Weather can have a significant impact on commercial roofs during the winter months. The introduction of moisture to the interior of your roof can expose it to the growth of mold and other fungus. Snow or rain can seep into the roof itself, and then freeze, melt, and refreeze again, causing damage to the roof. Materials contract in the cold and can cause your roof to shift slightly, which can cause small hairline cracks. Over time, this freeze-thaw cycle weakens the roof’s protective layers and can lead to leaks and structural damage.

To prepare your commercial roof for severe weather conditions, there are a few things you can do. First, clean your gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent water damage and avoid the growth of mold and mildew. Second, trim trees and bushes around your building to prevent them from falling on your roof during heavy snowfalls.

Remember, your roof is one of the most important parts of your building. By taking a few simple steps, you can help protect it from costly damage caused by weather conditions. Stay safe and warm this winter!

Maintaining a harmonious relationship between trees and roof structures requires proactive efforts to
prevent potential issues. Here are some tips for maintaining trees in a way that supports roof health:

Pruning and Trimming:

Regularly prune trees to remove dead, diseased, or weak branches. This not only enhances the tree's
health but also reduces the risk of branches falling onto the roof during storms. Be sure to trim branches
away from the roof to prevent direct contact, minimizing the risk of damage and reducing the
accumulation of leaves and debris on the roof. And when you’re ready to add to your green exterior,
plant trees at a safe distance from the building, considering the mature size of the tree. This helps
prevent branches from overhanging the roof and reduces the risk of root damage.

Leaf and Debris Management:

Be sure to clean gutters regularly to remove leaves and debris that can accumulate and cause water
backup, leading to potential roof damage. And consider gutter guards that can help prevent leaves and
debris from entering the gutters, reducing the need for frequent cleaning. Our favorite tip!….Roof
Inspection — Conduct regular roof inspections, especially after storms, to identify and promptly address
any damage or issues. Remove any debris that may have accumulated.

Storm Preparedness:

Before storm seasons, consider preventive pruning to remove weak or overhanging branches that may
pose a risk to the roof during high winds and after severe weather events, inspect trees for damage, and
promptly address any issues. Fallen branches or damaged limbs should be removed carefully to prevent
further damage.

By combining regular maintenance practices, preventive measures, and professional assistance, you can
promote a healthy coexistence between trees and roofs. This approach helps minimize the risk of
damage to roofs while allowing you to enjoy the benefits of having trees on your property.

Snowfall can have a significant impact on commercial roofs during the winter months. The weight of
snow can exceed what the roof can handle, leading to bowing or sagging. Snow accumulation can also
cause uneven snow loads, even on sloped roofs. When snow melts, it can settle into any narrow gap or
crevice, refreeze into ice and expand, tearing open your roof material and creating the risk of roof leaks.

To prepare your commercial roof for severe weather conditions, there are a few things you can do. First,
clear snow from your roof regularly to prevent the buildup of snow and avoid the risk of roof collapse.
Second, ensure that your roof is properly insulated to prevent heat loss and reduce the risk of ice dams
forming on your roof.

Here’s a fun fact about commercial roofing: The “cool roof” trend has gained popularity in commercial roofing. Cool roofs are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than traditional roofs. They are often made of reflective materials or coated with reflective paint to improve energy efficiency by reducing the heat the building absorbs. This can lead to lower energy costs for cooling, and it also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing the urban heat island effect in densely populated
areas. Cool roofs are a practical and environmentally friendly innovation in commercial roofing.