How to Prepare Your Commercial Roof for Storm Season

Storm season can bring severe weather events that pose a significant threat to commercial properties. Strong winds, heavy rainfall, hail, and extreme temperatures can compromise the structural integrity of a roof, leading to costly repairs or complete roof failures. Proactive preparation is essential to protect your investment and ensure business continuity.

At Mountain Roofers, we specialize in commercial roofing solutions, leveraging our 12-Step Process and TagCam Technology to assess risks, document potential vulnerabilities, and create action plans that safeguard properties against storm damage. This guide outlines the key steps commercial property owners, managers, and HOAs can take to strengthen their roofs before storm season begins.

1. Conduct a Comprehensive Roof Inspection

Why It Matters

Many roofing problems remain hidden until a severe storm exposes them. A thorough inspection can reveal small issues that, if left unaddressed, could escalate into major damage during extreme weather conditions.

What to Check

• Roofing Material Condition—Look for cracks, missing shingles, blisters, or loose tiles. Any of these could signal underlying vulnerabilities that storms may exploit.
• Drainage System—Ensure gutters and downspouts are free from debris and functioning properly to prevent water pooling. Water buildup can lead to structural weakening and leaks.
• Flashings & Seals—Inspect the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights for deterioration. Poor sealing can let water seep into critical areas, increasing the risk of leaks and insulation damage.
• Structural Integrity—Identify weak points that may be vulnerable to high winds. An overlooked weak area could compromise the entire roof during high-intensity storms.

The Role of Professional Inspections

Mountain Roofers provides drone-assisted inspections using TagCam Technology to capture real-time images, document vulnerabilities, and provide detailed reports. Our roofing experts analyze these reports to offer a tailored approach that addresses weak points before the storm season arrives.

2. Reinforce Vulnerable Roofing Areas

Upgrades That Protect Against Storm Damage

• Install Impact-Resistant Materials: Commercial-grade TPO and EPDM roofing offer superior durability against wind and hail. These materials can sustain high-speed winds and impacts, ensuring longevity even in harsh conditions.
• Secure Loose Components: Fasten loose panels, tiles, and flashing to minimize wind uplift. Even minor looseness can result in major damage during a storm.
• Apply Protective Coatings: Reflective coatings help reduce UV exposure, extend the roof’s lifespan, and add an extra layer of defense against water damage.

Case Study: How a Pre-Storm Upgrade Saved a Business Thousands

One of our clients, a commercial property owner, had multiple loose panels on their industrial roof. After a pre-storm season inspection, our team reinforced the structure with upgraded fasteners and applied a weather-resistant coating. When a Category 3 storm hit the area, their property sustained minimal damage, while neighboring buildings required major repairs. This proactive approach saved them thousands in potential damage and insurance premiums.

A proactive approach can significantly reduce storm-related repair costs and extend the longevity of your roofing system.

3. Maintain Regular Roof Cleanings & Drainage Systems

Prevent Water Damage & Structural Issues

• Clear Gutters & Drains: Clogged drainage systems lead to standing water, increasing the risk of leaks and structural damage. Leaves, dirt, and debris accumulate quickly, creating blockages that could become problematic during heavy rainfall.
• Trim Overhanging Branches: Prevent tree limbs from breaking off and puncturing the roof. Falling branches can cause major damage, puncturing roofing materials and requiring costly repairs.
• Inspect Roof Membranes & Sealants: Look for cracks or separations that could let water in. Moisture intrusion is one of the leading causes of roof degradation.

Why This Matters for HOAs & Multi-Family Units

For commercial property managers overseeing multi-family units or HOA properties, failing to maintain a clean roof can result in multiple tenant complaints and liability risks. Roof maintenance should be a scheduled and proactive process, not an afterthought following a storm.

Mountain Roofers offers long-term maintenance plans to ensure proper roof health before, during, and after storm season.

4. Review Your Insurance Policy & Coverage

Understanding What’s Covered

Many property owners are unaware of the specifics of their insurance policy until they file a claim.

• Does your policy cover storm damage? Some policies exclude specific types of weather damage, leaving property owners vulnerable.
• Are you protected against wind, hail, and water intrusion? Understanding what’s covered helps determine if additional coverage or proactive maintenance is needed.
• Are there exclusions that could affect your claim? Some insurance companies place exclusions on pre-existing damage, making it essential to have documented inspections before storm season.

Mountain Roofers provides insurance advocacy services to help clients maximize their claims and get the necessary coverage for storm-related repairs. We work directly with insurance adjusters to ensure property owners get fair compensation for storm-related damage.

5. Develop an Emergency Response Plan

Be Prepared Before a Storm Hits

A well-prepared emergency plan can mitigate damage and reduce downtime in the event of a disaster.

• Identify Emergency Contacts—Have a roofing specialist on call for immediate assessments.
• Create a Storm Checklist—Outline key steps, including shutting down electrical systems and securing loose objects on the roof.
• Establish a Damage Documentation Process—Take pre-storm photos to simplify insurance claims.

Proactive Measures for Industrial and Commercial Buildings

Industrial facilities with large-scale roofing systems require additional planning. If equipment, HVAC systems, or machinery are installed on the roof, securing these items with additional fasteners or reinforcements can prevent significant losses.

6. Schedule Pre-Storm Season Inspections & Repairs

Act Now, Not After the Storm

Many property owners wait until after a storm to assess damage. However, proactive inspections and minor repairs before storm season prevent costly emergencies later.

• Book a professional roof evaluation early. Waiting until after a storm could result in long repair wait times due to high demand.
• Invest in preventative repairs before small issues escalate. Many storm-related damages begin as minor problems that could have been fixed affordably beforehand.
• Take advantage of Mountain Roofers' Free Inspection Program.

Protect Your Investment with Mountain Roofers

Storm-proofing your roof requires proactive maintenance, structural reinforcements, and expert guidance. At Mountain Roofers, we specialize in storm-resistant commercial roofing and offer free inspections to identify potential risks before they become costly problems.

Don’t wait for the next storm to test your roof’s resilience. Protect your commercial property by scheduling a free inspection with Mountain Roofers today. Our expert team will assess your roof, identify vulnerabilities, and recommend tailored solutions to ensure you’re storm-ready. Contact us now to secure your investment and avoid unexpected repair costs when severe weather strikes!