5 Steps to Prepare Your Roof for Fall and Winter

Kathleen Maxwell

Fall Leaves

The changing of the seasons is a prime time for roofing problems to begin or worsen, but there are a few simple steps you can take to prepare your roof for the temperature and weather change that accompany fall and winter. By taking these precautionary steps, you can winterize your roof and avoid some of the damage that can result during the colder months.   

1. Landscape in early fall.

Overhanging branches and overgrown trees are always something to be aware of when you’re assessing possible damage to your roof. That’s especially the case during the autumn months. Before temperatures drop too much, take the time to trim vegetation and remove any problematic trees before they begin dropping leaves, branches, or other debris. Anything you can avoid hitting your roof will help extend the life of your commercial roof.

2. Clean your roof.

During the fall, leaves, sticks, and even nesting materials can collect on a roof or in gutters and drains. While this might seem like just a minor nuisance, debris can damage a roof if left for too long. Leaves and sticks can block drains and allow moisture to pool on the roof. In the winter, this pooled water can freeze, causing damage. The end of fall is the ideal time for a roof cleaning in order to prepare for winter. When you’re cleaning your commercial roof or having your roof cleaned, check for debris and low-lying areas where water could collect. Both of these issues should be addressed before winter. 

3. Get a roof inspection.

As the weather gets colder, it’s critical that a commercial roof operates at peak performance. Missing a leak and winding up with wet insulation could be a disaster in cold weather. Getting a roof inspection is the best way to identify any small problems that could worsen as the seasons change.  

4. Finish repairs before winter set in.

Winter is not the best time for repairs. Snow and ice can create hazardous conditions for both the building owner and the workers. If your building has tenants living in it, they likely spend more time indoors in the winter and could be inconvenienced by leaks. Following your fall inspection, it’s best to get any repairs done as soon as possible before winter sets in.

5. Plan your winter maintenance. 

If snow is common where your building is located, it’s important to schedule a maintenance visit before your locale experiences snowfall. Choose a company familiar with commercial roofing to assess the condition of your roof before the winter. Ideally, photos of the roof in good condition could be taken to help support any insurance claims that might later result from storm damage. Scheduling a maintenance visit is a good idea to know your roof’s current health before the storms, high winds, hair, or other winter hazards.

If you’re ready to prepare your roof for fall and winter, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal today. Our team is ready to help.


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