5 Signs Your Roof Isn’t Prepared For Winter Weather

Is your roof ready for winter? Commercial building owners and property managers know that summer is the best time to prepare for winter. If roofing problems are identified during warmer months, a reputable contractor can provide solutions before cold weather arrives. Then, they can address issues before they become much more challenging.

1. Clogged Gutters & Drains

Blocked gutters and poor drainage will contribute to rainwater and snowmelt runoff issues, resulting in moisture intrusion. Gutters and drains require periodic cleaning to ensure the best performance. An annual or semiannual inspection of the water management system also benefits the commercial building owner.

2. Damaged Flashing & Broken Seals

Worn flashing and cracked sealants surrounding roofing junctures, such as vents, skylights, and chimneys, invite moisture to infiltrate the surface. A responsible commercial building owner should involve an experienced roofing contractor to inspect these vulnerable areas at least once a year to minimize or eliminate water intrusion.

Commercial flat roof with roof protrusions that have flashing and seals

3. Inadequate Insulation

Poor or insufficient insulation creates numerous challenges for a commercial building owner. These issues include energy inefficiencies that lead to excess heat loss in winter months, causing the furnace to overwork to offset the loss. Additionally, insulation problems may create ice dams or condensation buildup.

4. Insufficient Ventilation

A lack of quality ventilation could damage the roof (e.g., warping of underlying roofing layers, buckling or loss of surface roofing materials, etc.). Poor ventilation also creates an imbalance of heat distribution under the roof’s outer surface, leading to the formation of ice dams. Most importantly, it prematurely ages the roof.

5. Structural Issues

Regions prone to heavy snow accumulation are more likely to experience roof sag or collapse. A commercial building owner must periodically assess the building’s structural integrity to ensure that it continues to meet the weight requirements. A building’s framework can change over time as outside conditions affect its performance.

Moser team members discussing commercial roofing project while kneeling on roof.

Building owners and commercial property managers in and around Lancaster, PA, can depend on Moser Roofing Solutions to provide prompt, professional, and reliable commercial roofing services. 

We specialize exclusively in commercial roofing and are the Mid-Atlantic’s leading experts in roof maintenance, inspections, repairs, restorations, installations, and replacements. Contact us today to learn more about how to winterize your commercial roofing system or schedule an appointment (and receive a free estimate).

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