In many parts of the country, the winter season is known for bringing extreme cold temperatures, increased precipitation and high winds. These weather elements are rough on all of us for sure, but they can be even rougher on restaurant and retail roofs.
Dramatic temperature fluctuations cause repeated freezing, thawing and refreezing of water throughout the winter season. This vicious cycle often results in ice dams and icicles. While ice formations may be pretty to look at, they can wreak havoc on roofs and gutter systems.
These temperature changes also allow water to easily seep into extremely small cracks or seams on a roof. It then expands as it freezes, which enlarges those openings. This resulting expansion and contraction from repeated freeze-thaw cycles has proven to have a negative effect on the reliability and longevity of commercial roofs.
Flashing refers to impervious material installed on a roof to waterproof critical areas by securing joints and covering exposed gaps. This type of weather-resistant barrier system is basically designed to keep moisture out. Unfortunately, though, flashing is vulnerable to high winds and ice formation.
When the water from melted snow and ice doesn’t properly drain or naturally evaporate, it has nowhere to go but stay on the roof. Ponding water is defined as any water remaining on a roof for more than 48 hours. Open seams and cracks allow ponding water to penetrate the roofing membrane, which commonly causes damage to the roof deck, leads to wet insulation and result in leaks. Wet insulation is especially dangerous for both restaurant and retail facilities because it can attract insects, rodent infestations, mold and poor indoor air quality.
Buildings with inadequate insulation and/or poor ventilation run the risk of having an area that allows the warm air from inside of the building to escape and reach the cold roof. This often results in condensation, which is obviously more common during winter months. If left unaddressed, it can lead to mold, mildew and other damage.
High winds any time of the year can result in damaged flashings, open seams and torn laps — all of which can cause roof leaks.
Most restaurant and retail roofs are low slope or flat, making them more prone to snow buildup. The buildings these roofs protect also have a maximum weight limit, so it’s important to be aware of the amount and weight of snow and drifts on your roof. Exceeding the maximum weight can dramatically affect your roof’s structural integrity.
The chart pictured below compares the relative weights of fresh snow, packed snow and ice — showing the accumulation of each needed to hit the roof collapse danger zone of 20 lbs./square foot. (Graphics courtesy of Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety.) At that weight, snow should be professionally removed from the roof whenever possible.
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