In Minnesota, the storms can get pretty intense. With high winds, freezing temperatures, and significant snowfall, Minnesota roofs can go through a lot during the cold months. So, it’s essential to learn more about roofing in winter in order to protect your commercial roof.
The roofing experts at Rainville-Carlson have put together some information on how snow and winter storms can affect your rooftop. You’ll also learn some overall maintenance and protection tips to make sure your roof is in good shape for the winter months.
Kinds of Winter Weather Damage
Winter storm damage can come in various forms. Mainly, the build-up of snow or ice can lead to water damage like leaks or mold in the long term. Then, there’s wind damage that can cause issues like broken or missing shingles.
Snow Damage To Roofs
Snow damage can appear in a couple of main ways. First, you could wind up with water leaks into your home if the roof isn’t secure enough. Secondly, snow accumulation can lead to ice dams. These form when the attic is too warm and the roof isn’t correctly insulated—the snow will melt off the rooftop but turn back into ice as it falls. Ice dams can cause big issues, so it’s best to have a professional remove them. Reach out today to learn about our snow removal options.
Wind Damage To Roofs
Along with snow and ice damage, your roof can also take a beating from a winter storm that has high winds. Depending on the severity of the wind, you could wind up with damage to your shingles or tiles. And, even if you have a flat roof, the wind could create issues or cause debris to land on the rooftop.
Other Winter Damage Concerns
Finally, you’ll want to consider how debris and objects might wind up on your roof during a winter storm. It’s best to keep branches and shrubs away from the top or side of the roof. And, ensure that your gutters are in good shape and don’t become clogged because of snow or ice.
Looking to protect your roof from winter damage? Learn how Rainville-Carlson can help with your commercial roofing needs.
Are Flat Roofs Bad at Handling Snow?
While snow and ice can be an issue for sloping roofs, low-slope and flat roofs are bad for snow. That doesn’t mean that flat roofs can’t handle snow. But, it does mean you need to have a flat roof that was well installed. Flat roofs on commercial buildings should have adequate drainage systems. Because of the design of flat roofs, it’s especially vital to make sure the gutters are installed correctly to keep ice and snow from gathering on the roof.
If you’re wondering how much snow a flat roof can hold, there isn’t one set answer. But you don’t want to wind up with a ton of snow and ice either. Snow can cause your roof to leak, so make sure that your business’s roof has the proper drainage systems.
How To Prevent Winter Storm Damage
If you want to protect your commercial building from winter weather, the best thing to do is practice good maintenance habits throughout the year. We suggest having a roofing inspection done in the fall. It’s also good to have roofing maintenance on a regular basis to ensure the roof doesn’t need repairs.
If you think your roof could have some weak spots, now is the time to get them fixed before winter storms become a genuine concern.
Protect Your Roof From Winter Storm Damage
As winter approaches, it’s important to ensure your commercial roof is in good shape. If it’s been a while since you checked out your roof, now is the ideal time to request a roofing inspection from the contractors at Rainville-Carlson. We will thoroughly assess your roof for signs of damage or weakness. From there, we can make any necessary repairs and help you shore up your roof for the winter. If you already know you have some damage to your roof, reach out to us right away to schedule a roof repair service.
Dealing with storm damage on your roof? Give Rainville-Carlson a call to request a roof repair service.
