If you’ve ever had a roofing crew on your building during a storm or emergency, you know how quickly things can go wrong. Whether it’s a sudden roof leak during a reroof, a fire sparked by equipment, or strong winds tearing up loose materials, one thing becomes very clear: Preparation is everything. 

At Weather Shield Roofing Systems™, we’ve been protecting businesses for over 40 years—and we take safety and emergency preparedness seriously. That’s why we hold regular Safety Days to train our crews on how to handle the unexpected, prevent damage, and keep our clients’ properties safe. 

Here’s what we covered during our latest Safety Day, and how it translates directly into value and protection for your building. 

What Happens If a Roof Starts Leaking During a Project?

Roof leaks are one of the biggest fears for building owners during a roofing project—and for good reason. A minor leak during reroofing can cause tens of thousands in interior damage if it’s not handled fast. 

Our crews train for this exact situation. If water starts coming in during a project: 

• They immediately stop and assess the problem. 

• They communicate with the project supervisor and notify the customer. 

• They work to correct the issue immediately, whether it’s a misplaced P-trap, a loose seam, or a missed detail. 

We emphasize to our teams: “A small leak is always better than a catastrophe.” 

That’s why Weather Shield has built-in protocols to catch and respond to leaks before they escalate, even mid-project. 

How Do We Prevent Drain-Related Flooding on Commercial Roofs?

Drainage failures are a top cause of catastrophic roof flooding. If roof drains get clogged or overwhelmed during a storm, water backs up fast—and it doesn’t take long to find its way inside. 

Our Safety Day training drilled into the importance of proactive drain checks and communication: 

• Every morning before work begins, teams inspect roof drains, especially if weather is on the radar. 

• If something’s not working right, they alert their superintendent immediately to get parts or call in an emergency plumber. 

• In true emergency situations, they know how to improvise safely—using rags, plugs, or even clothing to slow water until a proper solution is installed. 

We also trained our crews on what NOT to do: 

“You never plug a drain unless the water block is properly sealed. Otherwise, you risk a blowout that sends water directly into the building.” 

These real-world scenarios help our crews stay sharp—and give our clients peace of mind that we’re watching the details that prevent disasters. 

How Do We Handle Fire Hazards on Roofing Jobs?

Commercial roofing involves heat sources—welders, generators, and adhesives. That means there’s always a fire risk if you’re not careful. 

On Safety Day, our team reviewed the fire triangle setup that should be standard on every job: 

• 25 feet between all flammables, fire extinguishers, and generators. 

• Only OSHA-approved metal fuel containers allowed on roofs. 

• Minimum two fire extinguishers per roof job—more if multiple generators or welders are in use. 

• 10-foot rule between each generator and its assigned extinguisher for quick access. 

We practiced using fire extinguishers with the PASS method (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep), and made sure every team member knew: 

“If the fire is too big, evacuate immediately and call 911. Don’t try to be a hero.” 

Safety isn’t just about checking boxes. It’s about making sure that every person on the roof knows how to act immediately in a crisis—so your building stays protected. 

What’s Our Plan When Strong Winds Hit Mid-Project?

One of the most overlooked threats to your commercial roof during construction is wind. Even a strong gust can send a loose sheet or tool flying—damaging HVAC units, skylights, or even nearby vehicles. 

That’s why our teams are trained to: 

• Weigh down all loose materials before leaving the site or before a storm hits. 

• Use ballast, plates, or secure adhesives when bonding can’t be completed right away. 

• Double-check all perimeter setups during wind advisories. 

Crews know that flying debris isn’t just a job hazard—it’s a liability. By taking the time to secure the site properly, we help ensure you’re not left with unexpected damage after a windy day. 

Why Should This Matter to You as a Commercial Property Owner or Manager?

At the end of the day, here’s why our Safety Day matters to you: 

• Fewer leaks and faster response in unexpected weather 

• Fire-safe job sites with trained crews and proper equipment 

• Wind protection that prevents property damage  

• Better communication when emergencies happen 

• Trained crews who don’t panic under pressure 

You don’t have to worry about what happens if something goes wrong—because we already trained for it. 

When you hire Weather Shield Roofing Systems™, you’re not just getting a roofing contractor. You’re getting a partner who’s planning for the “what ifs” before the first sheet is laid down. 

If you’re planning a roofing project or worried about how your current roof would hold up in an emergency, let’s talk. We’re here to keep your building leak-free, safe, and protected for the long run. 

Contact us today to learn how we can help you avoid emergencies before they happen. 

Nate Bush

Sales Director

Nate Bush brings over 20 years of experience in the commercial roofing industry, all with Weather Shield Roofing Systems. A graduate of Davenport University with a focus in entrepreneurship, Nate combines his industry expertise with strong leadership skills to head Weather Shield’s sales department. His deep knowledge of roofing solutions and commitment to customer service help drive the company’s growth and deliver exceptional value to clients.