Severe storms are a regular challenge for commercial buildings across Missouri and Illinois. High winds, hail, and heavy rain can place significant stress on any roofing system — including durable PVC systems like Duro-Last.
While Duro-Last roofs are designed to perform well in demanding conditions, it is still important to inspect the roof after a major storm. Damage is not always obvious from the ground, and early evaluation helps prevent small issues from turning into larger problems.
Here is how roofing contractors typically assess a Duro-Last roof after severe weather.
Inspecting the Membrane Surface
The first step in a post-storm inspection is evaluating the condition of the PVC membrane itself.
Contractors look for signs of impact or physical damage such as:
Punctures caused by debris
Cuts or tears in the membrane
Areas of excessive wear from wind-driven material
While Duro-Last membranes are reinforced and designed to resist punctures, severe hail or storm debris can occasionally cause localized damage.
Identifying these areas early allows repairs to be made before water has a chance to enter the roofing system.
Checking Seam Integrity
Duro-Last roofing systems use heat-welded seams, which create strong bonds between membrane sections. Even so, contractors carefully evaluate seam integrity after severe weather.
During an inspection, roofing professionals will check for:
Seam separation or lifting
Areas where wind may have stressed the membrane
Signs of water infiltration along seam lines
Because seams are critical to keeping the roofing system watertight, confirming their condition is an important part of any storm evaluation.
Evaluating Flashing and Roof Penetrations
Many leaks after storms occur not in the main roof field, but around penetrations and flashing areas.
Contractors will inspect locations such as:
HVAC curbs
Vent pipes
Exhaust fans
Electrical penetrations
Flashing around these areas must remain properly sealed to prevent water intrusion. High winds or hail impact can sometimes loosen components or create small openings that need attention.
Examining Roof Edges and Perimeter Areas
Roof edges are one of the most vulnerable parts of any commercial roofing system during severe weather.
Contractors will check perimeter areas for:
Loose or damaged edge metal
Membrane termination issues
Fasteners that may have pulled away due to wind uplift
Addressing these issues quickly helps maintain the integrity of the entire roofing system.
Checking Drainage and Debris
Storms often leave debris behind that can affect roof drainage.
During an inspection, contractors clear and examine:
Roof drains
Scuppers
Gutters
Low areas where water may collect
Ensuring proper drainage helps prevent ponding water, which can place additional stress on the roof membrane over time.
The Importance of a Professional Post-Storm Inspection
Even when a roof appears undamaged from the ground, severe weather can leave behind hidden issues that develop into leaks later.
A professional inspection ensures the roofing system — including membranes, seams, flashing, and drainage components — is functioning as intended after the storm.
At Jewett Roofing, our team works with commercial property owners throughout Missouri and Illinois to evaluate roofing systems after severe weather and address any storm-related damage before it becomes a larger problem.
Reliable commercial roofing inspections and repairs when you need them most.
