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How to Be Prepared for Commercial Roofing Issues This Winter

By Applied Roofing Services

Dec 07, 2021

Roof Maintenance

Roofing in Winter

Roof maintenance during winter is considered the most taxing activity. The weather patterns during the cold season can take a massive toll on even the most durable systems.  So, it’s essential to consider potential roofing issues and know how to deal with them.

How to Winterize Your Flat Roof

  • Have the right flat roofing with sealants and membranes for application.
  • Make sure that the roof inspection is done in the fall to leave enough time for repairs.
  • Check the seals, drainage, and edging. Remove any debris and clear your roof’s drains.
  • Check for other minor repairs, such as membrane repair.

Can You Repair Your Roof During the Winter?

If you are planning to install roof shingles (100/m) during the winter, do so when the temperature is between 40 and 85 degrees so that they don’t become brittle. Nail down through the double shingle layer to ensure that you don’t blow through it. CASMA recommends using weather membranes to seal the eaves, valleys, and vents rather than weather roll roofing as it can wrinkle when applied in cold weather.

Also, Read - All About Ice Dams and How to Prevent Them

What Is the Best Roof for Snow and High Winds?

  • Asphalt shingles – Handles high-speed winds.
  • Wood shakes – Withstand heavy rains, hailstorms, and hurricanes.
  • Metal – Holds against wind and accompanying debris.
  • Slate – Protects the roof from being blown off during strong winds.

How Can You Replace a Roof in Winter?

Although some might tell you to avoid replacing a roof in winter, working with an experienced roofing crew will help. A knowledgeable crew will ensure that the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations are followed for sealants and temperatures, especially during the winter.

Also Read - What You Should Consider Before Installing Rooftop Solar Cells

How Can You Maintain Your Roof in Winter?

  • Remove snow from the roof as soon as possible.
  • Remediate all wind damage.
  • Check attic ventilation.
  • Clear all debris.
  • Repair the existing flashing.
  • Hire a professional for an inspection.

Ways to Prepare Commercial Roof for Winter

Fall is the time when you should start thinking about winterizing your commercial roof. Your roof can be affected in winter as its membrane contracts in the cold.  This contraction damages the commercial roof membrane due to freezing, thawing, and refreezing. Here are a few ways in which you can prepare your commercial roof for winter

  • Know the History of Your Roof

Keep in mind the age and the maintenance history of your roof and when it was last inspected. With this information, your roofing contractor can assess your roof’s condition and fix any damages or recommend changes, if needed.

  • Schedule an Assessment

Schedule an inspection of your roof before winter and identify small problems in your roofs before they become bigger r. A roofing contractor may inspect your roof for traffic pattern, drainage systems, base attachments, etc., for any contamination, moisture infiltration, wrongly installed roofing, or membrane seams.

  • Execute Suggested Repairs

After the inspection of your commercial roof, repair all the faults detected by the roofing contractor. A timely repair can save you from expensive replacements and even extend your roof’s life. It also reduces potential leaks from snow or ice-covered roof membrane.

  • Clean Your Roof Surface and Gutters

Your roofing contractor will clean up the gutters during the inspection. They can also periodically check your roof and clear off anything that is unnecessary.

  • Check the Surrounding of Your Roof

Make sure that no tree branches are hanging over your roof that might fall and cause substantial damage. Furthermore, snow adds weight to the trees, causing branches to break and penetrate your roof membrane. Despite trying your best to maintain your roof, you might fail to protect it from dangerous weather conditions. Nonetheless, having a proactive plan is still better than not having one.

Roofing in cold weather can be difficult. However, one must have patience coupled with careful planning to make all the difference to a winter roofing job.

If you’re looking for the best commercial roofing contractor in California, contact Applied Roofing Services to get the perfect commercial roofing solutions. Call us today at 714-632-8418 or get a quote online.

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