As commercial roofing contractors in Columbus, we know the last stretch of winter can be full of surprises. One week it’s in the 40s, the next there’s freezing snow and wind again. That kind of back-and-forth can cause small roof issues to show up fast. By early February, we’re already thinking about what needs to happen before the first spring rains hit.
Getting things started now means fewer headaches later. We can spot problem areas before they spread, make early repairs, and line up materials before supply delays creep in. A well-timed prep season makes all the difference. Here’s how we focus our winter-to-spring shift work so commercial roofs stay dry and ready as the weather starts to change.
Checking the Roof After Winter Weather
Snow melt, ice buildup, and rough winds take a quiet toll on commercial roofs. If we wait until spring to notice problems, we might already be dealing with leaks or structural issues. That’s why now is the time to start inspections, even while it’s still chilly outside.
• We walk the roof looking for signs of damage from the freeze-thaw cycle, especially on flat or low-slope surfaces
• Drainage issues show up in areas with leftover ponding, which can start to break down roof material if it sticks around
• We check seams and flashing first, since they’re good indicators of wear, lifted edges and cracks can let water in quick
• Minor punctures from tree limbs or debris tossed around in windstorms are common this time of year and easy to miss if we don’t look closely
These early checks help us figure out where attention is needed now and what can wait a bit longer. Quick spot fixes are easier while everything’s still dry up top.
Cleaning and Clearing Debris for Better Drainage
During the colder months, most roofs aren’t cleaned regularly. That’s not a problem if the surface stayed clear, but many buildings take on some level of junk by the end of winter. From blockages in the drain lines to piles of broken limbs or trash near vents, these leftovers can cause real trouble when spring rain starts falling.
• We remove anything clogging drains, internal gutters, and scuppers to make sure water clears out properly
• Sweeping clear the roof’s surface helps us see damage we might miss otherwise
• On gravel-ballasted roofs, we look for thinning areas or bare spots, which may point to drainage shifts or wind movement
• We keep an eye on corners and low spots, where snow piles often melt last and can hide both damage and blockage
Making the space clean now saves time during repair, and it helps prevent new damage when all that spring water needs a place to go.
All American Roof Pros offers expert commercial roof maintenance and inspection services in Columbus and throughout Central and Northern Ohio, specializing in flat and low-slope membrane roofs, TPO, EPDM, and metal options for offices, shopping centers, and industrial buildings.
Scheduling Repairs Before the Rush
Some repairs need to be handled right away. Others can wait, but that doesn’t mean they should be delayed. In February, we like to lock in the game plan for spring work so nothing gets left behind in the shuffle.
• Once the inspection is finished, we decide if patching, membrane work, or partial replacements should be organized quickly
• We talk with property managers to decide on timing around business hours or tenant schedules
• Materials get ordered early, especially if the roof has special coatings or systems that might take longer to arrive
• Booking early keeps things flexible, that way if weather delays one job, we can slide another in without losing days
Planning ahead makes the whole season smoother. That starts now, not when everyone else scrambles to get on the books in March.
Reviewing Roof Coatings and Sealants
Coatings and seals take a beating in the winter. If they’re going to break down, it usually starts around this time of year when it warms up during the day and gets cold again overnight. A careful review helps us figure out where weaknesses might lead to leaks later.
• We test surface areas where coatings are no longer even or have faded patches, that’s often where water will pool and seep in
• Sealants at flashing lines, roof edges, and penetrations are checked and reapplied where needed
• We schedule refresh work for dry days with moderate temperatures because those are the best conditions for sealing jobs to cure properly
• If areas see low foot traffic, we like to knock out coating renewals early, so it’s done before equipment servicing or other trades add wear
Paying attention to these smaller details makes the difference between a solid spring and one filled with callbacks and complaints.
Planning for Seasonal Switchover Projects
Spring is when building owners often plan bigger updates. That could mean adding new equipment on the roof or modifying vent stacks, skylights, or support rails. These projects need space, roof prep, and in some cases, permits, so we start figuring that out now.
• Jobs like equipment platform installs or skylight replacements get reviewed alongside roofing status
• We make note of which roof areas need added support structures, especially for HVAC or tall vent stacks
• If the job requires scaffolding or tie-offs for access, we organize that well ahead of time
• We also consider the long-term impact, spring additions should never weaken the roof’s structure or its waterproofing layer
By getting these projects lined up now, we help avoid conflict with summer rains or backlog from city inspections.
Set the Roof Up for a Smoother Spring
Getting spring-ready isn’t about rushing jobs or squeezing in everything before March. It’s about smart timing. When we watch the weather, make early inspections, and plan solid repair schedules, we stay ahead of the curve.
Columbus weather can flip fast, and it’s the unpredictable shifts that tend to catch buildings by surprise. By stepping in during February, we give commercial roofs the best shot at staying protected and leak-free longer. When tenants stay dry and building managers don’t get emergency calls during storms, we know we did the work right.
Now’s the perfect time to get ahead of roof repairs and water issues before spring. We help property owners keep things predictable by inspecting for winter wear, removing debris, and addressing common low-slope trouble spots before the heavy rain arrives. Experience matters when it comes to flat roofing systems, especially for older membranes or roofs with frequent foot traffic. To learn how our commercial roofing contractors can prepare your building for the season, contact All American Roof Pros today.