One of the most important elements of any business property is a commercial roof, but it tends to be the most neglected one as well. The commercial roofing systems unlike residential roofs occupy huge surfaces, bear the HVAC systems and shield valuable assets, staff, and activities beneath. Weather is the largest and most unsparing in its attacks on these roofs after some time. Weather, whether it is intense sunlight and heavy rainfall, strong winds, hailstorms, and extreme temperatures, may do serious damage either gradually or quickly.
The awareness of the impact of various weather conditions on commercial roofs and the actions that can be proactively undertaken can help property owners avoid the expensive repair cost, business downtime, and premature roof replacement. This is a detailed guide on why weather is the biggest antagonist of commercial roofs and what you can do to ensure that your investment is maintained in the long run.
The effect of weather on commercial roofs
Sun and UV Radiation
The sun is not as dangerous as it may appear, however, one of the most harmful aspects of the commercial roofs is the prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The UV ray has the ability to disintegrate roofing materials at a molecular scale leading to the drying up of the roofing material, making it brittle and losing its elasticity. In the long run, it results in cracking, blistering, and surface degradation.
Commercial buildings with flat and low-slope roofs are particularly susceptible since they gain sunlight during the day. Other materials like modified bitumen, EPDM and even certain TPO membranes have the ability to degrade slower without proper UV protection.
Long-term effects include:
- Shortened life of roofing products.
- Penetration of moisture through cracks.
- Higher cooling expenses, higher heat uptake.
Heavy Rain and Ponding Water
One of the commonest dangers to commercial roofs is rain. Roofs are supposed to drain water off but flat or low gradient systems may not cope with drainage when it is not taken care of. The ineffectiveness of water drainage causes ponding- standing water that is on the roof more than 48 hours.
Ponding water imposes unwanted weight on the formation and enhances the chances of leakages. This may over time weaken seams, rot in membranes and leak into insulation layers.
The most frequently occurring problems with rain include:
- Circa-seal leakages of seams, drains, and flashing.
- Mold and mildew growth
- Excess weight of water stresses the structures.
Wind and Storm Damage
Commercial roofs can be damaged immediately and be visible due to strong winds and storms. The uplift of the wind may loosen or tear the roofing membranes, dislodge flashing and damage the roof edges. After a small area has been affected, there is a possibility of wind blowing under the roofing system and resulting in the general failure.
Storms are known to mix the heavy rain with the high wind thus forming the ideal environment that allows leaks and intrusion of water. Storms are associated with flying debris that will pierce the membranes and destroy rooftop hardware.
Wind-related risks include:
- Membrane lifting or tearing
- Flashing and edge metal, loose.
- Greater susceptibility to storms in the future.
Hail and Impact Damage
Hailstorms are also destructive particularly to roofs where the membrane is exposed or older ones. Hail even as small as hailstones can result in bruising on the surface and those hailstones that are larger are able to puncture membranes, damage protective coatings, and destroy insulation under the surface.
The worst thing about hail damage is that it is not always clearly evident. A storm may leave a roof appearance intact, but its longevity can be reduced by some undetectable damage that brings about leakages months after.
Extremes of Temperature and Thermal Movement
Commercial roofs are continually increasing and decreasing under the effect of temperature. Hot days result into the expansion of materials, whereas cooler nights result in the contracting of materials. This continuous movement over time strains the seams, fasteners and joints.
This thermal cycling in areas with large changing temperatures may cause wear and tear which cause cracks, tears, and seam failures.
The Importance of Proactive Roof Protection
It is a mistake to overlook the dangers caused by weather but they do not only affect the roof but the whole building. Leaks may destroy ceilings, walls, inventory, and electrical systems. The intrusion of moisture may result in the development of molds, which may be hazardous to health and may cause legal problems. It also means that emergency repairs, and unexpected downtime may interfere with the business processes and damage profitability.
Preventive maintenance of the roof is much cheaper than corrective maintenance. A proper roof is a roof that has served a few years longer, behaves well in harsh weather and becomes less expensive to own in the long run.
How to Protect Your Commercial Roof against Weather
Arrange Periodic Roof Check-ups
Commercial roof protection is based on regular inspections. Ideally, the roofs must be checked at least twice a year, once in spring and once in the fall, and after the significant storms.
Professional inspection assists in the detection of:
- Small cracks or punctures
- Loose flashing or seams
- Sewage problem and litter.
By dealing with minor issues at the very beginning, the major concerns will be avoided.
Maintain Proper Drainage
Drainage should be effective to prevent the water damage of commercial roofs. Obstructed drains, scuppers and gutters do not allow the flow of water off the roof and this poses more risk of ponding.
Best practices include:
- Cleaning up the drains regularly.
- Making sure the downspouts are clear.
- Ensuring that the roof is drained properly.
Proper drainage would help a lot in overcoming the strain of down-pouring and stagnant water.
Invest in Protective Coatings of the Roof
Roof coating serves as protective layer to the weather. Reflective surfaces will help eliminate the UV damage, as well as reduce the temperature of the roof areas, and enhance efficiency.
The advantages of roof coating are:
- Extended roof lifespan
- Better UV ray and moisture resistance.
- Reduced cooling costs
Elastomeric and silicone treatments are probably useful in commercial roofs that are highly subjected to sunlight and rain.
Fix Small Problems As Soon as they arise
Minor problems like cracks on hairline, loose fasten梦, or broken flashing can be considered inconsequential, yet they can deteriorate in the presence of severe weather rather fast. Timely repairs are done to avoid water intrusion and damage.
Delays in repairs usually lead to:
- More extensive damage
- Higher repair costs
- The presence of higher risk of business disruption.
Bolster Roof Edges and Flashing
Areas that are the most vulnerable during high winds are the edges and flashing of roofs. Updating of these parts will aid in warding off wind uplift and water seepage.
Ensure that:
- Flashing is firmly strapped and closed.
- Edge metal is up to wind-resistance.
- Vent penetrations and HVAC penetrations are appropriately closed.
Select Weatherproofing Materials
When you are laying a new roof or making a significant upgrade on your house, the choice of materials is vital towards resistance to weather. The current Commercial roofing systems are made to withstand certain weather conditions, be it extreme heat or heavy rains and nearly regular storms.
The appropriate choice of system in the appropriate location can save a lot of damage and maintenance requirements in the long run.
Establish a Long-term maintenance plan
A maintenance stage plan guarantees that your roof has a well-planned maintenance all through its life. This plan should include:
- Scheduled inspections
- Routine maintenance activities.
- Repair and upgrading budgeting.
By being proactive, the property owners will be able to budget costs and prevent any unforeseen roofing disasters.
The Limitation of Professionals in Roof Protection
Although there are certain jobs that can be done internally, professional roofing contractors have expertise, special tools, and industry experience that are needed to perform in the long-term in terms of roof performance. They are able to determine the concealed damages, suggest the relevant solutions, and verify compliance with the safety and building code requirements on the repairs.
Collaborating with more established workers also brings in a sense of calming down, where you have confidence that your roof is ready to withstand any weather that is going to happen.
Final Thoughts
The weather is something inevitable but the roofs do not need to collapse. Being aware of the influence of sun, rain, wind, hail and temperature variations on commercial roofs, property owners will be able to make strategic decisions concerning the investment protection. Owing to the regular checks, good drainage, timely repairs, protective coating, and expert maintenance are important to ensure your roof is taken care of.
A secure commercial roof is not only going to make it through any type of weather; it will help maintain business operations, save on expenses in the long run and also ensure that the occupants of the building are safe. The only way of being certain that your roof will be able to withstand the weather conditions tomorrow is by acting now.
