April Showers: Maintaining Your Commercial Roof Through Heavy Rain

April’s frequent rains can cause real problems for building owners—especially in Missouri where spring weather can be intense. For local experts like Chance Construction & Design, which offers residential and commercial roofing, this is a key time to help clients stay safe. Heavy rain can damage roofs, cause leaks, encourage mold growth, and lead to expensive repairs. This guide shares simple steps to protect your commercial roof during the rainy season.

If you’re thinking about buying a water damaged house, this article is even more important. Hidden roof leaks can cause mold, which is why mold inspection in St. Louis is a must.

The Impact of Heavy Rain on Commercial Roofs

Flat or low-sloped roofs, which are common in commercial buildings, tend to collect water. If this water doesn’t drain off properly, it can lead to serious problems:

Structural Stress

• Water is heavy. When it pools on a roof, it adds pressure that can weaken the structure over time—and in severe cases, even lead to collapse.

Membrane Degradation

• Roofs have a waterproof layer (or membrane) that can wear out if it’s constantly wet. Over time, this can lead to holes and cracks.

Interior Damage

• Water leaks don’t just stay on the roof. They can get into ceilings, walls, insulation, and equipment. When this happens, you’ll likely need rapid mold removal service.

The best way to avoid these problems is with regular checks and fast action.

To learn more about how rain affects roofing materials, visit this National Roofing Contractors Association guide.

Essential Maintenance Tips for Rainy Seasons

Conduct Pre-Storm Planning & Risk Assessment

Getting ready before storms hit can save you a lot of trouble. Here are a few simple things you can do:

• Check past weather patterns to know what to expect in your area.
• Remove debris like leaves and twigs from around roof drains and equipment.
• Take photos of your roof before a storm. If you have damage later, these photos will help with insurance claims.

Chance Construction & Design offers these types of assessments to help you prepare.

To learn how to prepare your business for bad weather, check out FEMA’s Ready Business Toolkit.

Schedule Regular Roof Inspections

It’s smart to have your roof inspected twice a year—once in spring, and once in fall. During an inspection, professionals will look at several critical areas:

Roof Surface

• This is the first thing inspectors check. They look for cracks, blisters, soft spots, and areas where water may be pooling. These signs indicate potential weak points where leaks can develop.

Flashings

• Flashings are metal strips that seal roof edges, vents, and pipes. If they’re loose, rusted, or cracked, water can seep in. Inspectors will ensure these are secure and watertight.

Seams and Joints

• These are the connection points between different roofing materials. Over time, seams can separate or wear out. Inspectors will look for gaps and areas that may need resealing or patching.

Here’s a helpful roof inspection checklist to get started.

Also, look out for signs of leaks and consider a water damage evaluation if you find any trouble spots.

Maintain Drainage Systems

Water must drain properly to avoid damage. Be sure to check:

Gutters and Downspouts

• Make sure they’re not clogged and are firmly attached to the building.

Internal Drains

• Clear these of dirt and debris so water can flow easily.

Scuppers

• These are exit points for water on flat roofs. They need to stay open and clean.

Address Ponding Water Promptly

If water is sitting on your roof for more than 48 hours, you have a problem. You should:

Re-sloping

• This means adjusting the slope of your roof so water naturally flows toward drains. It can be done by building up areas of the roof that are too flat or low.

Installing Additional Drains

• Adding extra drains gives rainwater more places to go. This helps water move off the roof quickly and reduces the risk of pooling in low areas.

Applying Protective Coatings

• These coatings are like an extra waterproof shield on your roof. They help prevent water from seeping into the surface and also reflect sunlight to keep the building cooler.

If ponding has already caused leaks, you may need equipment for water damage restoration or even midwest flood restoration.

Fixing these issues now can save you a lot of money later.

Proactive Measures for Long-Term Protection

Implement a Roof Maintenance Program

Having a regular plan to care for your roof helps you stay ahead of damage. Chance Construction & Design recommends:

Regular Inspections

• Conducting inspections each season allows you to spot wear and tear early. Small cracks, loose materials, or clogged drains can be found before they become serious issues.

Timely Repairs

• If you notice even a small problem like a minor leak or loose flashing, don’t put off the repair. Fast action prevents damage from spreading and saves you money down the line.

Documentation

• Keep written records and photos of all inspections and repairs. These are valuable for insurance claims, warranty discussions, and keeping a maintenance history for future planning.

Establish an Emergency Roof Response Plan

Despite best efforts, storms can bring unpredictable damage. Ensure your business is equipped to act quickly with an emergency response plan:

• Maintain contact info for your roofing contractor (Chance Construction & Design).
• Have tarps or temporary repair materials on hand.
• Know your building’s shut-off valves for electricity and water to prevent interior flooding.

A well-documented action plan reduces repair time and protects business continuity.

For general commercial roofing system maintenance guidelines, refer to this GAF commercial maintenance guide.

Invest in Quality Roofing Materials

Using the right materials makes a big difference. Chance Construction & Design recommends:

Modified Bitumen

• A strong, waterproof material ideal for flat roofs.

Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO)

• Reflects heat and is flexible, which helps during hot or cold weather.

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)

• A rubber-like material that lasts long and resists water.

If you’ve had leaks, this might also be the time to look into a free home mold inspection or schedule mold remediation St. Louis services.

Stay Ahead of Roof Issues This Rainy Season

April’s heavy rains underscore the importance of diligent commercial roof maintenance, especially in regions like Missouri where storms can be unpredictable. By conducting regular inspections, maintaining effective drainage, and taking proactive measures, you can prevent expensive damage and downtime. As a trusted expert in roofing and foundation systems, Chance Construction & Design is here to help you stay ahead of the weather. Don’t wait for leaks to act—book your free spring roof inspection today and ensure your business stays dry, secure, and operational all season long.