Your business is important — you know what else is too? Your commercial roof! It’s easy to overlook, but as each season brings its own set of challenges, routine maintenance can make all the difference in keeping your roof — and your business, protected.
Here’s how to care for your commercial roofing year-round!
Springtime
Spring is all about renewal, but your roof might still be feeling the effects of winter. Heavy snow, ice, and wind can leave behind cracks and leaks, setting the stage for bigger problems down the line.
Here’s how to freshen things up this season:
- A Gutter Cleanout: A clean gutter is important. During winter, debris can accumulate, causing water to pool or back up into your building. Clearing gutters now will prevent that dreaded roof leak during the first spring rainstorm.
- Inspect for Any Damage: Winter can be brutal, which is why you need to check for cracks, missing shingles, or damaged flashing. These small issues can become costly repairs if left unaddressed.
- Preventing Moss and Mold: Spring showers are great until you start to see moss and mold growth. Both can trap moisture and slowly degrade your roofing materials, so consider professional cleaning or treatment.
Summer
The summer heat can be just as harsh on your roof as winter’s snow. High temperatures and intense sun can cause materials to expand and contract, leading to splits or warping.
Here’s how to help your roof handle the heat:
- Inspect for Heat Damage: Extreme temperatures can cause cracks in your roofing material, especially in flat roofs, which are common in commercial buildings. Regular inspections can help you spot any signs of trouble.
- Consider Investing in Reflective Coatings: Applying a reflective coating can reduce heat absorption, keeping your roof and your building cooler. It can also extend the lifespan of your roof by preventing wear and tear.
- Sealants: Summer is the ideal time to apply or refresh any sealants on your roof. Proper sealing will protect against future water damage when fall and winter roll around.
Fall
Fall is your chance to prepare your roof for the wettest months of the year. With falling leaves and increasing rainfall, here’s how to get ahead of potential issues:
- Clean Your Gutters, Again!: Leaves and debris accumulate quickly in the fall. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow onto the roof, leading to leaks and structural damage.
- Check Your Drainage System: Commercial roofs usually have complex drainage systems. Check that all drains are clear and functioning correctly, ensuring rainwater doesn’t pool on the roof.
- Schedule a Professional Inspection: Fall is the perfect time to schedule a professional inspection. Identifying and fixing small problems now will help you avoid emergency repairs when winter sets in.
Winter
Winter brings snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, all of which can test the durability of your roof. To help it withstand the season’s challenges, here’s what you need to do:
- Check for Ice Dams: Ice dams form when heat from inside your building causes snow on the roof to melt and then refreeze at the edges. This can trap water on your roof and cause leaks.
- Remove Snow: While your roof may be built to handle snow loads, excessive buildup can lead to structural issues. Safely remove snow to reduce the risk of damage.
- Check for Leaks: Water can seep into cracks that were overlooked in previous seasons, freezing and expanding to worsen the damage. Keep an eye out for any signs of leakage inside the building and act quickly if you spot any.
Also Read: What are the Most Common Types of Commercial Roofing?
Commercial Roofs Built to Weather Seasons All Year Round
Maintaining your commercial roof through every season helps prevent leaks, prolongs its life, and protects you from costly repairs.
As a business owner, you have other matters to tend to. Between back-to-back business meetings and juggling clients, you probably don’t have the time to tend to your roof all on your own. That’s where Delta Roofing comes in! We offer expert commercial roofing services to keep your roof looking great all year round. Give us a call today!
