All roofs age. But very few things can accelerate their deterioration faster than the winter elements. Although many roofing products are designed with the cold in mind, there is a reason why property managers should take preventive maintenance in preparation for the frigid months.
Here, Oberg Roofing & Remodeling Inc. explains the different ways the winter could wreak havoc on steel roofs and single-ply membranes.
Triggering Contraction and Expansion
Thermal cycling is the product of extreme temperature swings. This phenomenon causes roofing products to contract and expand more frequently, naturally affecting their structural integrity.
The degree of thermal cycling building components could experience depends on several variables like the local climate. When there is a big difference between day and night temperatures, your commercial roof is more prone to the effects of this phenomenon.
Instigating Leakage
Experienced roofing companies consider snow buildup the ultimate instigator of water infiltration into the flat roof in the winter. When the surfaces of your commercial roofing system has uneven surface temperatures, ice damming could happen.
Once the ice melts, it usually starts from the bottom. The water then flows under the ice and seep into the gaps around the pieces of flashing and potentially bypass the drainage system. It is only a matter of time before the water reaches the interior of your building.
Increasing the Load
Snow drifts are not light. Until they are removed, their weight is a burden to the roof. Keeping the snow accumulation under control matters. Otherwise, the sheathing could collapse without warning, requiring a costly unscheduled roof replacement.
Take every measure to ready your commercial roofing system for the most trying season of the year. Call Oberg Roofing & Remodeling Inc. at (888) 687-5980 or fill out our contact form to schedule your appointment. We serve clients in St. Cloud, MN.