Is Your Commercial Roof Ready for Spring? Minnesota's Freeze-Thaw Cycle Could Be Costing You More Than You Think

Minnesota winters don't just test your patience - they test your roof.

And as temperatures start to rise, many commercial building owners discover damage they didn't even know existed.

The biggest culprit? The freeze-thaw cycle.

If your commercial roof isn't prepared for spring, small winter issues can quickly turn into expensive repairs, leaks, or emergency replacements. The good news? Roof restoration is often the smartest, most cost-effective solution.

Let's break down what's happening to your roof right now - and what you can do about it.

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What Is the Freeze-Thaw Cycle (and Why It's So Hard on Roofs)?

Minnesota's weather often fluctuates above and below freezing - sometimes within the same day. This causes:

• Snow and ice to melt

• Water to seep into tiny cracks, seams, or weak spots

• Temperatures to drop again

• Water to refreeze and expand

That expansion widens cracks, loosens seams, and weakens roofing materials - even on roofs that look fine from the ground.

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Common Spring Roofing Problems We See in Minnesota

As winter ends, these are the most common issues discovered during commercial roof inspections:

• Hairline cracks turning into leaks

• Worn or failing roof coatings

• Separated seams and flashing

• Ponding water from ice dams

• Increased energy loss from compromised insulation

Left unchecked, these problems can lead to structural damage, mold, interior leaks, and higher energy bills.

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Why Roof Restoration Often Beats Replacement

Many business owners assume spring roofing problems mean full replacement - but that's not always true.

Roof restoration is often the better option because it:

✔ Costs up to 50% less than replacement

✔ Extends roof life by 10–30+ years

✔ Improves insulation and energy efficiency

✔ Minimizes downtime for your business

✔ Creates a seamless, waterproof surface

For many flat or low-slope commercial roofs in Minnesota, restoration - including spray foam roofing or advanced coating systems - delivers long-term protection without the cost or disruption of tearing everything off.

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Why Spring Is the Best Time to Act

Spring is the ideal season for roof restoration because:

• Winter damage becomes visible

• Weather conditions are optimal for coatings and SPF

• Scheduling is easier before peak summer demand

• Probelms are addressed before spring rains worsen them

Businesses that plan early get priority scheduling and avoid emergency repairs later.

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QUIZ: Does Your Commercial Roof Need Restoration This Spring?

👉 Answer these quick questions to find out:

Has your roof ever leaked - even slightly - in the past year?

• A. Yes
• B. Not Sure
• C. No

Are your heating or cooling costs higher than expected?

• A. Yes
• B. Maybe
• C. No

Is your roof over 10 years old?

• A. Yes
• B. Not sure
• C. No

Do you see standing water, cracks, or worn coatings on the roof?

• A. Yes
• B. Not sure
• C. No

Would an unexpected roof failure disrupt your business operations?

• A. Yes
• B. Somewhat
• C. No

🧾 Your Results

• Mostly A’s: Your roof is a strong candidate for restoration — and waiting could cost you more.

• Mix of A’s & B’s: A professional inspection is highly recommended.

• Mostly C’s: Your roof may be in good shape — but routine inspections still protect your investment.

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📞 Ready for Real Answers?

Online quizzes are helpful — but nothing replaces an expert evaluation.

At Stillwater Roofing, we provide free commercial roof inspections across Stillwater, the Twin Cities, and Central Minnesota. We’ll assess your roof honestly and help you decide whether restoration, spray foam roofing, or metal roofing is the best option for your building.

👉 Schedule your free inspection today and stay ahead of spring damage.