Tips for Removing Snow From Your Roof

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

Don't forget about the snow on your roof!

Homeowners in Michigan take pains to clear off walkways and driveways during the winter.  When your focus is the snow on the ground it is easy to forget about the snow on your rooftop.  The combination of freshly fallen snow with the melting and refreezing of snow can place stress on the roof of your property.  If more than a foot of heavy, wet snow and ice have accumulated on your roof, you should remove it.

The following are tips on how to safely handle the rooftop snow removal process:

• Never do it alone - hire a professional or get help from a neighbor/friend/relative
• For pitched roofs, use a snow rake which you can find at hardware stores
• Start removing snow from the edge and then work your way into the roof
• Shave the snow down to two or three inches instead of trying to scrap the roof clean.  Doing so will let you avoid damaging your shingles or any other roof covering
• Always remember that metal tools will conduct electricity when touching a power line and they can damage your roof
• Shovel the snow from flat roofs and throw it over the side, away from the building
• Keep gutters and drains clean and free of ice and snow

SERVPRO of Muskegon is Here to Help if you experience any water damage from winter issues, (231) 733-7601