The Impact of Commercial Roofing on Your Home
A new roof adds value to a property and reduces heating and cooling costs. However, the type of roofing chosen significantly affects long-term costs.
The specific climate zone and location impact the maintenance required for a commercial roof. Wet, humid climates promote mold and moss growth that deteriorates surfaces. Areas with high winds and sun exposure need materials that resist thermal expansion and UV damage.
Spring Weather
With spring comes the potential for severe flooding. Sharp temperature shifts can cause rapid melting of winter snowpack, resulting in rising rivers that threaten city streets and homes.
Rainy weather can also lead to clogged gutters and downspouts, which add extra weight to your roof. Unchecked, this can create leaks in your home’s roofing materials.
Your geographic climate zone and specific location impact how your commercial roofing withstands the elements. Wet, humid climates promote moss growth that deteriorates surfaces, while coastal regions batter roofs with salt air and moisture. High wind speeds amplify the risk of damage to the roof membrane, flashing, and other components. Inspecting the condition of your roof twice a year, in conjunction with proper maintenance and timely repairs, helps to minimize weather-related damage.
Summer Weather
The summer heat wreaks havoc on building materials, including roof components. High humidity promotes mold growth, deterioration, and leaks, while extreme temperatures cause the surface to buckle and warp. Roofing material selection is critical in the comfort of a home or business. Metal roofing reflects sunlight and keeps interiors cooler, while shingle roofs absorb heat and can raise interior temperatures.
A qualified residential roofing contractor can assess local climate zones and unique location-specific conditions to recommend long-lasting roofing solutions. Wet, humid climates promote moss and fungus that deteriorate roof surfaces, while coastal regions endure more frequent and severe weathering challenges.
AccuWeather predicts an above-average number of days with temperatures above 90 degrees this summer. Keeping your roof in top condition can protect your home from summer heat and help reduce energy costs by reducing cooling demands. It also helps your roof last longer, protecting against expensive repair bills. It’s essential to have a routine preventative maintenance schedule for your commercial or residential roof.
Winter Weather
The winter weather can damage commercial roofs that must be appropriately designed and maintained. The large temperature swings during this season put roofing materials like asphalt to the test and lead to leakage and deterioration. Frequent rain and snowfall also create moisture buildup, which leads to rusting and deterioration. This season also brings freezing temperatures that freeze-thaw cycles strain surfaces, and heavy snowfall increases the weight on roofs, which can cause them to sag or collapse.
Proper slope, drainage, and gutter systems minimize ponding issues. Regular cleaning removes debris from drains and gutters to prevent clogs that can lead to moisture accumulation, mold growth, and structural damage.
Advances in roofing technology make it possible to select durable options that are more resistant to thermal expansion and mechanical stresses. Thermoplastic polyolefin and ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) are durable materials with energy-saving properties. Eskola’s roofing experts can identify the best material for your specific climate and install a stable, long-lasting roofing system that will serve you well for years.
Fall Weather
When you own or manage a commercial property, your roof protects your building and the people inside. But it can also be the source of a lot of headaches if not properly maintained.
The risks of hazardous inclement weather amplify during the fall season, making it an excellent time to inspect and maintain your commercial roof. High winds can blow debris against the ceiling, rip or loosen shingles, and damage the roofing membrane and flashing. This damage can allow water to leak into the structure and cause mold, mildew, and other problems.
Blistering, a common issue with asphalt shingle roofs, is a sign that your commercial roof is not eliminating moisture correctly. A professional should check and repair any blistering immediately to avoid severe damage to your business. Also, gutters should be inspected for blockages. A blocked gutter can lead to a flooded basement, water leaking into the house, and structural damage.