How snow and ice affect your commercial roof
Winter weather can pose significant challenges for commercial roofs, particularly when snow and ice accumulate.
Understanding how these conditions affect your roof and taking preventative measures can help you avoid costly damage and downtime for your business.
Here, we explore the impact of snow and ice on commercial roofs and why regular roof surveys are essential.
Increased weight load
One of the most immediate concerns during heavy snowfall is the additional weight on your roof.
Flat or low-slope commercial roofs are particularly vulnerable to stress from accumulated snow and ice, as they lack the natural drainage system of pitched roofs.
If the weight exceeds your roof’s capacity, it can lead to severe structural damage, sagging, leaks, or even collapse, jeopardising the building’s safety and functionality.
Ice dam formation
Ice dams occur when melting snow refreezes at the edges of the roof, creating a barrier that prevents proper drainage.
As water backs up behind the ice dam, it can seep under roofing materials and cause leaks, insulation damage, and interior water damage.
Over time, this can compromise your building’s energy efficiency and lead to costly repair needs.
Freeze-thaw cycles
Repeated cycles of freezing and thawing can cause significant wear and tear on roofing materials.
Water that seeps into cracks or seams expands as it freezes, widening these openings over time and weakening the integrity of the roof.
These cycles accelerate roof deterioration, making early detection and timely maintenance critical for preventing major damage.
Blocked drainage systems
Snow and ice can clog gutters and downspouts, leading to water pooling on the roof.
This standing water can freeze during colder temperatures, increasing pressure on the roof’s surface and contributing to ice dam formation.
Over time, water buildup accelerates the deterioration of roofing materials, weakening their integrity and raising the risk of leaks. Clearing debris and scheduling professional inspections are crucial to ensure drainage systems remain fully operational during winter.
Membrane Damage
Cold temperatures and the weight of ice can cause roofing membranes to crack or tear, compromising the roof’s protective barrier.
As ice expands and contracts during freeze-thaw cycles, small weaknesses can quickly worsen, creating pathways for moisture infiltration.
This type of damage often goes unnoticed until leaks develop, leading to costly repairs.
What’s the solution?
To protect your commercial roof from the damaging effects of snow and ice, consider a multi-faceted approach.
Ensure your roof is designed to handle local snow loads and that drainage systems are effective in preventing water build-up.
Proper insulation and ventilation reduce the risk of ice dams by maintaining consistent roof temperatures, while routine maintenance helps to catch and repair small cracks before they worsen.
Regular roof surveys are crucial, as they help identify structural vulnerabilities, improve energy efficiency, and ensure drainage systems are functioning properly.
Investing in these preventive measures will safeguard your roof, minimise repair costs, and prolong its lifespan during winter months.
Protect your roof this winter with NWIR
Don’t wait for winter weather to take its toll on your commercial roof.
Schedule a roof survey today to ensure your building remains safe, secure, and operational throughout the season.
Contact our team to book a roof survey now and protect your commercial property from the damaging effects of snow and ice. Simply give us a call today on 0800 046 1500 – we’re happy to answer any questions you may have.