The Cost of Neglecting Winter Roof Maintenance for Commercial Buildings
Winter is a tough season for commercial roofs, particularly in the Midwest.
The combination of snow, ice, and fluctuating temperatures can turn small roofing issues into big ones, if not addressed (meaning costly repairs for you!).
At American Builders, we’ve seen firsthand what happens if you neglect winter roof maintenance.
Here’s why you shouldn’t skip this and how our team of expert commercial roofing contractors can help.
1. Higher Risk of Leaks
Winter weather often brings freeze-thaw cycles. This makes water seep into small cracks, freeze, and then expand.
Left unaddressed, this leads to leaks, damaging your:
Ceilings and walls
Electrical systems
Expensive inventory or equipment
The Cost: Leak repair ranges from a few hundred dollars to thousands. It depends on the severity of the damage.
2. Structural Damage from Snow Load
Heavy snow buildup is a common problem for flat and low-slope roofs.
The excess weight can cause sagging or, in extreme cases, collapse.
The Cost: Structural repairs or a roof replacement from snow load damage can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Not to mention the potential loss of revenue if your operations are interrupted.
3. Mold and Moisture Issues
Ice dams and bad drainage will trap water on your roof. This increases the likelihood of leaks.
Plus the moisture just sitting there creates the perfect environment for mold growth.
This will lead to:
Health issues for employees and customers
Damage to insulation and building materials
Expensive remediation efforts
The Cost: Mold removal can cost thousands of dollars. It often requires extensive repairs to affected areas (not to mention the health risks from breathing it in!).
4. Higher Energy Costs
A poorly maintained roof lets heat escape. This makes your HVAC system work harder to maintain a normal temperature indoors.
We notice this issue most with damaged insulation or roof membranes.
The Cost: Increased energy bills will add up over the winter, especially for larger buildings.
5. Emergency Repairs
Neglecting roof maintenance often leads to unexpected emergencies, such as leaks during a snowstorm or even structural failures.
Emergency repairs typically cost more due to:
Disruptions to your normal business hours
Immediate labor and material needs
Additional equipment required
The Cost: Emergency repair costs easily exceed planned maintenance costs. Plus the downtime will impact your bottom line.
6. Reduced Roof Lifespan
A neglected roof will deteriorate more quickly. This reduces its lifespan and requires an earlier replacement.
Routine maintenance helps protect your investment and maximize its value.
The Cost: A full roof replacement can cost upwards of $100,000 for large commercial buildings.
Prevent Costly Repairs with Professional Maintenance
The good news is that these issues are preventable with proactive maintenance.
American Builders, your trusted commercial roofing contractors in Elkhart, offers comprehensive winter preparation plans.
Our services protect your roof and business.
They include:
Regular inspections to identify/address vulnerabilities.
Cleaning/clearing of debris to ensure proper drainage.
Emergency response plans to handle issues quickly.
Protect Your Business This Winter
Don’t let winter take a toll on your commercial roof.
Contact American Builders today to schedule your winter maintenance service plan. We'll keep your business safe throughout the season.
We proudly serve businesses in Greater Elkhart, Indiana plus all of Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, and Illinois, ensuring your roof is ready for whatever winter throws your way.
