Prepare Your Commercial Roof for Winter
Tips for Colorado Businesses
Winter in Colorado is no small feat, especially considering the demands it places on commercial roofs. With heavy snowfalls, icy conditions, and fluctuating temperatures, a well-prepared roof is critical to avoid costly repairs and ensure the safety of building occupants. Here are some essential tips to prepare your commercial roof for winter in Colorado, specifically focusing on the unique challenges properties face in high-alpine resort areas and the Denver metro region.
Preparing Your Commercial Roof for Winter in High-Alpine Resort Areas
Breckenridge, Vail, Beaver Creek, and Aspen are renowned for their heavy snowfall and extreme winter conditions. Commercial properties in these areas face unique challenges, making winter roof preparation crucial to maintain structural integrity and safety.
1. Inspect and Activate Heat Tape: In high-alpine areas, heat tape or heat cables are essential for preventing ice dams and keeping downspouts draining.
Tip: Schedule a thorough fall inspection of your heat tape system to check for any damage or malfunction. Turn on the heat tape before the first significant snowfall to ensure it functions properly throughout the season. Damaged heat tape can cause fires if GFIs malfunction. It is important to visually inspect all heat tape before turning it on.
2. Protect Pedestrians from Falling Snow and Ice: With steep roofs and heavy snowfall, resort areas often see dangerous snow and ice slides. Implementing snow retention systems, such as snow guards or rails, can help reduce the risk of sudden snow slides that may endanger pedestrians below.
Tip: Even though you have snow retention on the roof, it must still be designed to meet local snow loads. An inadequate snow retention system can create more severe damage than not having snow retention. If an insufficient snow retention system fails, the significant snow buildup, along with the failing snow fences have the potential to dislodge and fall off the roof at one time. The failure of this system is a hazardous scenario. Have a competent roofer or structural engineer inspect the system to confirm and correct deficiencies if needed. A properly installed snow retention system is far less expensive than the possible damage or injury caused by a failing one.
3. Secure a Snow Removal Contract: Snow accumulation can damage the roof and cause leaks. Partnering with a professional snow removal service ensures timely and safe snow removal throughout the winter. Frequent snow removal means removing smaller amounts of snow, which is quicker (i.e., less costly) and safer. Infrequent snow removal allows for large accumulations of ice and heavy snow, which can cause damage when being removed. it stand out
Tip: Establish a contract with a reputable snow removal company before the winter season begins. Ensure the service includes routine snow checks and removal during heavy snowfall periods to prevent excessive weight buildup. Removing snow can damage the roof if done improperly. Hiring a roofer who understands the roofing they would be working on and how to protect it while doing snow removal is imperative for protecting a building.
4. Inspect Roofing Materials and Flashing: High winds, temperature fluctuations, and heavy snow can damage roofing materials. An inspection before winter will help identify loose or damaged shingles, metal panels, and flashing that could lead to leaks or structural issues.
Tip: Schedule a professional roofing inspection with Turner Morris to ensure your roof is in peak condition for winter. Address any issues promptly to avoid expensive emergency repairs later.
Preparing Your Commercial Roof for Winter in the Denver Metro Area
While milder than in the mountains, Denver's winters still bring a fair share of snow, ice, and temperature swings. Preparing your commercial roof for winter here involves proactive maintenance to prevent damage and costly disruptions.
1. Check and Clear Gutters and Downspouts: Leaves and debris from fall can clog gutters and downspouts, leading to water backup and ice formation. Clogged gutters can also cause ice dams, which may lead to water damage inside the building.
Tip: Clear out all gutters and downspouts before the first freeze or when the weather breaks. Consider installing gutter guards to reduce debris buildup.
3. Conduct a Comprehensive Roof Inspection: Even minor roofing issues can become significant problems during a Colorado winter. Conducting a detailed inspection in the fall can help identify and address potential issues before they become emergencies.
Tip: Look for cracks, gaps, or punctures in the roof membrane. Also, check for loose or unattached areas of roofing and the flashing around roof penetrations. Ensure that all repairs are completed before the snow begins to fall. However, if winter comes before the inspection and repairs take place, do not wait until spring. Denver has many sunny days throughout winter; repairs can be made to prevent issues before the next storm.
4. Implement Snow and Ice Management Plans: Know the roof's snow load and have a plan for removal if a severe snowstorm exceeds the roof's snow load capacity.
Tip: Partner with a snow removal service familiar with commercial roofs to ensure snow and ice are cleared safely and promptly, reducing the risk of ice dams and structural strain.
5. Enhance Roof Safety Features: Protecting building occupants and pedestrians from falling snow and ice is essential in Denver's bustling urban environment. Consider installing safety features like snow guards, warning signs, and barriers.
Tip: Review local safety regulations and implement necessary measures to comply with pedestrian safety standards around your property.
Additional Winter Prep Tips for Colorado Commercial Roofs
Regular Maintenance Checks: Schedule routine maintenance visits throughout the winter to monitor the roof's condition and address any issues that arise from snow, ice, or wind damage.
Roof Drainage Assessment: Ensure all drainage systems are clear and functional to prevent ice buildup and water pooling, which can lead to leaks and structural damage.
Emergency Preparedness: Have a contingency plan for winter storms, including contacts for emergency repairs and snow removal services.
Partner with Turner Morris for Winter Roof Preparation
At Turner Morris Commercial Roofing, we understand the challenges Colorado winters pose for commercial roofs. Our experienced team offers comprehensive winter preparation services, from inspections and heat tape installation to snow removal contracts and emergency repairs. Be sure to protect your investment before winter is in full swing.
Get Your Roof Winter-Ready with Turner Morris
Call or email us today to set up an inspection and ensure your commercial property is ready to withstand the harsh Colorado winter.