A large part of the country just experienced a combination of high winds, heavy snow, and ice – a perfect storm that can quietly compromise commercial roofing systems. While some damage is obvious, much of it isn’t visible from the ground, and waiting too long to act can lead to bigger problems down the road.
Here’s what property owners and managers should know about wind-related roof damage and what steps to take after a major storm.
How Wind Impacts Commercial Roofs
Strong winds don’t just affect shingles. On commercial roofs, wind can:
- Lift or loosen membrane seams
- Displace flashing and edge metal
- Shift ballast on EPDM systems
- Damage rooftop equipment, curbs, and penetrations
- Expose insulation to moisture intrusion
When combined with snow and ice, wind-driven damage becomes even more concerning, as melting water can exploit weakened areas and travel far from the original point of entry.
Signs of Wind Damage to Watch For
After a storm, keep an eye out for these red flags:
From the ground or inside the building:
- New ceiling stains or water spots
- Dripping or moisture around HVAC units and penetrations
- Loose metal, gutters, or downspouts
- Unusual drafts or temperature changes
On the roof (only inspected by professionals):
- Lifted or fluttering membrane edges
- Creased or billowed roofing material
- Displaced ballast or pavers
- Damaged flashing or coping
- Exposed insulation
Many of these issues won’t immediately cause leaks, but they significantly increase the risk of future failure.
Why Documentation Matters
If your property experienced high winds, documentation is critical, even if damage isn’t immediately visible. Insurance carriers often require proof that damage is storm-related, not the result of age or deferred maintenance.
The sooner an inspection is completed, the easier it is to tie damage directly to the storm event.
We Can Help
TALTEK provides comprehensive roof inspections and assessments designed to identify storm-related damage, protect warranties, and support insurance claims when needed. Our team understands how winter weather impacts commercial roof systems—and how to address it before small issues become major expenses.
If your property was impacted by recent storms, now is the time to act. Schedule a roof assessment with TALTEK to ensure your roof is secure, documented, and ready for what comes next.
