Weathering the Storm: Commercial Roofing Resilience in Indianapolis
The Indy weather doesn’t play around. Roofs here have to battle against heavy snowfalls, fierce winds, and hail storms that can appear out of nowhere. For commercial property owners, a strong roofing system is not a choice; it’s a necessity. In this post, we will discuss how to identify if your roof is tough enough to withstand severe weather events and what are some steps you can take to protect your roof.
How to Tell If Your Commercial Roof Has Storm Damage
Check the ground first
Storms are a common phenomenon in Indianapolis, so the first step in checking for any damage is to take a look at the ground around your building. You might find shingles or pieces of metal roofs or tile roofs that have been torn off during a storm. Sometimes, the damage is not clearly visible, so it’s a good idea to contact residential or commercial roofing professionals in Indianapolis who know how to look for subtle signs that indicate something might be wrong.
Take a closer look at the roof
Next, if it is safe to do so, get a better view of the roofing project itself. You might notice granules from the shingles in the gutters, which is a sign that the roof’s protective layer is wearing down. Loose or exposed nails are another issue to watch out for, as they can become entry points for water.
Look for signs of water damage inside
Start inspecting all the indoor ceilings and walls for signs of water damage. This could be watermarks or a new, damp, musty smell. These are a clear indication that water has found its way inside, and it is time to call in the experts before the problem escalates.
Keep up with the gutter maintenance
Gutters help direct water away from the roof and building, so of course, they are an important part of any commercial roofing Indianapolis system. After a storm, make sure they are not clogged with debris. Otherwise, water will back up and seep under the roofing material.
Watch out for water on flat roofs
If your commercial building has a flat roof, which is a popular choice in Indianapolis, you need to be extra careful about “ponding”. It refers to water that stands on the roof for more than 48 hours. This seemingly minor situation can cause the roof to sag and eventually collapse, if not addressed promptly.
Don’t forget the flashing
Flashing is thin pieces of material installed at roof joints to prevent water seepage. Storms can loosen or damage the flashing, so check them as well. For repair, maintenance and roof replacement Indianapolis, make sure to consult with our dedicated team at Jackson Contracting.
Common Types of Storm Damage in Indianapolis
Wind damage
High-speed winds can tear off roof shingles, break the windows, and even uproot fully grown trees. If you see shingles lifted or completely torn off after a storm, that’s a sign of wind damage.
Hail damage
Hail can create dents, cracks, or holes in roofs and siding of the building. The result is substantial leaks which can make way for water damage.
Water damage
When it rains heavily, you are looking at a potential flood, leak, and mold or mildew growth. Water can enter the small cracks and openings, and gradually weaken the structure of the building.
Snow and ice damage
In winter, Indianapolis’ snow storms commonly result in ice dams on roofs. These occur when snow melts and then refreezes at the roof’s edges. The weight of accumulated snow can also pose a risk of roof collapse, especially on flat roofs.
Tornado damage
Indianapolis and surrounding areas in Indiana are situated in a region that is sometimes referred to as the “lower end” of Tornado Alley. While tornadoes are not extremely common here, they certainly do happen. These natural disasters can rip roofs off houses, shatter windows, and in severe cases, level commercial buildings entirely.
How to Prevent Storm Damage in Indianapolis
If the list of damages discussed above sounds too scary, don’t worry, here are some steps you can take to protect your building and those who live inside it:
- Hire skilled roofers for routine roof inspections, especially before and after storm seasons. Look for loose shingles, cracks, or other signs of wear and tear.
- Clean out the gutters and downspouts regularly to ensure that the water doesn’t back up.
- Regularly trim trees and shrubs near the building; overhanging branches can scrape roofing materials or break off during storms.
- Before a storm, secure or store away outdoor equipment, signs, and other loose items that can become projectiles in strong winds.
- Install impact-resistant windows and doors. These can protect the interior of your building by enduring high winds and flying debris.
- Consider upgrading to more durable commercial roofing materials that can withstand hail, heavy rain, and wind. Commercial metal roofing Indianapolis or high-quality asphalt shingles are good options.
- Apply a waterproof sealant to the building’s exterior to prevent water infiltration during heavy rains.
- Make sure the property has effective drainage systems to prevent water accumulation around the foundation.
- Install a lightning protection system to prevent fires or electrical damage.
- Invest in snow guards for roofs so as to prevent large amounts of snow from sliding off the roof all at once; this will reduce the risk of injury or damage to property below.
Indianapolis Roof Repair & Replacement Services You Can Rely On
In the event of roof damage, our roofing contractors at Jackson Contracting can quickly evaluate whether a roofing repair is enough or if a complete roof replacement is needed. We ensure proper installation for commercial roofs and high quality materials (such as metal roofing) that will avoid costly repairs later on. We can also give you a detailed quote to show to your insurance company. We will bring in a team that knows Indianapolis’ severe weather conditions inside out, and recommends the best materials that can stand up to it. We are not in the business of slapping a band-aid on the problem – we give you a solution that lasts, with quality work that prevents future roof maintenance issues. Request a free estimate online or call us at 317-214-8124 to get in touch with our Indianapolis roofers.