Winterizing A Commercial Roof for Ice, Snow and Cold
Summer isn’t the only time you need to think about your roof. With winter fast approaching, soon it’ll be time to prep your property for freezing temperatures. But in the process of doing so, a lot of property owners might overlook the roof.
In between scorching heat and mounds of snow, the roof takes a beating. So, when it comes time to hamper down for the winter, it’s important that roof is in mint condition.
Get an Inspection of The Roof
Before you can winterize your roof, you need to look for any potential damages. While you are able to check if there is any damage from the ground, you’ll have much better results if you hire a professional roofing contractor to go up on the roof. Having an up close and personal look at your roof will help you find things like weak spots.
Take a Look at the Gutters
After making sure there aren’t any noticeable weak spots and damage, homeowners need to inspect gutters too. Some people only clean their gutters during the fall season. However, it’s equally as important to check them during before cold weather sets in as well. Without the proper maintenance, gutters won’t be able to drain the melted snow due blockage of ice. This can a lot of problems to the exterior and interior of your home. When your gutters are blocked, excess runoff can’t drain properly. If left unchecked, it could seep through the walls inside your home.
Inspect the Caulking
Caulk is a type of sealant that prevents leaks, however, it doesn’t last forever. It will eventually start to wear out and will need to be replaced. If you notice that some of the caulk is wrinkled, crumbling or missing, replace it as soon as possible. While you’re at it, make sure to take a quick look at your flashings. Just like with the caulk, replace the flashings if they’re damaged, loose or missing.
Look For Any Damages From Pests
The harsh winter weather isn’t all that can cause damage to your roof. Pests are known for causing extensive damage while trying to find shelter from the elements. You might not even know there’s an issue until you go up and take a look. If you do find small animals or insect nests, play it safe and call a professional for removal.
It’s best to call a commercial roofing company for maintenance & repairs prior to cold weather setting in. This will save you both time and money in the long run.
