Commercial roofing is an essential part of any building, protecting the structure and its contents from the elements. However, commercial roofing can be vulnerable to damage from extreme weather conditions and climate factors.
Understanding the impact of weather and climate on commercial roofing is crucial for building owners and managers to ensure the safety and well-being of their occupants, protect their investment, and prolong the lifespan of their roofing system.
In this blog, we will discuss the impact of weather and climate on commercial roofing, including extreme temperatures, precipitation, wind, hail, and UV rays. We will also explore climate-specific considerations and case studies highlighting unique weather-related challenges in different regions.
New Orleans is located in a humid subtropical climate zone, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The city receives an average of 64 inches of rainfall per year, with the majority of rainfall occurring during the summer months. In addition, the city is vulnerable to tropical storms and hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November.
The hot and humid summers in New Orleans can have a significant impact on commercial roofing systems, with high temperatures causing roofing materials to expand and contract, leading to cracks and other damages. The high humidity levels can also cause moisture to become trapped under roofing materials, leading to the growth of mold and other types of fungi.
The frequent and heavy rainfall in New Orleans can also pose a challenge for commercial roofing systems, with standing water and ponding becoming a common issues. In addition, the city’s vulnerability to tropical storms and hurricanes can lead to significant wind damage and even complete roof failure.
To protect commercial roofing systems in New Orleans, it’s essential to have proper drainage systems in place to prevent standing water and ponding. Regular inspections and maintenance can also help identify potential issues and address them promptly, preventing them from becoming major problems. It’s also important to ensure that roofing materials are properly installed and can withstand the high temperatures and humidity levels of the region.
Extreme temperatures can have a significant impact on commercial roofing systems, including those in New Orleans. High temperatures during the summer months can cause roofing materials to expand and contract, leading to cracks, splits, and other damages. These damages can compromise the integrity of the roofing system, leading to leaks and water damage inside the building.
In addition, low temperatures during the winter months can cause roofing materials to become brittle and more susceptible to damage from foot traffic, equipment, and other sources. Cold temperatures can also cause roofing materials to shrink and pull away from the roof deck, leading to gaps and areas where water can penetrate.
To prevent temperature-related damage to commercial roofing systems, it’s important to use roofing materials that are designed to withstand the local climate conditions. Regular inspections and maintenance can also help identify potential temperature-related issues and address them promptly, preventing them from becoming major problems.
Prevention and repair techniques for temperature-related damage can include installing insulation to regulate temperature and prevent thermal shock, using reflective coatings to reduce the amount of heat absorbed by the roofing system, and repairing or replacing damaged roofing materials promptly.
Wind can be a significant threat to commercial roofing systems in New Orleans, especially during hurricane season. High winds can lift and dislodge roofing materials, including shingles, tiles, and metal panels, exposing the roof deck and underlying structure to the elements. Wind can also cause damage to the flashing and other components of the roofing system, leading to leaks and water damage inside the building.
To prevent wind-related damage to commercial roofing systems, it’s essential to use roofing materials that are designed to withstand high winds. In addition, regular inspections and maintenance can help identify and address potential wind-related issues, such as loose or damaged roofing materials and flashing.
Prevention and repair techniques for wind-related damage can include installing wind-resistant roofing materials, securing loose roofing materials with fasteners, and repairing or replacing damaged flashing promptly. It’s also important to ensure that roofing materials are properly installed and that the roofing system is designed to withstand the wind loads in the local area.
Hail can be a significant threat to commercial roofing systems in New Orleans, causing damage to roofing materials and potentially leading to leaks and water damage inside the building. Hailstones can vary in size, from small pellets to large chunks of ice, and can cause dents, punctures, and cracks in roofing materials, particularly in metal roofs.
To prevent hail-related damage to commercial roofing systems, it’s important to use roofing materials that are designed to withstand impact from hailstones. Regular inspections and maintenance can also help identify and address potential hail-related issues, such as damaged roofing materials and flashing.
Prevention and repair techniques for hail-related damage can include installing impact-resistant roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles with Class 4 impact resistance ratings, metal panels with a higher gauge, and rubber or PVC membranes with reinforced layers. In addition, repairing or replacing damaged roofing materials promptly can help prevent water infiltration and further damage to the roofing system.
In conclusion, weather and climate can have a significant impact on commercial roofing systems in New Orleans, with extreme temperatures, wind, hail, and precipitation posing unique challenges.
By taking proper precautions, including using appropriate roofing materials, scheduling regular inspections and maintenance, and addressing issues promptly, building owners and managers can protect their investments and ensure the safety and well-being of occupants.
So, whether you’re a business owner or property manager in New Orleans or any other region, don’t hesitate to explore our other blog posts and feel free to contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We’re here to help you protect your investment and ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your commercial roofing system. Contact Big Easy Roofers Today!
By Admin 
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May 12, 2023