Chances are if you’ve lived in this winter climate for any amount of time, you’ve had some experience with ice dams on your own house. The warm air under the insulated portion of the roof causes snow to melt. When the water travels down to the over hang (the un-insulated portion of the roof), it freezes and causes ice buildup. Depending on a number of factors, that ice buildup can be significant. Water can no longer flow off the roof, and starts backing up into places it doesn’t belong.
 
Ice dams on your roofThe same concept applies to flat, commercial roofs. Snow melts, water flows to the scuppers (similar to a gutter on a house), freezes, and backs up into places it doesn’t belong, like around mechanical units. Also, when water ponds, the weight of that water can be substantial, and certainly not good for the structure.
 
As that ice starts to shift and push, it can easily bend gutters, flashings and other roof components. Often the only way to get on top of the problem is to steam off the icy buildup. And, of course, perform a spring inspection to check for damages. Fixing small problems before they become big problems, will save lots in time and money!
 
Enter our Winter Freeze Contest for a chance to win $1,500 in free repairs (and an Apple Watch!). Make a guess for the coldest temperature in March, and learn what our TopSite program can do for you.