Commercial Roof Snow Removal

At BigHorn Roofing, we’re the go-to pros for all-things roof-related in the greater Salt Lake area, and that includes commercial roof snow removal.

Locals know that winter always blankets northern Utah in an initially pristine layer of snow. While the first snowfall of the season may bring about feelings of peace or nostalgia, it can also bring significant risks to the integrity and safety of commercial roofs. For business owners and property managers in the Salt Lake City area, winter’s beauty can quickly become a structural nightmare if commercial roof snow removal is not handled promptly and professionally. The following sections will explore the critical aspects of snow removal from your commercial roof.

Why Shouldn’t I Leave Snow on the Roof of My Building?

Maybe it doesn’t seem like a problem to leave snow on the roof of a commercial building. Typically, a parapet around the whole roof blocks accumulated snow from sight anyway, so what’s the issue? But that snow can actually create serious problems. Here’s why you shouldn’t leave snow on the roof of your building:

Damage to Materials

As snow and ice on the roof freeze and thaw cyclically throughout the winter, the roofing materials – yes, including concrete – expand and contract, which can cause cracks and lead to quicker deterioration. Sheets of ice on the roof can damage drainage systems and cause water to back up and potentially flood into the building.

Safety Hazards

As snow accumulates on the roof and its parapets, it grows heavier and heavier. At some point, snow and potentially chunks of ice can slide off the parapets, posing a great danger to pedestrians and property below. As snow and ice melt off the roof, the water can refreeze on walkways and parking areas, increasing the risk of slips and falls.

Structural Damage

Business owners or managers frequently ask us about commercial roof snow removal since there is often a constant blanket of snow from late fall until spring. Seeing at least a foot piled up in some spots is normal – but that doesn’t mean that it’s a good thing. Prolonged heavy snow load on the roof of your commercial building can cause the roof to sag, leading to permanent deformation. In extreme cases, the weight of the snow can even cause the roof to collapse.

Increased Energy Costs

Fun fact: accumulated snow and ice on a commercial roof can act as an insulator. That might seem beneficial at first. However, this insulation forces the building’s heating system to work harder to maintain a consistent indoor temperature, leading to higher energy consumption and increased energy bills.

Pest Infestation

Snow and ice can even create favorable conditions for pests to hide out on your building’s roof. Snow piles can provide shelter for pests, leading to infestations that can damage the building and pose health risks to its occupants. The types of creatures you could find when all the snow melts can be unpredictable – and not in a fun way.

Longevity

Most commercial roofs are flat and typically last 15 to 20 years. Investment in regular maintenance can lead to significant cost savings and a longer-lasting roof. Regular roof maintenance, including snow removal, could extend the lifespan of these commercial roofs by five or even ten years.

How Heavy Is Snow?

Understanding the immense weight snow can apply to your roof is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of your commercial building. Fluffy snow is light, with a 12-inch snowfall weighing about 15 to 20 pounds per square foot to the roof. But did you know that wet and compacted snow can add substantial weight to your roof? A 12-inch snowfall can add from 150 to 200 pounds per square foot. This can quickly lead to structural stress, especially on the flat roofs standard in commercial buildings.

How Do I Know the Building is Stressed?

It’s crucial to monitor the signs of stress on your commercial building’s roof due to snow load. Being vigilant can prevent damage and ensure safety. Here are key indicators that your building might be under stress from excessive snow accumulation and in need of attention:

Visible Signs Inside the Building

Inside the building, there are a few clues you can look for that indicate the roof is stressed. For example, cracks in walls or the ceiling can point to structural stress, especially diagonal cracks near the corners of windows and doors. Unusual noises like groaning or creaking from inside the building can also be a warning sign that the structure is under significant stress. Doors and windows that stick or don’t close properly may indicate stress to the building’s frame.

Visible Signs on the Roof

While looking at the roof itself, a few features can help you realize that snow is stressing the building. Watch to see if your roof is sagging or bowing, particularly in the middle. New or expanding cracks in the roofing material can be a sign that the roof is straining under the weight. Water leaks inside the building indicate that snow and ice on the roof have compromised its integrity.

Why Should I Hire BigHorn for Professional Snow and Ice Removal Instead of Doing It Myself?

Removing snow from a commercial roof might seem like a task that can be handled personally or by a local volunteer church or Boy/Girl Scout group, but it’s best to rely on professional services. Professional commercial roof snow removal ensures the protection of your commercial property, making it a wise investment. Here are key reasons to get professional help:

Safety Training

Climbing onto a roof covered in snow and ice is highly hazardous. Professionals like us have the training and equipment to safely navigate these conditions and minimize the risk of falls and injuries. We are also equipped with the proper safety gear so we can work safely at heights.

Expertise

At BigHorn, we understand different types of roof structures and the best methods for snow removal that won’t cause damage. We know how to distribute weight effectively and use proper techniques to avoid compromising the roof’s structural integrity, ensuring long-term durability and safety for the building’s occupants.

Long-Term Savings

As we remove snow from your roof, we can also identify early signs of roof damage or structural stress, allowing for timely repairs and preventative measures. This reduces the need for more significant, costly repairs and extends the lifespan of your roof. Effective snow removal also prevents potential business disruptions caused by roof damage or issues with leaking.

Why Should I Trust BigHorn with My Business’ Roof?

The BigHorn roofing team boasts more than two decades of experience, giving us extensive expertise in caring for our clients’ roofs. As a locally owned and operated business, we treat our clients like neighbors, ensuring their satisfaction and peace of mind.

We are familiar with the harshness of Utah winters and prepared with excellent training and the proper equipment to tackle the obstacles they can bring with them. In fact, as the result of a thorough training and screening process, BigHorn Roofing has become one of a select 2% of United States roofing contractors who have earned GAF Master Elite Status, a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional roofing repair to businesses and properties like yours in the Salt Lake area.

At BigHorn, we prioritize our relationship with our customers by focusing on clear communication, integrity in our work, and service tailored to each client’s needs. BigHorn is your go-to for commercial roof snow removal needs in Salt Lake City, Cottonwood Heights, Murray, Draper, Midvale, Holladay, the Cottonwood Canyons, Bountiful, Draper, Sandy, Cottonwood Heights, Alpine, Traverse Mountains, Park City, Heber City, and Morgan. When you call us, you can rest assured that you’ll receive reliable and consistent services. This allows you to focus on your business activities without the added stress of snow removal.

Let us handle the challenges posed by Utah winters so that you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your roof is in capable hands.