How to Get Your Commercial Roofing Ready for Snow

You’ve completed your seasonal furnace inspection. The snow removal service is arranged for the parking lot. You’re working on cleaning up all the fallen leaves. Now, what about your roof? Is it ready for the snowfall headed your way this winter? To avoid having to call your commercial roofing company in Springfield, MA for repairs, take the following steps.

These tips will help you properly prepare your roof to withstand winter storms. With a few simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to maintaining a healthy roof this season.

Check for Leaks

Once the roof is covered with snow and ice, it’s hard to locate cracks and leaks. Before the first snowfall, check all walls for signs of leaks. Stains, cracks and missing brick mortar are red flags that you have a leak issue. Be sure to seal these before winter sets in so you can avoid further damage, as well as increase the efficiency of your furnace.

Inspect for Damage

Leaks aren’t the only thing you should look for as you complete your pre-winter roof inspection. Are any materials loose? Is the roof decking or fascia deteriorated? If any membranes look thin or any joints have moved or split, these issues should be repaired before winter. Ask your commercial roofing company in Springfield, MA to make repairs to any chimney flashings, caulking, vent pipes or other areas that require adjustments to avoid water infiltration.

Watch for Drainage

Once snow piles up, it must be able to drain properly from your roof when it melts. Make sure all drainage systems are in good working order before winter sets in. Check downspouts, gutters, strainers and clamping rings. Make sure flashings are in good shape. If snow piles up over the flashings, your roof may leak. The entire drainage system needs to be functioning properly to prevent structural damage.

Prepare for Ice

Since you can’t prevent snow and ice this winter, it’s important to prepare for it. Be ready with a plan of action once it falls. Inform your employees of the dangers of ice. Don’t allow anyone to traverse the rooftop during freezing conditions (typically after dark or before 10 a.m.), as this is likely to result in falls. If you will need to access your roof in the winter, it might be a good idea to install heat trace cables that will melt the snow and ice to clear a safe path to roof drains. Additionally, train personnel on how to safely remove snow from the roof in case this task becomes necessary.

Stay Ready

One of the best ways to stay ready for winter (and every season) is to partner with a local commercial roofing company in Springfield, MA for all your roofing needs. Knowing whom you can call when you need repairs can make all the difference. For professional installations, repairs and maintenance, partner with the pros at R & H Roofing. Since 1987, our team has remained one of the most trusted names in the roofing industry. We specialize in commercial roofing and offer a wide variety of roofing systems.

Categorised in: Commercial Roofing Company

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