When the leaves begin to fall, take that as a sign to get ready for winter. Your commercial roof works hard during the summer, sheltering your staff, equipment, and products from summer rains, hail, high winds, and soaring temperatures. It deserves some attention before it offers the same level of protection for winter.
How can you prep your commercial roof for the frigid temperatures, ice, and snow to come? Here are a few essential tips:
Inspect for Damage
First off, do a simple inspection yourself. Get up on your roof and look around, as long as you are certain it’s safe to do so. Early October is typically a great time of year to walk on the roof, as icy conditions are unlikely.
Review the condition of the surface and components for signs of damage. Check out the gutters, flashing, downspouts, scuppers boxes, and scuppers for wear and tear. Look for standing water, as water collection indicates a problem with drainage.
Remove Debris
Clean up any debris that may have collected. Leaves, branches, and all types of trash may have blown on top of your roof. Plastic grocery bags are common culprits, especially in and around shopping areas. Remove anything that doesn’t belong, as items can clog gutters and roof drains, impeding drainage and causing water to pool on the roof’s surface.
Review the HVAC
While you’re up there, take a look at your HVAC equipment. Does everything appear to be normal? Doors should be securely closed to prevent water from seeping into the building.
If you see items that you can’t remove or an issue with mechanics that you’re unable to address, contact a professional roofing or mechanical contractor accordingly.
Look Inside for Leaks
It’s also important to check the building’s interior for evidence of leaks. Staining is a major sign that water has gotten into your building, although the roof is not always at fault. But you do want to get to the bottom of where that water is coming from.
Call a Professional
The most valuable thing you can do for the health of your roof is to contact a professional roofing contractor to perform an annual inspection and do necessary preventative maintenance. Although it’s important to check your own rooftop, an expert will be able to do a more thorough and complete inspection. Then you can be truly assured that your roof is sufficient to perform properly throughout the winter.
Be sure to schedule your appointment as soon as possible, as winter weather can prevent a contractor from inspecting your roof and making any necessary repairs.
The lovely fall season grabs our attention with its crisp air and vibrant colors. But it also reminds us to get ready for the days to come. When it comes to preparing your roof for the winter, it’s best to get started sooner than later.