A snow-covered roof can sure look pretty during the winter—but unfortunately, the weight of that beautiful precipitation can cause problems. An aging or flat roof structure may not be designed to withstand several inches of snow, leading to bowed or broken roofing. And if snow covers and blocks your gutters, your home is likely to form ice dams at the edges, which can also cause leaks.
One helpful solution is to push snow off your roof to lessen the load, reduce icing, and prevent the possibility of moisture damage. But the key is to do it safely! Here’s how to handle this task so that you don’t harm your roof—or risk injuring yourself in the process.
5 Steps to Safely Getting Rid of a Snowy Roof
1. Put Your Safety First
It’s risky to climb onto your roof, especially during snowy, icy conditions, and we don’t recommend it. Instead, dress in warm layers, including gloves, a hat, and sturdy boots with a good grip—and work with both feet firmly on the ground. Clearing your roof of snow is hard work, just as shoveling is. Take lots of breaks to rest, and if you’re not in the best of health, hire someone to handle the work for you.
2. Invest in a Roof Rake
A roof rake is specifically designed for removing snow, making it safer to use than other tools. The roof rake’s telescoping handle allows you to reach up and easily remove snow from the ground. If your rake has a metal handle, remember that it can conduct electricity—so avoid power lines. Better yet, replace the metal handle with a non-metal one.
3. Gently Remove Snow‚ Leaving a Thin Layer in Place
To remove the snow, stand firmly on the ground in a spot that isn’t slick to reduce the chances you’ll slip and fall. Place the rake at the edge of your roof and carefully pull the snow downward so it slides off. Stand to one side while you do this, so the snow and ice you dislodge doesn’t fall directly onto you. It’s also important to prevent the rake from scraping your roof shingles—so leave an inch or two of snow on the roof as a barrier against the rake’s prongs.
4. Clear Gutters Too
Your roof rake will only reach the parts of the roof closest to the eaves—which is fine as long as you don’t have a massive snowfall to deal with. (If you do have 12 inches or more on your roof, it’s time to call a professional to clear your roof.) The reason you’re doing this is to promote snow melt, prevent ice dams, and make sure your gutters can handle the runoff. Be sure gutters are as clear as can be, with downspouts firmly attached and pointed away from your foundation. Gently knock down icicles before they grow larger and pose a safety hazard to anyone walking beneath them.
5. Consider Home Upgrades Prior to Next Winter
If snow accumulations are weakening your roof or causing leaks year after year, it’s time to find a way to better safeguard your home. Constant ice dams and huge icicles on your eaves are likely the result of a roof that isn’t well ventilated or properly insulated. Older roofing that’s out of code may be more susceptible to damage. A trusted local roofing company can assess these issues for you and provide you with options that will give you long-term peace of mind.
Protect Your Home with a Beautiful New Roof
If you’re tired of an outdated roof that is susceptible to ice dams and leaks from snow accumulation, it may be time for a lasting solution—a roof replacement with high-performing materials, installed by our pro team at Iron River Construction.
Learn more about how our roofing installation, replacement, and repair services can give you a beautiful, low-maintenance home all year-round!
