Snow accumulating on your roof can cause leaks, structural damage, cave-ins, and ice dams. Fortunately, proper snow removal is easy with a roof rake and some preparation.
Stay on the Ground
Most homeowners are familiar with shoveling roofs from driveways and entryways, but it is easy to overlook that a home’s roof can also become a problem. Snow and ice that stays on a roof can cause leaks, ice damming, and roof collapse. When the weather forecast calls for more than just another winter storm, looking at the snow on your roof may be a good idea. If it’s time to start removing snow from your roof, do it quickly, as it can be hazardous if it begins to turn into ice. It’s a good idea to use the buddy system when attempting this chore, but, more importantly, stay on the ground whenever possible. Snow is heavy, and if you slip off the edge of your roof, it can be a life-threatening situation. Also, ice can damage and discolor shingles and kill vegetation on the roof.
Don’t Climb
While it may be tempting to skip the ladder and jump onto your roof with a snow rake, this can lead to broken shingles and other roofing problems. It is also a perilous proposition, especially for beginners and people with bad backs. Instead, if you have to get on your roof, wear boots with good traction and take small scoops of snow at a time. Also, remember to warm up before attempting any lifting by walking around and stretching your muscles.
If you must use a ladder, ensure it is secure and consider wearing a harness for extra safety. As with any ladder work, always stay clear of power lines and other overhead hazards. You should also remove any icicles that hang from the edge of your roof before they fall and injure someone. Icicles look pretty but are extremely dangerous and should be knocked loose with a long-handled broom or other tool.
Don’t Scrape
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that attempting to scrape the snow off their roofs can cause damage. Pushing a shovel against the shingles can loosen them, and leaving too much snow can lead to leaks. In addition, using sharp tools can conduct electricity and cause electrocution. A roof rake is the best way to remove snow from a roof. This tool is designed not to harm the shingles and allows the homeowner to stand on the ground instead of being forced to climb onto the roof. It’s easy to forget about your roof in winter, but it’s essential to do so to avoid costly water damage and potential roof collapse or ice damming. Shoveling your roof is a big job, but it’s also essential to keeping your home safe and healthy. Hiring a professional is best if you need more time to do the work yourself.
Remove Icicles
Long, glistening lines of icicles may look pretty, but they can damage and hurt people below. They can fall and break windows, smash cars and roofs, and cause injuries. Icicles typically form from a combination of issues, including lack of attic ventilation, improper roof insulation, and clogged gutters. When the heat from inside the home escapes through the roof, it melts snow and refreezes into ice drips that eventually hang over the roof’s edge and extend down the gutters in thick icicles. When icicles build up, they can significantly increase the weight of the gutters and the house’s eaves. It’s important to have them removed as soon as possible. If you can safely reach them, use a rubber mallet to hit the top edge of each icicle to break it free. This prevents you from falling off the ladder or injuring yourself as you remove them.
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