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The Facility Manager’s Commercial Roof Fall Maintenance Checklist, New England Edition

  • Writer: Jamie Aylwin
    Jamie Aylwin
  • Aug 21
  • 2 min read

Updated: 5 days ago

Winter is tough on flat and low-slope roofs. A focused fall checklist prevents ice dams, wind damage, and surprise leaks when it is cold and busy. Use this plan to get your building ready.

Modern office buildings with curved facades and snow covered roofs on a snowy day. Blue sky and barren trees in the background.

Person in green gloves clears wet leaves with a wooden tool from a commercial roof. Overcast atmosphere, wet surface.
Removing debris from your roof helps to prevent erosion and future leaking

1) Clear the Roof

Remove branches, packaging, loose ballast, and anything that can trap water. Confirm that walk pads cover common routes to equipment.



White wall with orange trim shows a close-up of an unobstructed scupper. The setting is outdoors atop a warehouse with green foliage in the blurred background.
Clearing drains and scuppers will prevent flooding and other damage to your commercial roof.

2) Check Drains, Scuppers and Overflows

Make sure every drain is moving water. Snake or flush if needed. Clean strainers, confirm that overflows are unobstructed, and note any ponding rings that signal sagging insulation.


Silver rooftop ventilator on a flat roof, surrounded by autumn trees with vibrant red and yellow leaves under a clear blue sky.
Example of healthy flashings

3) Inspect Flashings and Penetrations on Commercial Roofs


Look at pipe boots, curb flashings, terminations, and edge metal. Mark lifted seams or cracked sealant for repair. Photograph issues for the record.


Brick building corner with brown, cream, and white stripe bricks under clear blue sky. Parapet and scupper visible.
Look out for cracks and damage on roof and walls

4) Review Parapets, Expansion Joints and Walls

Check for splits, open laps, or loose coping. Many leaks start at transitions rather than in the field.



Thermal image showing a parapet on a commercial building's roof. Heat signatures in red, yellow, and green dominate, creating an abstract pattern.
Infrared Moisture Scan


Schedule a scan on a dry evening after a sunny day. The report shows wet insulation that should be replaced before it freezes and expands.


Snow-covered metal roof of a large commercial warehouse against a blue sky. The snow forms a thick, uneven layer, creating a hazard.
Heavy snow can lead to collapse

Ask your contractor to verify fastening density at perimeters and corners and to confirm snow management plans. Identify safe staging zones for snow removal teams.


Two workers in yellow helmets on a rooftop, one with a tablet, the other pointing. Both wear safety gear.
Roofing contractors discuss a winter maintenance schedule to minimize the effects of the weather.

7) Document and Schedule Repairs

Create a list with photos, locations, and severity. Set repair priorities for before winter, during winter, and spring. Store everything in a shared folder with your warranty.


8) Book a Spring Follow-up

A second inspection after thaw gives you early visibility into any damage.

Want a one-visit fall tune-up and a clean report for your files? Book a Maintenance Visit with a certified crew.


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