How fall-winter weather cycles affect roofing performance in Metro Vancouver

Any professional roofing company in Vancouver will attest that the fall-winter weather cycle is brutal on commercial roofs. This is due to four reasons: lots of wind, rain, freezing weather, and temperature fluctuations (aka the freeze-thaw cycle). These 4 reasons cause increased deterioration of commercial roofing materials, particularly if there are any holes, cracks or fissures for water to get in.

Rain

First is all the rain and wind we typically get in the fall. All that moisture works its way into small cracks and fissures in roofing material (that were caused in part by the relentless heat and UV rays of summer). Accumulation of water here and there leads to further deterioration of the roof and the attraction of moss and algae (which act as water sponges to trap water there).

Wind

Second, our infamous fall and winter windstorms are responsible for a lot of damage we see on rooftops. For example, it lifts and tears weakened or old roofing material, loosens flashing, and forcefully blows tree branches and other debris, causing punctures. Blown leaves and debris also increase clogs in rooftop drainage systems, which will trap water on the roof.

Freezing temperatures

The third reason is freezing weather. Freezing temperatures cause materials to contract and pull away from each other. Snow accumulation adds extra weight which can stress commercial roofs and cause sagging and leaks. Trapped water, on the other hand, expands. In drainage systems this damages and/or unseats them. Water that has worked into holes and cracks also expands and makes them bigger.

Freeze-thaw cycle

Finally, the fourth reason is the freeze-thaw cycle. As the temperature fluctuates above and below 0℃, this thermal cycling causes a lot of damage over time. You’re likely very familiar with its effect on other materials like potholes in asphalt, spalling on concrete or crumbling mortar. When water freezes, even in the tiny pores of asphalt and concrete, it expands. So any place water works its way into is made bigger when it freezes. Then, thawing lets more water in because holes are now larger. This is why roofing companies recommend scheduling roofing inspections in the fall, so that any cracks, fissures, holes or tears, no matter how small, can be sealed up securely before freezing weather settles in.

Commercial roof inspection & repair

And, look at the time–it’s fall already!  We have to say, as your friendly and professional roofing company in Vancouver, storms and freezing weather are on the way. We highly recommend our inspect and repair cycle, before the freeze-thaw cycle starts next month. It’s going to be a doozy. So you will not regret it.

Laurentian Roofing experts want you to enjoy the winter season warm and dry, with the peace-of-mind that comes from knowing your roof is fall-winter weather-ready and impenetrable. Schedule your roofing inspection today: 604-345-7663