Six Ways You Can Help Your Commercial Roof Survive the Winter

Winter is finally here, which means it’s time to take some precautions to keep your commercial building in top shape. It’s easy to overlook roof maintenance since it’s essentially out of sight, out of mind. However, if a winter storm hits, you’ll wish you had done some preventive maintenance.

General maintenance workers can’t always spot vulnerable areas in a roof. With the help of infrared detection technology, you can rest easy knowing the roof is in good shape. Here are six ways to ensure your commercial roof can survive the harsh winter season.

Inspect the HVAC System

All the ductwork, housings, pipes and condensation lines need to be checked closely. Infrared detection technology can help you see if there are any leaks or holes, which could mean condensation might leak to where it shouldn’t. Since the HVAC system and the roof work in conjunction with each other, inspecting your HVAC ductwork should be at the top of your list this winter.

Remove All Debris

Old autumn leaves need to be removed as quickly as possible. Not only does debris on your roof create unnecessary weight, it can also clog water drainage routes and potentially damage your roof as a result.

Check the Attic Insulation

Since heat rises, you may be unnecessarily heating up your roof if you have poor insulation in your attic. This could cause snow to melt at a quicker pace and also cause a freezing, melting and refreezing phenomenon. This could be potentially serious to the health of your roof. This is just another reasonit’s advised to do infrared testing to avoid costly shutdowns.

Trim Nearby Tree Branches

You should always keep tree branches trimmed away from your commercial roof, but doing so is especially important in the winter. The tree’s limbs could fall off and damage the roof or even rub a hole in it with constant contact. Plus, small animals will be looking for a warm place during the winter so overhanging branches give them easy access to your roof to potentially find holes to get into your building, leading to a new problem altogether.

Ensure Water Can Flow Easily Off the Roof

Any time water flow access is restricted, you’re setting yourself up for commercial roof failure. An infrared roof moisture survey can tell where water has been building up and where obstructions are. The last thing you want to happen is for water to build up on your roof or gutters and then freeze.

Schedule a Professional Inspection

The best thing you can do before the first winter storm is commission a professional infrared roof moisture survey. Peace of mind goes a long way in business, and knowing your commercial roof is in good shape prior to winter will be one less thing you have to worry about.

When you’re ready to have your infrared roof moisture survey completed, give us a call.