July 27, 2013 Laura MacCormac
As the sweltering heat of summer settles into North America once again, it can be easy to forget the equally notorious effects that our harsh northern winters have on our commercial and residential properties. Nestled deep in the heart of the continent, Ontario’s climate covers one of the widest ranges of average weather patterns anywhere on the planet. From the scorching heat and thick humidity of July and August, all the way to the gusty blowing snowstorms of early January, structures here must simply be built to a different standard.
Of course, alongside better construction also comes a need for better attention to maintenance and upkeep as well. Particularly when it comes to rooftops, Ontario’s environmental conditions are a real challenge to even the most knowledgeable and experienced roofing contractors. As summer air thickens with moisture, water essentially becomes airborne, permeating and settling into every crack and crevice it can find. Most people think that a single heavy rainfall is needed for water damage to become a reality in their home or business, but the truth is that humidity in the air can be just as damaging.
As the moisture settles into the roof’s structure and the weather begins to cool off with winter’s approach, freezing and expanding becomes an increasingly real possibility. Once this expanding occurs, there is no telling the extent to which property damage can be incurred. From minor repairs to complete replacements, a single freeze can leave a lasting mark on any structure.
Because these tiny permeations are notoriously difficult to locate with the naked eye, the only way to prevent this kind of disastrous outcome is by hiring experienced professionals to perform regular roof services and inspections on your property. Twice per year, experts recommend simply having your property inspected by a trained eye. With a single, simple step, it is possible to locate and prevent damage before it has a chance to accumulate; the kind of common sense decision that defines responsible property management.
Your rooftop might not be the first thing on your mind in the heat of summer, but it is definitely the last thing you want to have forced onto your mind in the dead of winter.