How to Address the Impact of Snow and Ice on Commercial Roofs

The Snow and Ice Have Arrived. Design Components, Inc. Offers Tips and Steel Building Accessories To Help Keep Your Commercial Building Protected.

For much of the country, winter has officially arrived, bringing the challenges of snow and ice. These elements can wreak havoc on roofs for commercial building owners and facility managers if not addressed proactively. As temperatures drop, Design Components, Inc., the chosen supplier for steel building accessories offers tips to prepare your commercial building for the coming winter events.

Here’s how you can mitigate the impact of snow and ice on your commercial roof and protect your investment with the right solutions.

A study by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety reveals that snow and ice accumulation contributes to billions of dollars in property damage annually, with commercial buildings particularly vulnerable due to their expansive, flat roof designs.

The Structural Strain of Snow Accumulation

steel-building-accessories-snowaccum-2025 Heavy snow can exert tremendous pressure on a commercial roof, leading to sagging, leaks, or even collapse in extreme cases. This is particularly true for flat or low-slope roofs commonly found in commercial buildings.

Solution: Regular snow removal is crucial to preventing structural damage.

To ensure safety during snow removal, the MetalWalk® Rooftop Walkway System by Design Components, Inc. provides stable and OSHA-compliant access across rooftops. This system reduces wear and tear by minimizing direct roof contact while protecting workers from slip-and-fall accidents.

Ice Dams and Water Intrusion

Ice dams form when snow melts on a warm roof and refreezes at the colder edges. This can cause water to back up under the roof’s surface, leading to leaks, insulation damage, and mold growth.

Solution: Ensure proper drainage and inspect roof curbs and hatches for integrity.

Roof curbs from Design Components, Inc. are designed to provide a secure, weatherproof seal for rooftop penetrations, preventing water infiltration and ensuring long-term performance.

Snow Slides and Rooftop Hazards

Large sheets of snow or ice sliding off a sloped roof can be dangerous for personnel and property. These slides can damage gutters, equipment, and landscaping or even pose risks to pedestrians below.

Solution: Install a snow retention system to prevent the uncontrolled movement of snow and ice.

Design Components, Inc. offers reliable snow retention products that keep accumulated snow securely in place, reducing risks and protecting your building.

Compromised Ventilation and Safety Systems

Blocked vents and smoke hatches due to snow and ice can compromise air circulation and reduce the effectiveness of emergency safety systems.

Solution: Incorporate robust hatches and smoke vents into your roof design to ensure proper ventilation and emergency egress.

Design Components, Inc. provides high-quality roof hatches and smoke vents built to withstand harsh winter conditions. Properly installed curbs and hatches provide a secure seal against water intrusion, ensuring your building’s safety features remain operational year-round.

Prolonged Wear and Tear on Roof Materials

The freeze-thaw cycle common in winter can cause significant wear on roofing materials, leading to cracks and deterioration over time.

Solution: Regular inspections and timely repairs are vital.

Design Components, Inc.’s steel building accessories, including roof curbs and walkways, make it easier to access and maintain key areas of your roof, extending its lifespan and reducing overall maintenance costs.

Protect Your Commercial Roof Today With Design Components, Inc., The Chosen Provider of Steel Building Accessories For Winter and All Year Long

Don’t let snow and ice compromise the safety and integrity of your commercial building. With the right tools and proactive measures, you can minimize winter’s impact and extend the life of your roof.

From snow retention systems to rooftop walkways, we have the solutions for steel building accessories that ensure safety, durability, and peace of mind.