Spring Roofing Tips for Commercial Buildings

Did you know that, depending on where you’re located in Minneapolis, you can expect between 36 and 70 inches of snow and ice yearly? Accumulation paired with strong winds and other winter weather can wreak havoc on your commercial roof. As the spring thaw begins, you’ll likely notice the common indicators of snow and ice damage to your commercial roof.

In this article, we’ll identify spring roofing tips, signs of snow and ice damage to commercial roofs, a complete checklist, and how an expert like Rainville Carlson can help.

Quick Spring Roofing Tips for Commercial Surfaces

Inspect for any roof for any damage that might have occurred over the winter. Cracks, blisters, or tears in the roofing material are common signs of cold weather damage.
Remove any debris from the roof, such as leaves and branches. This will help prevent water damage and deterioration of the commercial roof over time.
Ensure the attic is properly ventilated and the ventilation system is working correctly. This will help keep the temperature regulated and prevent moisture buildup.
Check all the seams and flashings around the roof and make sure they are adequately sealed, which helps keep water out and prevent leaks.
Make sure the gutters and drains are clean so that water can properly drain and not accumulate on the flat surface.
Test the insulation in the attic and make sure it is properly installed and in good condition. This will help keep the roof cooler and prevent excess heat from entering the building.

Signs Your Building Needs Spring Roof Repair

Even the most durable roofing materials are susceptible to melting snow, ice dams, thermal shock, and prolonged accumulation. Spring maintenance is critical to avoid premature replacement or complex repairs. Let’s explore some of the most common problems winter weather causes common in the Minneapolis area.

Leaky Roof Following Heavy Snowfall

Melting snow is sure to find any vulnerabilities in a roof. This emphasizes the importance of snow removal and the need to keep your roof in top condition. Any loose metal roofing panels, punctured roof coatings, or degraded TPO, EPDM, or PVC materials can lead to roof leaks when the snow melts. If you notice water damage on interior walls or ceilings, contact a trusted leak detection expert, like Rainville Carlson, to find the root of the problem and address it with spring roofing maintenance.

Sagging Roof Material

A cubic foot of snow weighs between 12 and 20 pounds on average. While that may not seem like a big deal, consider it on top of a commercial roof. A 10,000-square-foot roof faces up to 100,000 pounds of added weight following a snowstorm. That weight can compromise your roof’s structural integrity and even lead to a collapse. If you spot a sagging section on your roof, contact a roofing company immediately to avoid a situation where emergency commercial roof repairs are required.

Algae and Mold Development

Not all snow and ice stays frozen throughout the Minneapolis winter. If moisture seeps into open areas or collects on your roof, there’s a good chance you will find mold and algae. While there are some do-it-yourself remedies to remove algae and mold, an experienced roofing professional can provide a more effective solution at a comparable price.

Energy Inefficiency

The same openings susceptible to roof leaks when snow melts can lead to rising energy costs and waste. If your energy bills are higher than average or it’s hard to regulate temperatures inside your facility, there’s a good chance there’s a roof problem.

Spring is just around the corner. With an expert like Rainville Carlson, we can repair any winter damage while providing spring roofing maintenance to ensure longevity to your building’s surface.

Commercial Roof Services

The Complete Spring Roof Maintenance Checklist

As spring approaches in Minneapolis, now is the time to ensure your commercial roofing system is well-maintained and prepared for warmer weather. Following a comprehensive maintenance checklist will prepare your surface to withstand the elements and keep your business safe. Here is a spring roofing maintenance checklist to help you get started:

Commercial Roof Cleaning

The first step in spring commercial roof maintenance is to clean the roof. By contacting a provider now, your building can be scheduled for cleaning before the spring rush!

Leaves, dirt, and other debris can accumulate over the winter, so it’s essential to ensure the roof surface is free of debris. This can also help prevent potential issues such as water pooling, which can cause damage to the roof.

Leak Inspection

Once the roof is cleaned, it’s important to have a professional inspect the surface for any signs of damage. Cracks, dry or compromised insulation, and other signs of wear and tear should be repaired immediately following the Minneapolis winter.

Insulation Testing

Testing the roof’s insulation is also vital to ensure the system is prepared for warmer weather. Your business or facility manager should also have a professional confirm your building’s insulation is in good condition and properly installed following the winter.

Checking Drainage Systems

The drainage system of the roof is also important to inspect. To function properly, gutters, downspouts, and drains must be clear of debris. This will guide water flow off the roof and away from the building.

These steps will help ensure your commercial roof is ready for the spring and prepared to withstand the elements. Taking the time to inspect and maintain your commercial roof now can save you time and money in the long run.

Choose Rainville Carlson for All Your Spring Roofing Needs in Minneapolis

At Rainville Carlson, we offer customizable maintenance contracts that give your commercial roof the care and attention it needs, especially following the treacherous Minneapolis winter. Proper spring roofing services provide long-term cost savings, prolong the roof’s service life, and reduce the need for repairs. As part of Rainville-Carlson’s dedication to customer-first solutions, we ensure your commercial surface is always protected and are happy to help you determine if your roof is still under warranty or qualifies for insurance coverage. Contact us to schedule your inspection or maintenance visit today.