The 30.2 million small businesses that make up the backbone of our country’s economy are at risk from a damaged commercial roof. Regular inspections by a trusted roofing contractor can prevent damage and identify problems early on, saving money.
Seasonal storms blast buildings with perfect conditions that quickly degrade commercial roofing materials and structures. Protecting your business from severe weather requires fortified materials and a robust maintenance plan.
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Winter
The demands of weather significantly influence the longevity of a business roof, which is an expensive investment. A qualified commercial roofing services in Baton Rouge can assess your building, recommend long-lasting roofing materials, and provide regular maintenance to ensure its durability.
Winter brings frigid conditions that put the strength of your commercial roof to the test. When snow melts and re-freezes, it forms ice dams that can break gutters and shingles or worsen existing leaks. The extra weight of heavy snow can also damage or weaken a roof’s structural support system, which may require a costly replacement.
Frequent and heavy rain, storms, and hail accelerate wear on roofing materials. Wet climates promote mold and moss that deteriorate surfaces, while coastal regions batter buildings with salt air, moisture, and high winds.
Spring offers a respite from the harshest weather conditions, with mild temperatures that allow for inspections and repairs before summer heat and humidity arrive. Regular maintenance checks can help prevent damage from debris and abrasions and can catch any problems before they become serious.
The lovely fall season encourages evening walks and relaxation on the porch, but decomposing plant material can trigger mold, fungus, and other unsightly substances that contaminate surfaces. The yearly barrage of falling leaves is another potential threat to a commercial roof. These particles can clog drains and scuppers, increasing the risk of ponding, which can cause moisture buildup and rot. A professional roof inspector can ensure that all drains, scuppers, and gutter systems are debris-free to minimize the risks of freeze-thaw cycles, thermal shock, and water damage.
Spring
The winter’s ice and snow melt in the spring, exposing any leaks that might have been concealed in your roof. Leaks can result in costly water damage and mold formation, both of which can have detrimental effects on your business. If left untreated, commercial roof leaks can lead to structural problems in your building or warehouse.
Large swings in temperatures can also take a toll on your roofing systems. The more cycles of heat and cold your roof goes through, the faster it will deteriorate. Proper insulation helps minimize internal temperature fluctuations, helping protect your roofing materials.
In addition, rainy and humid climates encourage moss, mold, and fungus that erode surfaces. Coastal areas experience more intense weathering from salt air and storms. A qualified roofer can evaluate your geographic climate zone and specific location to identify potential risks and recommend long-lasting roofing solutions.
While the beauty of fall foliage can inspire family outings and porch gatherings, this season also brings an onslaught of debris from the trees. Fallen leaves block gutters and can puncture or clog the roof. They can also collect moisture, causing rot and accelerating wear on your top. Twice-a-year roof cleaning is essential to remove this accumulated debris and the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Summer
The summer’s hot, humid weather creates issues with commercial roofing. High humidity in the Bayou State causes condensation, resulting in water damage and other problems like mold, mildew, and algae growth. These issues can affect air quality inside your building and contribute to structural damage if left unchecked.
Another problem that comes from the summer is the rapid temperature changes that can impact commercial roofing materials. During the day, temperatures can reach worryingly high levels and then drop sharply as the sun sets. Building materials expand and compress due to this sudden temperature change, which, over time, may weaken them.
In regions prone to yearly hurricanes, strong winds and damaging hail can further degrade commercial roofing. These regions need roofs made from fortified materials designed with unique construction to withstand this recurring battering. In addition, this type of extreme weather can also cause ice buildup, which can strain roofs and cause leaks. To avoid this issue, your commercial roof should have proper insulation to minimize internal temperature swings.
Fall
Even mild storms can cause roof damage. Wind can crack shingles and weaken the wood underneath, leading to leaks. Keeping a close eye on your roof after every storm can help you catch problems before they worsen and save money on expensive repairs.
Hail can seriously harm a roof, depending on the storm’s strength. Generally, hailstones are smaller than the size of a penny and can cause dents in metal roofing and soften shingle material. A reputable roof repair company can inspect the roof and repair any storm damage.
An unfortunate mix-up costs one Baton Rouge roofing contractor a lot of business.
If your roof is damaged by hail, severe wind, or a tornado, it may be time to replace it. If you plan on selling your home, a new roof can add value and ensure it’s appealing to buyers. Investing in a new roof can also protect your family and property from the risk of health hazards that come with water leaks.
