When storm season rolls in, one of the most vulnerable parts of your commercial building is your roof. Heavy rain, strong winds, and debris can quickly lead to leaks, water damage, and costly repairs if your roof isn’t properly maintained. Protecting your commercial roof before, during, and after bad weather can make all the difference in extending its lifespan and avoiding unexpected downtime.
Here are several practical ways to help protect your roof during heavy rain and storm season.
1. Schedule Regular Roof Inspections
The best defense against storm damage starts long before the first surge of rain. Regular roof inspections, ideally twice a year, help identify small issues before they become major problems.
A professional roofing team can spot early signs of trouble like ponding water, open seams, deteriorated flashing, or damaged membrane areas. Addressing these issues proactively will ensure your roof is ready to handle whatever Mother Nature throws its way. If your building has gone through a recent severe storm, schedule a follow-up inspection to assess any hidden damage. Sometimes leaks or moisture intrusion aren’t immediately visible from the inside.
2. Keep Gutters and Drains Clear
One of the most common causes of roof leaks during heavy rain is clogged drainage. When water can’t flow freely off your roof, it pools and creates unnecessary weight and stress on the roofing membrane. Over time, this can lead to punctures, weakened seams, and even structural damage.
Before storm season hits, ensure that gutters, scuppers, and internal drains are clean and clear of leaves, debris, and dirt buildup. It’s also a good idea to inspect drain strainers and downspouts to confirm everything is properly connected and functioning.
Routine maintenance of your drainage system is a simple but powerful way to prevent water from becoming your roof’s worst enemy.
3. Inspect Flashings and Penetrations
Flashing and penetrations (like HVAC units, vents, and skylights) are often the first areas to fail when heavy rain or wind occurs. These components help seal your roof and protect vulnerable transition points, but only if they’re intact.
During your pre-storm inspection, check for loose metal flashing, cracked sealant, or deteriorated caulking. Even small gaps can allow water to infiltrate and cause internal damage to insulation, ceilings, or electrical systems.
If you notice any irregularities, contact a commercial roofing professional to re-seal or repair these areas before the next big storm.
4. Trim Nearby Trees and Remove Debris
Falling branches or windblown debris can puncture membranes and damage roof surfaces during a storm. Regularly trimming trees and removing debris from around your building helps reduce the risk of impact damage.
After any major weather event, safely remove loose debris from the roof surface as soon as possible to prevent drainage blockages or surface damage.
5. Consider a Preventative Maintenance Program
Many commercial building owners and facility managers underestimate the value of an ongoing maintenance plan. A preventative maintenance program ensures your roof is inspected, cleaned, and serviced regularly by professionals who know what to look for.
These programs often include detailed reports, photo documentation, and recommendations for necessary repairs—giving you peace of mind knowing your investment is being protected year-round.
When heavy rain or storms hit, you’ll be glad your roof was prepped and maintained by experts who understand its specific system and needs.
6. Document and Respond Quickly After a Storm
Even with proper preparation, extreme weather can still cause unexpected damage. After a storm passes, perform a visual inspection from the ground (and inside the building) to check for signs of leaks, standing water, or damage.
Document any visible issues with photos and contact your roofing contractor immediately. Quick response can help minimize further damage and make the insurance claims process smoother if repairs are needed.
Final Thoughts
Your commercial roof is one of your building’s most important assets—and one of the most exposed. Taking proactive steps before and after storm season not only protects your roof but also saves time, money, and stress in the long run.
At Parsons Roofing, we help property managers and building owners prepare for whatever the weather brings. From preventative maintenance and infrared scans to full-scale repairs, our team ensures your roof is ready to perform when it matters most.
