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Handling Snow & Ice on Flat Commercial Roofs in the PNW
Best Practices for Snow Removal, Ice Dam Prevention, and Smart Winter Roof Management
In the Pacific Northwest, winter weather can be unpredictable — heavy rain one day, a surprise snowstorm the next. For commercial buildings with flat or low-slope roofs, managing snow and ice isn’t just about safety; it’s about protecting your investment and preventing costly water damage. At Axiom D7, a trusted Seattle commercial roofing company, we help businesses prepare their roofs for the challenges that come with the region’s wet and icy winters.
Why Snow and Ice Are a Concern for Flat Roofs
Flat commercial roofing, while practical and efficient, are more susceptible to water pooling and structural strain during snow and freeze-thaw cycles. Even a few inches of wet snow can weigh thousands of pounds, and melting snow that refreezes overnight can form dangerous ice dams around drains, skylights, and HVAC units. Left unmanaged, these conditions can lead to leaks, membrane damage, and even roof collapse.
Best Practices for Safe Snow Removal
- Avoid Metal Tools:
Use plastic shovels or roof rakes designed for flat roofs to prevent puncturing or tearing the membrane. - Work Evenly:
Remove snow in thin, even layers rather than piling it to one side, which can cause uneven weight distribution. - Leave a Light Layer:
Don’t scrape down to the roof surface — leaving about an inch of snow helps protect the membrane from accidental damage. - Call a Professional:
For heavy accumulation or hard-to-access roofs, always rely on a trained commercial roofing contractor. Axiom D7 offers safe, efficient snow and ice removal for Seattle-area businesses, ensuring your roof stays protected all winter long.
Preventing Ice Dams on Flat Roofs
Ice dams form when melting snow refreezes along colder roof edges, blocking proper drainage. In the PNW, where temperature swings are common, this problem can quickly escalate.
Prevention Tips:
- Ensure Proper Insulation: Adequate insulation keeps indoor heat from escaping through the roof, preventing uneven snowmelt.
- Check Roof Drainage: Make sure roof drains and scuppers are clear before winter hits.
- Install Heat Cables (Strategically): Heat cables can help maintain flow in gutters and drains, but they work best when combined with proper insulation and roof slope management.
- Schedule a Winter Roof Inspection: Axiom D7 offers proactive roof maintenance programs to identify and address insulation gaps, drainage issues, and other vulnerabilities before the cold sets in.
Heat Cables vs. Insulation: Which Is Better?
Both have their place — but they solve different problems:
- Heat Cables: Ideal for keeping roof drains and gutters clear of ice. They’re a good short-term fix, especially for problem areas.
- Insulation Upgrades: A long-term solution that reduces heat loss, lowers energy bills, and prevents ice dams from forming in the first place.
For Seattle businesses, a combination approach works best: improved insulation inside, heat cables on key exterior points, and regular roof maintenance to ensure performance.
Partner with Seattle’s Commercial Roofing Experts
When snow and ice hit the Puget Sound region, you need a roofing contractor that understands local weather patterns and commercial roof systems. Axiom D7 provides:
- Commercial roof snow and ice removal
- Winter roof inspections and maintenance
- Insulation assessments and upgrades
- Emergency leak repairs and waterproofing
We help Seattle property managers, building owners, and facility teams keep their roofs in top condition — no matter what the weather brings.
Prepare Your Roof for Winter Today
Don’t wait until the next snowstorm to take action. Schedule a winter readiness inspection with Axiom D7 and ensure your commercial roof is safe, efficient, and ready to handle the PNW’s toughest conditions. Contact us to learn more.
