Winterizing Your Commercial Roof: A Guide from Your Roofing Experts

Winter can be particularly harsh on commercial roofs, leading to potential damage, costly repairs, and even leaks. To safeguard your investment, it’s crucial to take preventative measures to winterize your roof. Here’s a comprehensive guide from your trusted commercial roofing company, Cole Roofing:

Why Winterize Your Commercial Roof?

  • Prevent Water Damage: Winter storms can bring heavy snowfall and ice, leading to water buildup and potential leaks.
  • Protect Against Ice Dams: Ice dams can form along roof edges, causing water to back up and damage the interior.
  • Extend Roof Lifespan: Proper winterization can help prolong the life of your commercial roof.

Essential Winterization Steps

  1. Inspect for Damage: Before winter sets in, conduct a thorough roof inspection to identify any weak spots, leaks, or damage.
  2. Clear Debris: Remove any leaves, twigs, or other debris that can clog gutters and downspouts, preventing proper water flow.
  3. Inspect and Clean Gutters: Ensure gutters are free of obstructions and can handle heavy snowfall. Consider installing gutter guards to minimize debris buildup.
  4. Check for Flashing Issues: Inspect flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights for damage or wear. Repair any issues promptly to prevent leaks.
  5. Address Ice Dam Concerns: If ice dams are a recurring problem, consider installing ice melt systems or improving insulation to reduce heat loss.
  6. Apply Roof Coatings: Protective coatings can help shield your roof from harsh weather conditions and extend its lifespan. Consult with your roofing professional to determine the best coating for your specific needs.
  7. Schedule Regular Maintenance: Routine roof inspections and maintenance throughout the winter can help identify and address potential issues before they escalate.

When to Contact a Professional

While many winterization tasks can be handled by property owners, it’s essential to consult with a commercial roofing expert for:

  • Extensive damage or repairs
  • Complex roof systems
  • Ice dam prevention strategies
  • Roof coating applications

By following these guidelines and partnering with a reputable commercial roofing company like Cole Roofing, you can ensure that your roof is well-prepared to withstand the challenges of winter and remain in optimal condition for years to come. Contact our service department today. 

All Commercial Roofs Are Not The Same

Some systems are better for some applications than others. For example, PVC roofs are better on restaurant roofs than some other materials because they are highly resistant to exhaust grease and other substances. Highly reflective – “cool” – thermoplastic systems like PVC and TPO can add value to your bottom line, because they reduce the amount of heat penetrating your building, in turn reducing the energy needed to cool it. Cool roofing systems can also help extend the life of rooftop HVAC units and maintain the effectiveness of rooftop insulation.

Don’t guess….let Cole Roofing with over 100 years of experience help you select the right material for your budget and your best value.

Commercial Roofs Are Like Onions

Commercial roofs are like onions—they have layers! Just as Shrek wisely observed about ogres, the roof of your business consists of various components, including insulation. Let’s peel back those layers and explore the fascinating world of commercial roofing:

  1. Insulation Layers:
    • Just like an onion’s layers, commercial roofs have their own structure.
    • Beneath the outer roofing membrane, you’ll find insulation materials.
    • These layers provide thermal protection, regulate temperatures, and enhance weather resistance.
  2. Types of Commercial Roof Insulation:
    • Spray Foam: Popular for its high thermal resistance, soundproofing properties, and durability.
    • Fiberglass: Lightweight and cost-effective.
    • Polyisocyanurate: Offers excellent R-value (thermal resistance).
    • Extruded Polystyrene: Moisture-resistant and versatile.
    • Expanded Polystyrene: Budget-friendly and easy to install.
  3. Benefits of Proper Insulation:
    • Lower utility costs.
    • Extended roof lifespan.
    • Improved temperature control.
    • Enhanced structural integrity.

Remember, choosing the right insulation type ensures a well-protected and efficient commercial roof

Be Bold with Metal Roofing

if you’re considering a commercial roof upgrade, be bold—metal roofing has you covered!  Here are the top reasons to consider metal roofing.

  1. Durability:
    • Metal roofing is exceptionally tough and resistant to harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, extreme winds, snow, high heat, and bitter cold.
    • It expands and contracts without compromising its strength, reducing the risk of structural damage.
  2. Energy Efficiency:
    • Metal roofs excel in solar reflectance—they reflect the sun’s heat rather than absorbing it.
    • This can lower cooling costs, especially in hot climates.
    • Coating metal roofs with cool roof coatings further improves energy efficiency.
  3. Minimal Maintenance:
    • Metal roofs require relatively low maintenance.
    • Their durability prevents leaks and cracks, and the panels themselves need minimal attention.
    • Regular inspections and gutter cleaning are still necessary.
  4. Long Service Life:
    • Metal roofing systems can last 50 years or more with proper installation and maintenance.
  5. Recyclability and Eco-Friendliness:
    • Metal roofs are recyclable, making them environmentally friendly.
    • They contribute to sustainable building practices.
  6. Fire Resistance:
    • Metal roofs are non-combustible and provide excellent fire protection.
  7. Appearance and Installation Speed:
    • Metal roofs offer a sleek, modern appearance.
    • Their installation is efficient, saving time during construction.