How to Prepare Your Commercial Roof for Winter in Michigan and Tennessee
When winter hits Michigan or Tennessee, it doesn’t hold back—just in different ways. Michigan deals with relentless snow, freezing rain, and icy winds. Tennessee, on the other hand, faces fluctuating temperatures, cold rain, occasional ice storms, and quick freeze-thaw cycles that can sneak up on unprepared commercial buildings. If you own or manage a commercial property in either state, you already know: winter can be brutal on your roof.
A small issue in the fall can turn into a massive (and expensive) problem by mid-January. So the big question is: how do you prepare your commercial roof for winter?
At Weather Shield Roofing Systems™, we’ve been helping Michigan and Tennessee businesses protect their roofs for over 40 years. We understand how different winter conditions strain even the toughest roofing systems. That’s why we’re walking you through the essential steps to winterize your commercial roof and avoid costly emergencies—no matter which state you’re in.
Why Should I Winterize My Commercial Roof in Michigan and Tennessee?
Winter roof damage isn’t just about a few drips. It’s about protecting your entire building’s structure and your peace of mind. In Michigan, heavy snowfall and sub-zero temps can lead to ice dams, frozen drains, and serious structural stress. In Tennessee, milder but unpredictable winters create unique risks, like surprise ice storms, standing water from cold rain, and rapid freeze-thaw damage.
Whether your building is in Grand Rapids or Nashville, here’s the truth: unprepared commercial roofs are at serious risk once winter sets in.
Winterizing now saves you money, stress, and emergency roof repairs down the line.
What Are the Most Important Winter Roof Prep Steps?
Let’s break down what you can do right now to get ahead of winter issues. These are the most effective ways to prepare your commercial roof for winter in both Michigan and Tennessee.
Get a Professional Commercial Roof Inspection
Why do I need a roof inspection before winter?
Because even minor roof issues can escalate quickly when temperatures drop. A thorough inspection helps you catch:
Cracks in the membrane
Loose flashing
Ponding water
Worn or missing sealants
Minor leaks that aren’t visible yet
At Weather Shield, we recommend two roof inspections per year—one in the spring and one in the fall. The fall inspection is key to preparing for what’s coming, whether it’s lake-effect snow in Michigan or a sudden freeze in Tennessee.
Our experienced team knows what to look for across different climates and roof types. We don’t miss the small stuff that can cause big headaches.
Check and Clear Roof Drains, Gutters, and Downspouts
What happens if my roof drains are blocked during winter?
You could end up with a major problem called an ice dam. This is especially common in Michigan, but Tennessee roofs are vulnerable too when cold rain freezes overnight. If water can’t drain, it pools—and pooled water finds its way inside.
Here’s how to prevent it:
Clear all debris from drains, scuppers, gutters, and downspouts.
Make sure water flows freely away from the roof.
In colder regions or shaded roof areas, consider adding heat cables to keep drainage paths open.
Whether you’re in Memphis or Detroit, blocked drains plus freezing temps equals a roof leak waiting to happen.
Remove Debris and Inspect Roof Surface
Should I clean my commercial roof before winter?
Absolutely. Leaves, branches, and debris trap moisture and speed up membrane breakdown, especially during freeze-thaw cycles in both Michigan and Tennessee.
To prep your roof surface:
Remove all debris—especially near drainage areas.
Check for low spots where water tends to collect.
Look for blisters, punctures, or signs of wear in the membrane.
A clean roof helps water flow off and makes it easier to spot problems before they grow.
Look for Signs of Roof Damage or Wear
How do I know if my roof needs repairs before winter?
Start by asking:
Do you see water stains inside your building?
Have you patched the roof recently?
Is there visible damage around rooftop HVAC units or flashing?
Even if you’re not seeing signs inside yet, damage on the surface can become urgent during winter. Cold weather makes materials brittle—and snow or ice can add unexpected weight and pressure.
Review Your Roof Warranty and Maintenance Records
Why should I look at my roof’s history before winter?
Your records help you and your roofer identify weak spots or recurring issues. Knowing how old your roof is, when it was last serviced, and any recent repairs helps us target potential trouble areas—especially useful in climates with wild temperature swings like Tennessee or sustained cold like Michigan.
Also, some warranties require regular maintenance to stay valid. Having that info ready keeps you protected if you need warranty service.
Consider a Winter Roof Maintenance Plan
Is a seasonal roof maintenance plan worth it in the Midwest or the South?
Yes—and it’s one of the smartest decisions you can make. Our Max Life Roof Care™ program is designed to prevent surprises during the winter months.
With Max Life, you get:
Scheduled inspections
Detailed condition reports
Preventive repairs
Emergency response readiness
No matter where your commercial property is located, routine maintenance helps you avoid mid-winter stress and unexpected repair costs.
How Can I Prevent Roof Leaks in the Winter?
Preventing winter leaks on a commercial roof boils down to:
- Inspections – Find and fix problems before cold weather sets in.
- Drainage – Keep pathways clear to prevent ponding and ice dams.
- Maintenance – Ongoing roof care reduces the risk of emergencies.
Snow doesn’t always cause the leak—it’s the melting, refreezing, and trapped water that does the damage. Proper preparation makes all the difference.
What If I Already Have a Leak or Water Damage?
Don’t wait until spring. Leaks get worse when water freezes and expands, and winter weather makes emergency repairs more difficult and costly.
Whether you’re in Lansing or Chattanooga, get ahead of the damage. Call in a commercial roofing expert for emergency repairs and cold-weather stabilization.
At Weather Shield, we have dedicated crews trained for winter roofing services across both Michigan and Tennessee. We’ll help you stop the leak and put a plan in place to prevent future damage.
What Kind of Roof Is Best for Cold Climates Like Michigan or Milder Winters Like Tennessee?
Both states need strong, reliable commercial roofing—but the best system can vary based on your location and building use.
- In Michigan, single-ply membranes like TPO and PVC perform well with proper insulation and maintenance.
- In Tennessee, these same systems work great, but proper slope and drainage design are just as important due to heavier rainfall and freeze-thaw risks.
- Metal roofs can also hold up well in both climates when snow and runoff are properly managed.
Whatever your roof type, the key to winter performance is inspection, drainage, and preventive maintenance.
Getting your commercial roof ready for winter might feel like just another task, but it’s one that protects your entire building investment. At Weather Shield Roofing Systems™, we’ve seen how a little planning in the fall can save business owners thousands in emergency repairs when winter hits hard—whether that’s in Michigan or Tennessee.
Whether you need a winter inspection, emergency repair, or want to explore Max Life Roof Care™, our team is ready to help.
Don’t wait for the next snow or ice storm to test your roof. Contact Weather Shield Roofing Systems today to schedule your commercial roof inspection and make sure your building is ready for winter!
Ken McNulty
Sales Executive
Ken McNulty brings over 30 years of hands-on experience in the commercial roofing industry, starting on a crew and eventually owning Morrow Roofing from 1991 to 2019. Now a Sales Executive at Weather Shield Roofing Systems, he continues to deliver tailored roofing solutions—most recently expanding the company’s reach into the Nashville, Tennessee market.
