Weathering the Elements: Region-Specific Commercial Roofing Challenges in North America

North America has a wide range of climates and weather patterns, including cold and stormy winters in the North and scorching heat in the South. It also has a wide variety of landscapes, from rainforests to deserts. This diversity poses unique challenges for commercial facilities when it comes to roofing. Let's explore the region-specific commercial roofing challenges in North America and discuss how you can address these issues to ensure the longevity and performance of your roof.

Winter weather in Northern regions:

In northern parts of the continent, particularly in Canada and the northern United States, cold temperatures, heavy snowfall and freeze-and-thaw cycles are common challenges for commercial roofs. These conditions can lead to ice dams, snow accumulation and thermal shock. To address these challenges, commercial buildings in these regions often require robust insulation, proper drainage systems and roofing materials that can handle the stress caused by temperature fluctuations. Preventative maintenance is a key aspect of keeping your roof in top condition. It allows you to identify and fix any minor problems caused by snow, ice and thermal shock before they become major issues, resulting in expensive repairs. Removing snow from your roof is essential in regions with heavy snowfall, since just one inch of wet, dense snow equals 1.66 lbs/sq.ft. Heavy snowfall can add a lot of extra weight to your roof, which may be unevenly distributed due to snowdrifts, rooftop projections or architectural features. At some point, the weight capacity of your roof may be exceeded, causing it to sag and even collapse. Snowmelt may also overwhelm your roof drainage system, particularly if it wasn’t adequately cleaned from leaves and debris in the fall and cause ponding water. Contact a CentiMark representative to discuss your specific situation and schedule a comprehensive roof inspection to determine the needs of your facility’s roof.

Hurricanes in the Southeast:

The southern United States is threatened by hurricanes and tropical storms. Extreme winds, heavy rain and flying debris during these storms can cause significant damage to commercial roofs. Facility managers in hurricane-prone regions rely on impact-resistant roofing materials, regular inspections and maintenance to ensure their roofs can withstand the forces of a hurricane. To address post-storm roof emergencies, check out our 24/7 emergency repair service. To learn more about the impact of high winds on your roof and what you can do about it, read this article. Also, check out this quick to-do list to prepare your facility for a hurricane.

UV, extreme heat and monsoons in the Southwest:

The southwestern United States and parts of Mexico experience intense heat and prolonged exposure to UV radiation. This may result in the gradual deterioration of roofing materials over time, including cracking, fading and loss of elasticity. Commercial buildings in these areas should opt for reflective roofing materials that can mitigate heat absorption and UV-resistant coatings to protect against the damaging effects of prolonged sun exposure. To help you with your facility’s cooling expenses this spring and summer, check out this article. 

Monsoons are seasonal storms that occur during the summer months in the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona and New Mexico. These storms are known for their intensity and can bring heavy rainfall, strong winds and flash floods. Commercial roofs in these regions are particularly vulnerable to damage during monsoons, making it important for businesses to prioritize effective drainage systems, waterproofing measures and materials that can withstand prolonged exposure to moisture. Regular inspections before the onset of monsoon season can help identify and address potential vulnerabilities, ensuring that commercial roofs are well-prepared to weather the challenges brought on by these intense and unpredictable storms. With over 600+ crews nationwide, we are here to assist you 24/7 in case of a roofing emergency. 

Tornado Alley:

Stretching from the central United States to parts of Canada, this region is known for its frequent tornado activity. High winds and flying debris can cause severe damage to commercial roofs. Building owners in these regions should prioritize reinforced roofing systems, such as strong membranes, a layer of impact-resistant cover board and enhanced wind-resistant features, to minimize the risk of damage during tornadoes. Make sure to perform regular roof inspections and complete all needed repairs and maintenance to ensure your facility’s roof is as ready as it can be to weather an extreme wind event. Having a comprehensive condition report prepared before the storm hits may also help you streamline your post-tornado insurance claims. We offer 24/7 emergency services to quickly get your facility back to watertight in case of severe storm damage, including partial or complete blow-offs.

Rainfall events in the Pacific Northwest:

The Pacific Northwest frequently experiences heavy rainfall. Excessive moisture can lead to issues like roof leaks, mold or algae growth and structural damage. Commercial buildings in this region must have effective drainage systems, proper waterproofing and routine inspections to prevent water-related damage. Check out this article, to learn more about various strategies to extend the life of your roof.

Wildfires and flying embers: 

Wildfires have been a growing concern across various regions of North America due to their increasing frequency and intensity in recent years. During these devastating events, flying embers can reach a building’s roof. If an ember lands on a flammable surface on your roof, it can start a new fire. To reduce this risk, it's important to ensure your roof is free from debris and vegetation that may serve as fuel. Businesses should also consider using roofing materials with high fire resistance in areas prone to wildfires. Additionally, maintaining a defensible space around the property by removing combustible debris and vegetation can help reduce the risk of ember ignition. Regular roof inspections are crucial in identifying and addressing any vulnerabilities, such as compromised membranes, to safeguard commercial structures from the potential hazards of wildfires, which have become a threat affecting different parts of North America.

Addressing region-specific commercial roofing challenges in North America requires a tailored approach that considers the unique weather conditions prevalent in each area. By partnering with your roofing team at CentiMark, investing in preventative maintenance and climate-specific solutions, you can ensure the longevity and durability of your commercial roof system, ultimately protecting your assets and providing a secure environment for employees and customers. Need help with your roof? Contact us!