With snow storms and blizzards, winter in New Jersey can be really harsh. Therefore, it isn’t a secret that business owners in New Jersey counties like Morris County, Somerset County, Somerville, Bridgewater, Union County, Hunterdon County and others must prepare their commercial roofs for winter.
Yet many aren’t sure what to do to prepare their roof for winter weather. To help them we have created a list of helpful tips every business owner should know regarding winter commercial roof preparation.
Therefore if you are a business owner that has a commercial building in New Jersey this article is for you.
Clean Your Commercial Roof From Leaves and Other Debris
Cleaning your commercial roof from leaves and other debris should be your priority in preparing a commercial roof for wintertime.
Leaves and debris can clog gutters and downspouts, which leads to leakage issues. Also, if they aren’t removed from the rooftop and the drainage system, wet leaves can freeze, and the next thing you have on the roof and in the gutters is a significant accumulation of water that brings accumulated water to the rooftop. Eventually this can lead to massive leaks.
PRO tip: Use special footwear due to slipping surfaces during cleaning.
Remove Snow and Ice from the Roof
Removing snow and ice is one more necessary step in the process of preparing your commercial roof for winter. Like wet leaves, snow also brings heaviness to the roof and can damage the roof’s structure. Also, water issues can easily happen if you have a pile of snow on your rooftop.
Furthermore, while examining your commercial roof, check if there are ice build-ups and if there are, remove them with hot water.
PRO tip: Instead of a metal shovel, use a plastic one so you won’t damage the roof’s surface.
Clean Gutters and Drains
Gutters are essential for drainage systems; therefore, you need to clean them so that water flows properly through them.
As we mentioned before, clogged gutters lead to severe water damage and leakage issues, and that’s why you really need to pay attention to them because the consequences can be serious and even lead to roof replacement.
Examine Flashing and Caulking Parts
Caulking parts are usually around curbs and parapets; if they aren’t functioning properly, snow build-up can create damage and leaks.
The same thing goes for flashing parts also. And again, water will penetrate if they are damaged or worn, and leakage issues are the next thing to worry about.
Inspect Skylights
Another helpful tip if you want to have your commercial roof prepared for winter weather is to check skylights.
While checking them, pay attention if there is damage to the glass and the flashing condition since most skylights usually leak around flashing parts.
Trim Tree Branches
Tree branches can severely damage the roof during high winds and storms; therefore, keeping them away from the rooftop is one more helpful tip while preparing a commercial roof for winter for business owners in New Jersey.
Since this assignment is quite demanding, hiring a professional to trim tree branches overhanging your commercial building is advisable.
Schedule a FREE Roof Inspection by MK Roofing
Last but not least, if you want to be on the safe side regarding commercial roof preparation for winter, schedule a roof inspection by MK Roofing, a roofing company from New Jersey that has been in the roofing business for more than three decades.
MK Roofing specializes in commercial roofing services, and for business owners in the New Jersey area, we provide a free commercial roof inspection.
During the inspection, we are going to examine your commercial roof thoroughly and check if there are any signs of damage or wear. After the inspection, we will provide you with a detailed written report regarding the condition of your commercial roof and the necessary steps required to restore it to its original condition.
Through our three decades in the roofing business, we have helped many business owners with their roofing issues; therefore, if your commercial roof needs to be inspected before winter comes, contact us at 908-323-9686 and schedule an appointment.