Preparing Your Commercial Roof for Winter

As Pennsylvania residents, we're no strangers to snow, high winds, and freezing temperatures. As a business owner in a climate with harsh winters, it's important to take precaution to potential damages to your facility caused by winter’s wrath. Whether your commercial roof is flat, sloped, or pitched, defending against snow and ice is crucial to preventing damage to your property.

Here are three ways to ensure your commercial roof is ready for all that winter has in store…

1. Schedule a Roof Inspection

Snow, rain, sleet, and ice are all form of moisture, and more moisture leads to more potential for leaks. Even the smallest leak can quickly become an expensive and disastrous problem. Matrix Roofing Systems can inspect your roof and take preventative measures to prevent against property damage. We'll check for any drainage areas, places where insulation can be improved, gutter performance, and more.

2. Check Nearby Areas

While we are happy to inspect your roof, masonry, gutters, and more, it’s also important to examine adjacent areas. Trees and neighboring buildings pose the threat of snow being blown or dumped on top of your building. Our team can identify potential hazards and advise accordingly.

3. Prepare an Action Plan

If you do end up finding yourself amidst a winter roof emergency, do you know how it will be handled? Eliminate the risk of delaying normal business operations even further by developing a plan of action ahead of time. Make sure your team has the contact information of your insurance company saved, and knows any relevant contractors and when it’s appropriate to call them.

If you have any questions about preparing your commercial property and roof for this upcoming winter, don't hesitate to rely on our team of seasoned professionals for answers. Contact us today to request an inspection.

Melting Snow and Your Commercial Roof

Winter is here – heavy snows, cold temperatures, and other winter effects tend to keep us indoors and focused on maintaining a comfortable indoor climate. However, it’s important not to forget about your commercial roof, especially when it snows! Commercial buildings with flat roofs are at increased risk of snow damage because of their wide spans and their low slopes. Those specific conditions can allow snow to melt with ease.

Heavy snow can add a considerable amount of weight to your roof and can affect its structure. Even a minor snowfall can have a major impact. Since moisture levels can vary significantly, it’s almost impossible to judge snow weight by depth. If you hear loud popping noises, see bends in metal or wooden support, or notice sagging, this means there is too much snow on your roof and it should be removed immediately.

Additionally, melting snow can also leak through your roof, causing distortion and structural damage that can be costly to repair. That’s why it is vital to develop a comprehensive snow removal plan so that snow does not sit on your roof for too long. Most importantly, this work should only be completed by professionals to avoid damaging the roof and to prevent accidents.

In any case, it’s always best to be proactive. In addition to removing the snow on your roof, you’ll get the longest lifespan out of your roof by having it professionally inspected regularly, making repairs when they are needed, and scheduling routine maintenance.

No matter what circumstances Mother Nature throws at your commercial roof, it’s best to be prepared and proactive. Matrix Roofing Systems, Inc. can ensure your building is ready for any weather condition, so give us a call today!