If you own a commercial building, you know that keeping the roof in good shape is essential. But did you know that one of the most damaging causes of roof damage can come from something as simple as ice? Ice dams form when melting snow refreezes and accumulates on your roof’s edge, resulting in water buildup and potential damage to the roof membrane. So what can you do to prevent ice dams from forming on your commercial roof? Let’s take a look.
How to Prevent Ice Dams
The most crucial step in preventing ice dams is understanding why they form. Ice dams are created when the snow melts due to heat loss from inside a building, then refreezes on the roof’s edges and accumulates over time. The best way to prevent this is by ensuring adequate insulation in your building and that it’s up-to-date with current energy efficiency standards. Proper insulation will keep the heat inside, limiting the heat lost and preventing snow from melting too quickly on your roof’s edge.
Another option for preventing ice dams is installing an ice dam prevention system (IDPS). An IDPS works by heating cables embedded into your roof’s edge to melt any accumulated snow before it has a chance to refreeze. When combined with proper insulation, an IDPS can effectively stop ice dams from forming on your commercial building’s roof.
It would be best to inspect your gutters regularly for signs of clogging or debris buildup, as this can prevent water from draining correctly and contribute to ice dams forming on your roof’s edge. Ensure all downspouts are clear and unclogged so water can flow freely from your building without becoming trapped behind an ice dam.
As a business owner, it’s essential to protect your commercial building’s roof against damage caused by ice dams. By ensuring adequate insulation and installing an IDPS system if necessary, you can decrease the risk of costly repairs due to melted snow refreezing along your building’s edges. Additionally, regular gutter inspections will help keep debris at bay and ensure the water has enough space to flow away freely—keeping those pesky ice dams at bay!
