Winter across the central U.S.—from Oklahoma to Missouri to northern Texas—can bring unpredictable and sometimes severe weather. Ice storms, high winds, heavy snow, and rapid temperature shifts can take a serious toll on commercial roofs. Whether you’re responsible for a school district in Arkansas, a church campus in Kansas, or an industrial facility in Texas, your roofing system is your first line of defense against the elements.
The problem? Most roofing issues go unnoticed until damage has already occurred. And in winter, that damage often shows up as interior leaks, ice dams, or rapidly escalating energy bills. With labor costs and material lead times still high, protecting your current roof has never been more important.
Here are seven proactive steps you can take to help winterize your commercial roofing system—before problems start.
1. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection—Free of Charge
Start with a comprehensive roof inspection from a qualified commercial roofing contractor. At Next Phase Roofing, we provide free commercial roof assessments that document your roof’s current condition, identify potential vulnerabilities, and recommend repairs when needed.
We service buildings throughout Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas, and Texas, and our inspections include detailed reporting that can be used for planning budgets or supporting insurance claims. If you haven’t had a professional inspection within the past year—or since your last major storm—now is the time.
2. Walk the Roof Perimeter and Check the Roofline
Even from ground level, there’s a lot you can spot. Look for sagging rooflines, clogged gutters, standing water, or early signs of ice dams. If something seems off, it probably is. Addressing visual warning signs before winter sets in can help prevent more severe and costly repairs later.
3. Ensure Ice and Water Shield Is Installed Where Needed
Ice and water shield underlayment—especially along eaves, valleys, and around roof penetrations—helps prevent ice damming and leaks. If your roof is older or wasn’t originally built to modern code, it may not have this added layer of protection. We recommend including this during any roof replacement or insurance-funded repair project. In many cases, building code requires it, and it can be added at no cost during a claim-backed replacement.
4. Inspect Flashing and Roof Penetrations
Roof flashing protects critical transition points around HVAC units, chimneys, skylights, and vents. If flashing is loose, rusted, or failing, it becomes a common entry point for winter moisture.
Look for signs of water staining, corrosion, or dampness around these areas—especially after storms or freezing rain.
5. Check for Signs of Pests
When temperatures drop, animals look for warmth. Rodents, squirrels, birds, and insects can find entry points through gaps in the roof or attic vents. If you see evidence of droppings, gnaw marks, or nesting materials, contact a pest control professional before they do damage to insulation, wiring, or the roof itself.
6. Remove Debris and Clean Drains
Winter storms, high winds, and fall foliage often leave roofs littered with debris. Left unchecked, this buildup can block drainage systems and lead to standing water or ice formation. Clear out gutters, roof drains, downspouts, and scuppers. This is especially important for flat or low-slope roofs common in commercial and industrial buildings.
7. Probe Seams on Flat Roof Systems
If your building has a TPO, PVC, or modified bitumen roof, it’s critical to check the seams before winter arrives. Loose or open seams can allow water to infiltrate and become trapped under the roofing membrane during freeze-thaw cycles. Proactively probing and resealing these areas can prevent leaks and insulation damage.
Key Takeaways
Winter roof preparation is an essential step in protecting your commercial property—regardless of the type of building. A professional inspection can uncover small problems before they become expensive emergencies. From checking flashing and removing debris to inspecting seams on flat roofs, these proactive measures will help your building perform better through the cold season and beyond.
At Next Phase Roofing, we serve commercial clients across Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas, and Texas. Our experienced team provides detailed roof assessments, storm damage documentation, and tailored maintenance recommendations to help you extend the life of your roofing system.
Whether you’re preparing for snow and ice or want to identify hidden issues before temperatures drop, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule your free winter assessment. Let’s make sure your roof is ready—before winter weather puts it to the test.
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