Silverline Roofing Ltd. is advising Edmonton property managers and building owners to complete winter preparation on commercial flat roofs before snow arrives, to reduce the risk of costly leaks, tenant disruption and emergency repairs.

Flat and low-slope commercial roofs face unique risks in Edmonton winters. Snow can remain on them for months, drains and scuppers can freeze or clog, and meltwater can pond and refreeze around seams and rooftop equipment. Seasonal forecasts calling for a milder-than-normal winter may also mean more freeze-thaw cycles, which put extra stress on flashing and older membranes.

"Most commercial roof emergencies in January start as small issues we could have fixed in October," "A blocked drain or a cracked flashing seal costs very little to fix before winter, and a lot after water gets into the insulation."

Silverline Roofing recommends a fall checklist for commercial buildings:

• Clear all roof drains, scuppers and downspouts, and confirm any heat tracing is working.
• Inspect the membrane for blisters, open seams, punctures and worn areas.
• Check flashing at parapets, rooftop HVAC curbs, pipe penetrations and skylights.
• Note areas of ponding water for monitoring through winter.
• Confirm walk pads lead to rooftop equipment to limit damage from service traffic.
• Arrange an emergency roofing contact and document roof access instructions.

The company also encourages building owners to keep a roof record for each property, including system type, installation date, warranties, inspection reports and repair history, to support capital planning and insurance claims.

During winter, snow removal should be handled by crews experienced with flat roofs, since metal shovels and ice picks can cut the membrane, and a protective layer of snow should be left on the surface. Property managers should also watch for signs of heavy snow load, such as top-floor doors that suddenly stick or new cracks in drywall.

"Treating the roof as a capital asset, with inspections every spring and fall, lets owners plan repairs on their schedule instead of the weather's,".

Silverline Roofing provides commercial roofing in Edmonton, including inspection, repair and replacement of flat roofing systems such as SBS torch-on, TPO and EPDM, for offices, retail, warehouses, industrial buildings and multi-family properties.

About Silverline Roofing

Silverline Roofing Ltd. is an Edmonton-area roofing and exterior contractor providing residential and commercial roofing, roof repair, roof inspections, flat roofing, metal roofing, siding, soffit, fascia and eavestroughs. The company serves Edmonton, St. Albert, Sherwood Park, Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, Leduc and surrounding communities. Learn more at Silverline Roofing.