Winter exposes roof defects that otherwise would remain concealed throughout the remainder of the year due to temperature and moisture differences, especially during the summer.  By the time spring arrives, a small problem will likely become a large issue (a leak, damage inside the building, and the costs of unexpected repairs).

For this reason, winter roofing inspections by a licensed roofing contractor not only serve as a means of prevention against roof damage but also act as a means to lower the risk for Maryland businesses, especially when conducted in accordance with the best practices of roofing system manufacturers..

How Winter Impacts Commercial Roofs

During winter months, roof structures experience unpredictable climates. There is the risk of freezing temperatures and then rain and/or melted snow the following week. This continuous change in climate creates stress on roof structures, particularly on both flat and low-slope commercial roofing structures typical of business properties.

During winter months, roofs will experience an increase in the following vulnerabilities:

• Freeze-thaw expansion, where trapped moisture expands as it freezes and contracts as it melts, widening seams and cracks
• Ponding water caused by blocked drains or snowmelt that can’t properly escape
• Membrane stress as materials become less flexible in cold temperatures
• Hidden leaks that may not show visible signs until insulation or decking is already compromised

Winter has many challenges for commercial properties, including the threat posed by winter storms to roofs, which can cause disruption of business operations, loss of inventory, and employee and customer safety concerns.

What Is Included With a Commercial Winter Roofing Inspection?

A commercial winter roofing inspection is based on more than just what you can visually see on the surface. According to Angi, a thorough evaluation of the overall condition of the roof, as well as how well the roof functions when exposed to winter-related conditions, is important. At Topper Roofing, we position ourselves to assess the totality of a commercial roof’s performance.

A typical winter roofing inspection will include:

• Membrane and surface evaluation to identify cracks, blisters, punctures, or separation
• Seams and flashing checks around HVAC units, vents, skylights, and roof edges
• Drainage review, ensuring drains, scuppers, and downspouts are clear and functioning
• Signs of moisture intrusion, including soft spots, staining, or insulation issues
• Structural observations that may indicate stress from snow load or trapped water

No matter how minor any of these things may seem in the warmer months, they can escalate into major dollar expenses once winter arrives, and small openings can actually grow larger with colder temperatures. 

How A Winter Roofing Inspection Will Help Protect Your Business

Unlike residential owners, who are primarily focused on maintenance and aesthetics, businesses and their property managers must also consider two additional factors when dealing with roofing problems: the financial state of the business and the liability associated with it.  Each winter, businesses must budget for roofing maintenance and liability issues.

Winter inspections help businesses:

• Prevent emergency repairs, which are often more expensive and disruptive
• Extend the lifespan of the roof by addressing problems early
• Plan repairs proactively, rather than reacting during peak storm seasons
• Protect interiors, equipment, and inventory from water damage
• Maintain safety and compliance, especially for occupied commercial spaces

Being able to catch the problem as early as possible allows for a repair rather than a replacement, which is a big way to minimize the cost at the same time lower the risk of damage.

Topper Roofing’s Winter Commercial Inspection Plan

Commercial roofs need a different level of consideration compared to residential roofs. Topper Roofing has a process that focuses on clarity, documentation, and practical steps for business owners to know exactly where their commercial roof stands.

Topper Roofing’s Winter Commercial Inspection Plan includes:

• Clear, straightforward assessments, not vague recommendations
• Photo documentation to show what’s happening on your roof
• Honest prioritization, separating urgent issues from items that can be planned for later
• Maryland-specific experience, understanding how local weather patterns affect commercial buildings

There is no intent to “sell” repairs; the goal is to provide business owners with the ability to make an informed decision that protects their building and operations.

When To Schedule A Winter Inspection

The best time to have a winter inspection of a roof is before any small issues develop. An inspection is usually done: 

• Early in winter, before heavy snow or repeated freeze-thaw cycles
• After major storms, especially if ice or standing water is present
• When planning budgets for spring maintenance or capital improvements

For businesses with older roofs or a history of leaks, winter inspections are especially important.

A Smarter Way to Protect Your Commercial Property

Your business relies on its roof every day of the year. We at Topper Roofing believe that winter roof inspection aims to identify issues as early as possible to prevent the early onset of damage that cannot be seen from within the building, so that corrective repairs can be made as soon as possible.

For Maryland businesses, winter roof inspections aren’t just about maintenance. They’re about protecting operations, controlling costs, and extending the life of a critical asset.
If you want a clearer picture of how your commercial roof is holding up this winter, a professional inspection is a smart place to start. Contact us to earn more or schedule a free inspection.