Oklahoma’s storms are notoriously unpredictable, bringing a mix of heavy rain, hail, strong winds, and even tornadoes that can wreak havoc on buildings in their path. As warmer weather ushers in the storm season, the risks to flat roofs—whether from water pooling, hail, or wind-driven damage—rise significantly. With the right preparation, you can safeguard your building and prevent costly repairs down the line.

In this article, we’ll explore why weatherproofing your flat roof is crucial, outline the specific threats posed by Oklahoma’s spring storms, and provide actionable steps to prepare your flat roof for the season ahead. Whether you’re a building owner or property manager, these tips will help you protect your investment and maintain peace of mind during even the most severe weather events.

Spring Weather Threats to Flat Roofs

Unlike sloped roofs, which are designed to shed water naturally, flat roofs are particularly vulnerable to water pooling. When water collects on the surface, it can weaken the roofing materials over time, leading to leaks, structural damage, and costly repairs. Without proper drainage and maintenance, this pooling effect can become a recurring issue that compromises the integrity of your roof.

High winds and tornadoes present another significant risk. These powerful forces can lift the roofing membrane, damaging its attachment points and sometimes causing full sections to blow off entirely. Such damage leaves your building exposed to the elements, increasing the likelihood of water intrusion and escalating repair costs.

Hail is especially damaging to flat roofs. Impact from hailstones can puncture or crack the roofing membrane, leaving it vulnerable to leaks and further damage. These punctures may not be immediately noticeable, but over time, even small cracks can expand, allowing water to infiltrate and weaken the roof’s structure.

Damaged roof on Sulphur BancFirst building. — The BancFirst location in Sulphur, Oklahoma was hit by an EF3 tornado.

3 Reasons Why Weatherproofing Your Commercial Flat Roof is Essential

Cost-effective: Weatherproofing your flat roof is one of the most effective ways to protect your building, save money, and avoid the stress of unexpected repairs. Think of it like routine car maintenance—regular oil changes and tune-ups prevent costly breakdowns. Similarly, proactive roof maintenance and weatherproofing can save you from the far greater expense of a full roof replacement. Addressing small issues before they escalate is not just more cost-effective—it’s an investment in the longevity of your roof.
Protect Interior Assets: Beyond saving money, weatherproofing plays a crucial role in protecting your building’s interior assets. Leaks or cracks can lead to water intrusion, which puts your property at risk. For commercial buildings, this can mean ruined products, damaged technology and equipment, and even disruptions to daily operations. For property managers and building owners, the potential losses—both financial and operational—can be significant. By ensuring your roof is prepared for storms, you minimize the risk of interior damage and avoid costly interruptions.
Protect Property Value: Weatherproofing your roof directly impacts your property’s value. A well-maintained roof enhances curb appeal and signals to buyers, tenants, or investors that the building has been cared for. Neglecting maintenance can lead to premature roof deterioration, which reduces the overall value of your property. By keeping your roof in excellent condition, you extend its life, reduce depreciation, and maintain a competitive edge in the commercial real estate market.

How Next Phase Can Help

A comprehensive roof inspection is an essential first step in protecting your property from storm damage. Before severe weather strikes, it’s critical to understand the current condition of your flat roof and address any vulnerabilities that could lead to costly repairs or interior damage. At Next Phase Roofing & Construction, our team of experts specializes in thorough roof assessments, providing detailed reports that outline your roof’s condition and specific maintenance or repair needs.

Once your roof’s issues are identified, we take swift action to address them. From ensuring proper drainage to repairing cracks, holes, and punctures, our team is equipped to handle every aspect of roof maintenance. We also reinforce critical areas like flashings and seams to create a durable barrier against water and wind damage.

Our expertise in inspections and damage analysis, roof repair, and unmatched customer service makes Next Phase a comprehensive turn-key solution for schools, churches, industrial, and commercial projects. We make weatherproofing your roof a seamless and stress-free process.