Winter is arguably the most trying season for residential and commercial structures alike, particularly the roof. This is the season where even minor problems can potentially turn into full-blown roofing disasters. Apart from becoming very costly, it also presents an immediate danger, especially in areas where the winter is considerably harsh.

Winter-proofing your place of business’ roof is your priority once the seasons turn colder, and ideally, you should start near the end of the fall season. Strengthening your roof against snow, ice, and wind doesn’t necessarily mean fortifying it, though; sometimes, you just need to ensure that it’s in peak condition once the cold sets in.

Determining the Damage

The first step to winter-proofing the roof is checking for any existing damage. No matter how minor the damage or if it’s just a loose tile or a gutter that needs cleaning, you need to list down the ‘problem’ areas and address them immediately. Cleaning out the roof’s gutters, for example, reduces the possibility of ice dams forming, which can physically damage the structure of the roof.

Leaks, in particular, should be your priority when it comes to assessing existing roof damage. No matter how small and insignificant the leak or hole on the roof is, you need to have them patched up and repaired as they can become entryways where snow can come into your home. Snow itself is surprisingly heavy and can even make the hole larger or start a cave-in at worst.

It’s Not Over After Winter

Most business establishments have flat roofs and while they are considerably stronger than the usual pitched roof for smaller businesses and homes, they are more susceptible to winter damage after the actual season. One of its weaknesses is that water can’t exactly drain properly unless there’s some major drainage on the roof itself, and snow and ice dams can compromise even that.

When the snow melts, water damage to the roof becomes a real threat. Before this happens, you need to check if the roof has existing structural aberrations, such as hairline cracks, as these can cause leaks to start forming. If you see a dark patch inside your building on the ceiling, then there’s a leak and you need to have them patched up before the snow starts melting.

At Collins Roofing Inc. , we know how important it is to prepare your business’ roof for winter. We provide fast, reliable, and long-term solutions that address your roofing problems and restore its structural integrity.