep it free of anything that helps you to maintain any damage on your commercial roof.
4. Maintain your roof surrounding
Checking for hazards is another approach to getting your commercial roof ready for the winter. Do any tree limbs dangle over your roof? If so, remove them. Trees in the area and limbs that hang over your roof provide a danger. Snow makes everything heavier, and heavier things can lead to tree limbs breaking and landing on your roof, possibly even penetrating the membrane. Your roofing specialist should keep an eye out for indicators of animal infestation while they are cleaning. If animals are accustomed to your rooftop, they can try to take refuge there to escape the cold and cause harm.
5. Clean gutters and debris
Keep gutters and the roof surface clean and clear. Your roof contractor should inspect your roof and gutters to make sure they are free of dirt and clean. Make sure all debris, branches, and leaves have been removed. Common offenders are plastic food bags, especially in and near shopping locations. Remove anything that doesn’t belong since it can block roof drains and gutters, preventing water from draining properly and resulting in pools of water on the roof’s surface
6. Timely repair for commercial roofs
Timely repairs can prevent the need for a complete replacement, increase the lifespan of your roof, and lessen the possibility that you will need to deal with an emergency leak under snow- or ice-covered roof membrane. Roof repairs are also possible in the winter. However, it is not advisable to wait until then to do repairs because winter repairs are more inconvenient for building residents and users.
Call Metro Roofing right away to find out more about our long-lasting, 30-year commercial roofing solutions. Because of our great customer service, use of only the best materials, and industry knowledge, our Toronto-area commercial roofing company has become a preferred contractor. Get a free estimate on roofing services by calling right away!