How Storm Damage Affects Commercial Flat Roofs

Commercial flat roofs are an essential part of any business property. They protect employees, equipment, inventory, and the structure itself from the elements. However, these roofs are particularly vulnerable to storm damage. In Northeast Ohio, storms can range from heavy rain and hail to high winds and snow, all of which put flat roofs at risk.

As a trusted roofing contractor headquartered in Jefferson, Ohio, S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC specializes in commercial roofing and has extensive experience repairing storm-damaged roofs throughout Ashtabula, Madison, Youngstown, Cleveland, Mentor, Chardon, and surrounding areas. Understanding how storms affect flat roofs can help business owners prevent damage, extend roof life, and reduce costly commercial roof repair services

1. The Impact of Heavy Rain and Flooding on Flat Roofs

Flat roofs are prone to water accumulation because they lack the natural slope that facilitates drainage. When heavy rainstorms hit, standing water can cause a variety of problems.

Common Issues from Heavy Rain

• Ponding water: Water that remains on the roof for more than 48 hours accelerates material deterioration.
• Leaks: Even minor cracks in the membrane can allow water to seep into the building.
• Structural stress: Prolonged water exposure increases the weight load on the roof, which may cause sagging or damage to the roof deck.

Why This Matters

Standing water can lead to blistering, membrane separation, and insulation saturation, all of which compromise the roof’s ability to protect the building. At S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, we ensure proper drainage systems are installed and maintained to prevent ponding and water-related damage.

2. Wind Damage and Roof Uplift

High winds are a major threat to commercial flat roofs. Winds can lift roofing membranes, tear off flashing, and loosen seams.

How Wind Affects Flat Roofs

• Membrane damage: Strong gusts can lift or tear EPDM, TPO, PVC, or modified bitumen membranes.
• Flashing failure: Loose or damaged flashing around vents, HVAC units, and edges allows water to infiltrate.
• Debris impact: Flying debris can puncture or scratch the roofing surface, weakening the structure.

Even small tears or lifted seams can lead to major leaks. Professional roofing contractors like S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC assess and repair wind damage promptly to prevent further deterioration.

3. Hail Damage on Flat Roofs

Hailstorms are increasingly common in Northeast Ohio and can cause significant damage to commercial flat roofs. Hail impacts vary depending on size, density, and speed.

Signs of Hail Damage

• Punctures or tears in the roofing membrane
• Dented or cracked flashing
• Granule loss on modified bitumen surfaces
• Compromised seals around penetrations

Hail damage is often hard to see from the ground, making a professional inspection crucial after a storm. Even minor punctures can allow water infiltration, leading to costly repairs if not addressed promptly the effects from storm-damaged commercial roof

4. Snow and Ice Damage in Winter Storms

Winter storms bring snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, all of which affect flat roofs in unique ways.

Common Winter-Related Issues

• Excessive snow load: Heavy accumulation adds weight that can stress the roof deck.
• Ice dams: Ice buildup along edges prevents proper drainage, causing water to back up under the membrane.
• Freeze-thaw cycles: Water that freezes and thaws repeatedly weakens roofing materials and accelerates deterioration.

At S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, we advise commercial property owners to monitor snow accumulation and schedule snow removal when necessary to prevent structural damage.

5. Roof Flashing and Penetration Damage

Storms often target roof details like flashing, vents, skylights, and HVAC units. Damaged flashing or penetrations are a common source of leaks.

How Storms Affect Flashing

• Torn or loosened flashing allows water to penetrate under the roofing membrane.
• Improperly sealed roof penetrations can develop leaks.
• Metal components may bend, crack, or corrode during hail or wind storms.

Maintaining properly installed flashing and seals is essential to preventing storm-related water damage. S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC ensures that all roof details are secure and functional during every installation and repair.

6. UV and Heat Damage After Storms

Storms can temporarily shield roofs from sunlight, but subsequent exposure to UV rays and heat can exacerbate damage.

Effects of Post-Storm Sunlight

• Membranes weakened by hail or debris dry out and crack under UV exposure
• Adhesive failures become more pronounced in damaged areas
• Reflective coatings may erode, reducing energy efficiency

Regular inspections and maintenance after storms help identify UV or heat-related weaknesses and prevent more serious problems.

7. The Cost of Ignoring Storm Damage

Many commercial property owners underestimate the long-term consequences of storm damage. Ignoring small leaks, punctures, or membrane tears can result in:

• Extensive water damage: Damaged insulation, mold growth, and interior damage
• Structural failure: Sagging decks, weakened supports, and safety hazards
• Energy inefficiency: Water intrusion and damaged insulation increase heating and cooling costs
• Shortened roof lifespan: Small problems compound, reducing the effectiveness of the roof

Prompt inspections and repairs from a trusted roofing contractor like S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC are crucial to mitigating these costs.

8. Signs Your Commercial Flat Roof Has Storm Damage

After a storm, it’s essential to look for the following warning signs:

• Pooling water or ponding areas
• Torn, lifted, or blistered membrane
• Missing or damaged flashing around penetrations
• Punctures, cracks, or hail marks
• Water stains inside the building
• Sagging areas or soft spots on the roof deck

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call a professional. S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC offers free roof inspections and will assess damage accurately, providing transparent repair or replacement recommendations.

9. Preventing Storm Damage Through Proactive Maintenance

Prevention is always better than reactive repair. There are several steps commercial property owners can take to protect flat roofs from storm damage:

1. Regular Roof Inspections

• Inspect roofs twice a year, especially before and after storm seasons.
• Check membranes, flashing, drains, and roof penetrations.

2. Proper Drainage

• Ensure gutters, drains, and scuppers are clear and functional.
• Address ponding water immediately to prevent membrane deterioration.

3. Secure Loose Roof Components

• Check flashing, seals, and HVAC supports
• Replace worn or damaged components before storms arrive

4. Reinforce Weak Spots

• Reinforce areas prone to ponding or wind uplift
• Schedule professional maintenance from experienced roofing contractors

At S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, we specialize in preventive maintenance that protects commercial roofs and extends their lifespan, even in Northeast Ohio’s harsh weather.

10. Why S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC Is Your Go-To Commercial Roofing Expert

Storm damage is inevitable in Ohio, but the right roofing contractor can minimize its impact. Here’s why businesses trust S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC:

• Local expertise: We understand Ohio’s weather patterns and challenges
• Owens Corning Preferred Contractor: High-quality materials and manufacturer-backed warranties
• Free commercial roof inspections: Professional assessment and transparent pricing
• Storm damage repair specialists: Quick, efficient service to protect your property
• Serving Northeast Ohio: Including Ashtabula, Madison, Youngstown, Cleveland, Mentor, Chardon, and surrounding areas

We ensure commercial flat roofs withstand storms and remain durable for decades.

Conclusion: Protect Your Commercial Roof from Storm Damage

Commercial flat roofs are vulnerable to storm damage, including heavy rain, wind, hail, snow, and post-storm UV exposure. Ignoring minor issues can lead to costly repairs, structural damage, and reduced roof lifespan. Proactive inspections, proper maintenance, and professional repair or replacement are essential to protect your investment.

If your commercial roof has been exposed to a storm—or it’s been more than a year since your last inspection—contact S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC. Serving businesses throughout Northeast Ohio, our experienced team provides free inspections, storm damage assessments, and expert roofing solutions to keep your property safe, dry, and energy-efficient. Make sure to always call a certified company for a commercial roof inspection