How to Protect Your Commercial Roof Before and After a Severe Winter Storm
Severe winter storms are a leading cause of unexpected commercial roof damage. Heavy snow loads, ice accumulation, high winds, and repeated freeze–thaw cycles can all compromise roof systems, even when temperatures only fluctuate slightly above and below freezing. In many cases, the most serious issues are not immediately visible after the storm.
For commercial property owners, facility managers, and operations teams, understanding how winter storms affect commercial roofs is essential. The following guidance outlines how to prepare your building before a severe winter storm and what to inspect afterward to identify damage early.
How to Prepare a Commercial Roof Before a Severe Winter Storm
When a winter storm is forecast, proactive roof preparation can significantly reduce the risk of leaks, structural stress, and long-term system failure.
Clear Roof Drains, Scuppers, and Gutters
Blocked drainage is one of the most common contributors to winter storm roof damage. Snow and ice may melt during the day and refreeze overnight, allowing water to back up beneath snowpack. Fully clearing roof drains, scuppers, and gutters helps prevent ice formation, excessive loading, and moisture intrusion.
Inspect Roof Seams, Flashings, and Penetrations
Commercial roof penetrations such as HVAC curbs, pipes, skylights, and expansion joints are vulnerable during winter storms. Ice expansion and wind movement can worsen existing cracks, loose flashing, or deteriorated sealant. Addressing these areas before a storm reduces the likelihood of storm-related leaks.
Secure Rooftop Equipment and Accessories
High winds combined with snow and ice place additional stress on rooftop units and accessories. Equipment that shifts during a storm can damage roof membranes or fluid-applied systems. Confirm that all rooftop components are properly secured and supported.
Evaluate Known Ponding Water Areas
Ponding water on a commercial roof increases risk during winter storms. When standing water freezes, it expands and adds stress to the roof surface and underlying assembly. Identifying low areas and improving drainage before a storm can reduce ice-related damage.
Plan for Snow Load and Safe Snow Removal
While commercial roofs are engineered to handle snow loads, drifting snow, ice accumulation, and consecutive storms can exceed expected limits. Property owners should understand their building’s snow load capacity and have a plan for safe snow removal if conditions require it.
Commercial Roof Inspection After a Winter Storm
Winter storm roof damage is not always visible from the ground. A post-storm inspection should be completed once conditions are safe, especially before another storm system arrives.
Check for Signs of Structural Stress Inside the Building
New ceiling cracks, unusual sounds, or doors that suddenly bind can indicate excessive roof loading or movement caused by snow and ice. These interior signs often appear before visible roof damage.
Look for Membrane and Seam Damage Caused by Ice
Freeze–thaw cycles can force seams apart, enlarge small splits, and expose weak points in commercial roofing systems. After a storm, inspect for displaced materials, wrinkles, or newly exposed areas.
Inspect Roof Edges and Flashing Assemblies
Perimeter edges and flashing details are particularly susceptible to winter storm damage. Wind-driven ice and snow can loosen or damage these components, increasing the risk of leaks during subsequent storms.
Identify Signs of Trapped Moisture
Melting snow and ice can allow moisture to enter the roof system and remain hidden. Interior staining, damp insulation, or persistent odors may indicate moisture trapped within the assembly that should be addressed promptly.
Evaluate Drainage Performance During Snowmelt
As snow and ice melt, observe how water drains from the roof. Standing water or slow drainage after a winter storm often signals that drains were obstructed or damaged during freezing conditions.
Why Commercial Roof Damage Often Appears After Winter Storms
Severe winter weather can temporarily conceal roof damage. Ice may seal small openings, preventing active leaks while conditions remain cold. When temperatures rise or another storm occurs, these hidden vulnerabilities often become apparent and can lead to rapid deterioration.
Regular inspections after severe winter storms allow minor roof issues to be corrected before they result in interior damage, operational interruptions, or reduced roof lifespan.
Key Takeaway for Commercial Property Owners
Winter storms subject commercial roof systems to combined stresses from snow weight, ice expansion, moisture, and wind. Proper preparation before a storm and thorough inspection afterward are critical to managing risk and maintaining long-term roof performance.
While winter storms are unavoidable, the extent of commercial roof damage does not have to be.