We’ve already had a few snowstorms this year, and NH roofers have been getting the same question from homeowners: Should you clear the snow off your roof? You don’t want heavy, wet snow to lead to leaks or ice dams, but you also don’t want to accidentally damage the roof getting the snow off. So, what do you do? Do you leave the snow there and hope for the best, or do what you can to get it off? Luckily, you don’t have to guess, because our team of NH roofers at Derek Cook’s Roofing Specialists has the answers you need.
Are you worried about snow accumulating on your roof this winter? Here’s what NH roofers have to say about clearing snow off your roof.
Safety First
First and foremost, you don’t want to put yourself at risk. Climbing on your roof is always dangerous, especially when it’s slippery with ice and snow. If your roof has a steep slope—as most homes in NH do—you should never climb up there unless you’re a certified technician. If you think you need to remove some snow from your roof, stay on the ground or hire a professional roofing contractor to take care of it for you.
When to Clear
There are benefits to clearing snow off the roof, including removing weight from your home’s structure and preventing ice dams. However, some snow accumulations aren’t a cause for concern. Light, fluffy snow doesn’t create strain on your structure, and even wetter snow isn’t an issue if it’s only a few inches. When heavy snow accumulates more than six inches, that’s when you should start thinking about clearing the snow from the roof. Large quantities of snow sliding off your roof can also damage your home. Removing at least some of the snow is advisable when the buildup approaches a foot deep.
How to Clear
In addition to your personal safety, you also want to consider the protection of your roof. You should only use a roof rake tool designed for removing snow to avoid damage. If you have an asphalt shingle roof, avoid scraping the surface of the roof directly. You don’t want to take the granules off your shingles along with the snow. It’s important to note that you don’t have to clear all the snow from the roof. Focus on the three to four feet closest to the edge to clear snow from the eaves and prevent ice dams from forming.
Protect Your Home This Winter with Professional NH Roofers
When in doubt, call the professionals! Our team at Derek Cook’s Roofing Specialists is here to help you determine the best course of action to protect your home. Contact our team today for snow removal, repairs, and all our services.
