Winter is Coming: Is Your Commercial Roof Ready?

Winter in Michigan can be unpredictable and especially tough on commercial roofs. Between freezing temperatures, heavy snow and constant cycles of melting and refreezing, even a well-built roof can face serious stress during the colder months.

Issues like leaks, ponding water and structural strain often start small but can quickly turn into costly damage when temperatures drop. That’s why preparation is so important. A proactive approach before winter sets in can help you protect your building from the elements in the short-term and extend your roof’s lifespan for the long-term.

The Impact of Winter Weather on Commercial Roofs

Winter weather challenges even the most durable roofing systems. Working with a trusted commercial roofing contractor can help you understand how natural elements like cold temperatures, moisture and fluctuating conditions affect your roof so you can get an effective maintenance plan in place before small problems become big ones.

Freeze-Thaw Cycles

When snow or ice melts during the day and refreezes overnight, roofing materials expand and contract. Over time, that constant movement can cause cracks, lifted seams and gaps around flashings or penetrations. Once water finds its way in, it can freeze again beneath the surface and create more damage with each cycle.

Snow Loads and Weight Stress

Heavy, wet snow adds significant weight to flat and low-slope roofs. If it isn’t removed properly, that extra load can strain the roof structure and damage insulation. Snow buildup also slows drainage and increases the risk of ponding water when temperatures fluctuate.

Ice Dams and Drainage Issues

Ice dams form when melting snow refreezes near roof edges or around drains. These frozen barriers prevent proper runoff, forcing water to pool on the roof surface and work its way under the membrane. Poor drainage and inadequate insulation make the problem worse, leading to leaks and costly water damage inside the building.

Steps to Prepare Your Commercial Roof for Winter

Getting your roof ready before temperatures drop is the best way to prevent winter damage. Working with a professional commercial roofing company on a proactive plan in the fall can save you from costly repairs or downtime later in the season. At Superior Services, our team of commercial roofing experts can identify weak points like worn membranes, cracked flashing, or loose seams that may not be visible from the ground. Here are three key steps we’ll take to prevent leaks once freezing temperatures arrive. 

Clear Debris and Maintain Drainage Systems

Good drainage is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your building during cold weather. Leaves, branches and debris can clog drains and gutters, trapping water that freezes and expands as temperatures fluctuate. Hiring a professional commercial roofing team to clear these areas before winter ensures that melting snow has a clear path to drain away from the roof. 

Reinforce Vulnerable Areas

Certain parts of a roof are more prone to leaks, including areas around HVAC units, vents and flashing details. Asking your commercial roofing partner to reinforce these zones before the first freeze will strengthen your roof against harsh conditions and help prevent mid-winter emergencies.

Review Your Maintenance Plan

Winter maintenance doesn’t stop once the snow starts falling. Periodic roof checks throughout the season help identify excessive snow loads, ice buildup, or drainage problems early. Superior Services offers inspection services and maintenance programs that keep your roof performing all year long, no matter what Michigan weather brings.

Winter Isn’t the Time to Take Risks on Your Roof

When winter arrives, your roof faces some of its toughest conditions. Small problems can quickly turn into costly damage if they’re not caught early. Working with a knowledgeable roofing partner ensures your system stays protected, even in the harshest weather.

Superior Services has spent more than five decades helping Michigan businesses avoid that kind of risk. Our team is trained for cold-weather work and equipped to respond quickly when conditions are toughest, protecting your building, your people, and your bottom line all season long.

Snow and ice are on the way. Protect your roof now with a winter inspection from Superior Services and prevent costly downtime later.