Winter weather is especially hard on your roof. The snow and ice and the freezing and thawing can create several problems that may lead to costly roofing repairs if not adequately addressed. Our latest article looks at winter roof problems.
Condensation
When warm air meets a cold surface, condensation will occur. Additionally, inadequate ventilation can damage your roof, the decking and encourage ice dams and shorten your roof’s overall lifespan by half. Excess water in the area of the roofing materials can also lead to damage, particularly around the seams, so be sure to inspect your commercial roof regularly and work with your commercial roofing contractor to get the proper ventilation and other systems in place to minimise this type of damage.
Evaluate your roof’s surroundings
Are there tree branches hanging over your roof? If so, cut them down. Surrounding trees and limbs hanging over your roof are a hazard. Snow adds weight and that weight can cause tree branches to break onto your roof and possibly penetrate your roof’s membrane. Even the best preventive maintenance might not fully protect your roof from extraordinary weather events or extremely high winds. But being proactive and having a plan is better than no plan at all.
Wind damage
During the winter months your roof might be exposed to a higher-than-normal level of wind and other unfavourable weather conditions. While there is no way to control what mother nature might bring, there are ways you can reduce the risk of roofing damage from wind, rain, and freezing condensation such as sleet or snow. Start with a roof inspection before winter weather comes if possible and check for areas where the seal between strips of commercial roofing material might be coming loose, signs of standing water or water damage, or things like rusted flashing and metal fasteners.
Watch for ice dams
Watch out for ice damming, which occurs when internal building temperatures cause rooftop ice to melt from the underside, allowing water to get under the roof covering and leak into the building. To help prevent this, clean your gutters and downspouts before winter arrives. You may also want to consider installing gutter guards to help keep them clear throughout the season.
Know the history of your roof
Keep in mind the age and the maintenance history of your roof and when it was last inspected. With this information, your roofing contractor can assess your roof’s condition and fix any damages or recommend changes, if needed.
Unless you are experienced in winter roofing, it is best to call a professional roofing contractor like us here at All Seasons Industrial Roofing to address the issues listed above. Roofing is dangerous throughout the year, but winter weather makes it even more so. A professional roofer has the knowledge and experience to safely address winter roof issues with minimal risk.
For further advice on industrial and commercial roof issues and to arrange an inspection, please contact us here: London Office | Midlands Office
