Beyond the Heat: Commercial Roof Winter Maintenance in Northern Arizona
In Arizona, we spend most of the year battling the heat. But when winter arrives, especially in high-elevation areas like Flagstaff and Prescott, the cold and moisture present a whole new set of threats to your commercial roof.
Winter damage is often silent, beginning with microscopic cracks that turn into major leaks during the spring thaw. At Noah’s Ark Roofing, we urge property owners to transition from monsoon recovery to cold-weather readiness.
The Hidden Dangers of an Arizona Winter Roof
The perception that Arizona only needs sun protection is a dangerous oversight. Commercial roofs in Northern Arizona must contend with intense winter elements:
1. The Freeze-Thaw Cycle: The True Enemy
The biggest threat is not the snow itself, but the constant cycle of freezing temperatures overnight and melting temperatures during the day. Water seeps into tiny cracks in the membrane or flashing, freezes, expands, and then melts, causing those small flaws to widen into serious leak points. This “freeze-thaw” action is incredibly destructive to all roofing materials.
2. Snow Load and Ice Dams
For properties at elevation, snow accumulation is a major concern. Heavy, wet snow places immense stress on the structural components of your roof. Furthermore, snow melt refreezing at the cold eaves can create ice dams, trapping water and forcing it under the roof covering and into your building.
3. Thermal Shrinkage and Material Brittleness
Extreme cold causes materials like TPO and EPDM to become less flexible and contract. This shrinkage puts severe stress on seams and mechanical fasteners, making the entire system more brittle and vulnerable to wind damage or impact.
Your Essential Commercial Roof Winter-Ready Checklist
Proactive preparation is mandatory to avoid costly spring thaw disasters. Here is what should be done now:
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Clean and Inspect Drains: Ensure all internal drains and scuppers are completely clear to prevent ice buildup and back-up from standing water.
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Check Flashing and Seals: Look for any gaps, pulls, or signs of shrinkage around pipes, curbs, and vents, which are prime targets for water infiltration during the freeze-thaw cycle.
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Remove Debris: Clear all debris that can insulate snow and ice, or potentially clog drainage as the snow melts.
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Assess Roof Condition: A professional inspection can identify compromised areas before winter permanently locks in moisture.
Don’t Risk the Thaw: Secure Your Business with Expert Prep
A small investment in preventative winter maintenance now can save your business thousands in leak repairs and mold remediation later. Trust the commercial roofing experts who understand the unique climate demands of Northern Arizona.
📞 Protect your property this season! Contact Noah’s Ark Roofing today at (928) 556-9191 to schedule your comprehensive Winter-Prep Inspection.