Preventative Maintenance Tips for Commercial Roofing Systems

Nov 16,2015

Commercial roofing in Calgary comes with a unique set of challenges. The winters in Calgary are long and cold and preventative maintenance can save businesses time, money and hassle by being prepared and ready for any winter weather. The freeze/thaw cycle is what property owners need to worry about when it comes to their commercial roofing system.

How Does the Freeze/Thaw Cycle Affect Commercial Roofing Systems?

When ice builds up it adds additional weight that can affect the structural integrity of the roof and/or damage the membrane. Also, ice formations that move with the change in temperature can cause considerable damage to the membrane. This is called “scrubbing”. Finally, any existing defects in the roof, especially the older and more damaged the commercial roofing system is, the more the freeze/thaw effect will have the potential to do serious damage to the structure. The freeze/thaw effect is particularly prevalent with winters in Calgary and property owners can take preventative measures, with the assistance of a Calgary roofing contractor, to ensure the integrity of the roofing system throughout the winter.

Preventative Maintenance Tips for Commercial Roof Winterization

1.  Identify Leaks Before the Snow Falls

The autumn is the best time to identify leaks before the snow falls and sticks around. It is very challenging to find and repair leaks on a roof covered in snow and at times it is a high risk situation for contractors. It is best to locate leaks in the roof before snow falls and ice builds for everyone involved.

2.  Have an Inspection Performed

A detailed inspection is a preventative maintenance tip that can save a lot of cost and stress come the winter. An inspection will give an accurate idea of what is really going on with the roof and will spot weaknesses and issues before they become large, damaging and costly. Commercial property owners need to know that the roof protects tenants, employees and valuable assets. A roof inspection for preventative and maintenance purposes is well worth the minor investment when compared to the safety of inhabitants and to protect more valuable investments under the roof.

3.  Repair and Prepare the Roof for Winter

If there are any issues with the roofing system a Calgary roofing contractor can repair the roof in time for the winter months. There is also prep work that can be performed to ensure the roofing system holds strong throughout the cold and wet seasons including work on the curbs, flashing, ducts and skylights. Preventative maintenance saves costs in the long term and increases the lifespan of the roofing system. A high quality commercial roof can last decades with the right contractor, care and maintenance. Royal Roofing Ltd. is expert at commercial roofing in Calgary including preventative maintenance, repairs and roof winterization. Contact us to learn more about us and our services.