Important Tips for Removing Snow from your Roof
With a strong and well-maintained roof, you can keep your family safe from the elements this winter and all year. Roof maintenance may be time-consuming, but it is critical to the long-term health of your roof and the overall structure of your home.
To avoid structural damage to the roof, proper snow removal and winter maintenance procedures must be followed. Snow, as beautiful as it is as it crystalizes and falls to the ground in the winter, may severely damage the roof if not handled properly. For peace of mind and sensible solutions, it’s always a good idea to get your roof inspected.
Safety Considerations
There are several hazards related with snow removal, particularly from the roof. First and foremost, you should never climb onto a snow-covered roof. They are prone to being slick and harmful. In addition, never use a ladder in the snow. The ladder will be prone to slipping, and the rungs may become frozen.
There is also the risk of hypothermia and frostbite. Wear layers of warm clothing to protect your extremities from the cold. Take frequent warm-up breaks inside.
You should also be cautious of overhead electrical cables. Metal roof rake extension poles are common. You risk electrocution if you walk around electricity lines with a 30-foot metal pole. Be cautious around them and consider purchasing a non-metal extension pole.
Finally, snow removal is not difficult, but it is exhausting. Every year, dozens of people die as a result of cardiac arrest while shoveling snow. If you are not in good health and have a history of heart problems, do not attempt to remove snow.
Although there is some risk involved, with the correct tools and a little attention, you can safely remove snow from a roof.
Snow Removal Tips
The quantity of snow and ice your roof can withstand is determined by a variety of factors, including the type of roof as well as the age and condition of the structure. However, if more than a foot of heavy, wet snow and ice has piled on your roof, you should have it removed.
Clearing snow from your roof’s gutters or eaves up to three to four feet after each winter storm will assist prevent the formation of ice dams. In snowy or icy weather, avoid using a ladder. This is extremely dangerous and must only be handled by professionals.
Flat Roofing
You may wish to shovel your flat roof if it is easily accessible from an interior stairwell, but be careful not to harm the roof covering. Make sure you can safely access the roof and stay away from the edge while working. Consider hiring a professional to clear the roof instead.
Slanted Roofs
A roof rake, a long-handled equipment built specifically for this purpose, may be able to clear snow and ice off your sloped roof. Stand on the ground and remove as much snow as you can safely reach from the eaves.
If you determine that snow removal is necessary, there are various precautions you can take to keep you and your roof safe throughout the process:
- Stay on the ground: Staying on the ground is the most crucial safety precaution you can take. Roofs are steep, and there is a great risk of slipping on wet or icy shingles. It only takes one mistake to ruin a snow day.
- Use a roof rake: A roof rake is one of the greatest remedies for a snowy roof. This tool is designed with a long handle to assist homeowners. While remaining safe on the ground, they remove snow from their roof. When pulling the rake across the roof, pay attention to avoid hooking it on shingles and ripping or cracking them.
- Call a pro: If your roof is too high for you to securely remove snow from the ground, consider hiring a professional snow removal service. They have the tools and skills required to properly remove snow from your roof.
How Can I Protect My Roof During The Winter Months?
The best approach to protect your roof from the weather is to keep it in good condition in the first place. Prevention is essential when it comes to safeguarding your roof from ice and snow damage. This entails getting ready before the snowflakes begin to fall.
- Before it snows, have your roof inspected. Check for any weak points and leaks with your contractor.
- After a large snowfall, have your roof inspected for damage.
- Check that your vents, chimneys, and skylights are properly installed. Any gaps in your roof have the potential to cause leaks.
- To prevent leaks, use a high-quality waterproof underlayment between the shingles and the decking.
Contact All Weather Exteriors Today!
When it comes to winter home maintenance activities, removing snow from your roof is one of the most dreaded and dangerous. Letting roofing professionals to take care of your roof will guarantee that it lasts a long time and will keep you safe. All Weather Exteriors provides roofing installation and repair, whether due to a large storm or simply normal wear and tear.
If you need assistance dealing with snow on your roof, use these helpful snow removal tips and give us a call at 204.510.2959. All Weather Exteriors’ team of trained Winnipeg roofers can help keep you, your family, and your house safe this winter.
With over a decade of experience and financing possibilities for our customers, you can be assured that your home and roof are in good hands.
Our expert team provides quality materials and great customer service. Contact us today for an estimate!