The roofing industry has changed quite a lot over the years. These days, homeowners are rarely opting for the standard, 3-tab shingles that were so popular a few decades ago. Instead, they are going with architectural shingles, and in some cases, with even more eco-friendly options like green roofing or slate. Whether you're shopping around for a new roof or are thinking of having repairs made to your current roof, it pays to be educated. Learn the basics on this blog, where we discuss roofing in the modern world. We explore various roofing materials, roofing techniques, and how to find the right roofer.
When winter comes, is your commercial building ready for snow, cold, and ice? If not, you may face costly damages, safety hazards, and unhappy tenants. Therefore, you must take preventative measures.
Check Your HVAC System
Your HVAC is essential for keeping your building comfortable and healthy during the winter. A malfunctioning HVAC system can lead to poor air quality, high energy bills, and fire risks. To avoid these problems, you should:
- Check and change air filters regularly
- Inspect and repair broken parts, such as fans, belts, motors, and compressors
- Inspect ductwork for leaks or holes that could reduce efficiency or allow cold air to enter the building
- Cover outdoor air-conditioning units that will not be used during the winter
Also, hire a professional to perform a full inspection and tune-up of your HVAC equipment before the heating season starts.
Inspect the Insulation
Insulation is another critical factor for maintaining a comfortable and efficient building. Insulation helps prevent heat loss through your structure's walls, ceilings, floors, and windows. It also helps prevent condensation and mold growth. To ensure your insulation is in good shape, you should:
- Look for signs of damage
- Replace or repair any insulation that is missing or compromised
- Add extra insulation where needed, especially in attics, basements, crawl spaces, and around pipes and ducts
Also, seal any air leaks around doors, windows, outlets, vents, and pipes with caulk or weatherstripping.
Prepare Your Roof
Your roof is vulnerable to snow and ice. Snow accumulation can cause roof leaks and ice dams and can even cause your roof to collapse. To prevent these disasters, you should:
- Keep your roof in good condition by repairing or replacing any damaged or missing shingles, tiles, or flashing
- Clean gutters and downspouts regularly to ensure proper drainage of melting snow and ice
- Check your drains on flat roofs for clogs
- Install snow guards or heat cables on sloped roofs to prevent snow from sliding off and damaging property or injuring people below
Also, warm the inside of your building sufficiently with heaters to melt the ice layer on your roof, and then wait for the snow and ice to slide off.
The best way to know for sure that your roof is ready is to have it inspected and repaired by a commercial roofing contractor. They can repair the damage before winter arrives and help determine if your roof can hold up during the winter.
Contact a local company to learn more, like RG Contractors Enterprises Inc.