Tips to Safely Remove Snow from a Roof for 2022

Before you remove snow from a roof, consider the fall hazards and arrange professional help if the work cannot be done safely from the ground. Even though most building codes require that residential roofs support the most significant snowfalls in your area, there is still a risk of roof damage. The main reasons to clear the snow from roofs are to prevent ice dams (which can lead to property damage caused by leaks) and cave-ins. Check out these tips that can help you if you decide to remove snow from a roof.

Follow These Guidelines To Safely and Effectively Remove Snow From a roof

• Arrange a professional assessment when snow or ice accumulation raises concern. Snow depth alone does not determine whether a roof is safe.
• Be sure there are at least 2 inches of snow on the roof to avoid significant damage to the roof covering and additional damage.
• If you live in a single-story home, stay on the ground and use a rake with a telescopic handle. For taller homes, use the rake to clear the overhangs.
• Exercise extreme caution to not hit any overhead power lines when raking the roof.
• If using a rake is inefficient, the snow needs to be shoveled by someone on the roof. However, don’t try to tackle this dangerous job by yourself. Hiring a licensed contractor is the safest way to go.
• If you’re determined to shovel the snow yourself, make sure your ladder is stable and use a safety harness on the roof. For sloped roofs, start shoveling at the ridge and move toward the eaves.
• Never use mechanical equipment specialized in snow removal. Using these tools increases the risk of damaging your roof.
• Don’t put salt or salt products on the roof. Although salt is a natural enemy to ice and snow, it can also discolor shingles and kill the vegetation the melted snow falls upon.
• Dispose of the snow in designated areas on the ground, away from walkways. Don’t dump the snow near building exits, ventilation exits or drain downspouts.

Contact PuroClean of Princeton For Professional Property Damage Restoration Services

If your home or business is damaged, whether it be from snow, wind, rain, etc. PuroClean is here to help bring it back to its pre-loss condition. Our technicians are trained with the most modern restoration techniques and equipment and are standing by 24/7 to help when you need it most. Contact PuroClean of Princeton at (609) 436-5959.

Restoration Support from PuroClean of Princeton

If your property has been affected, explore our professional restoration services or contact PuroClean of Princeton at (609) 436-5959 to discuss the damage and next steps. For general guidance, see the IICRC’s professional cleaning and restoration standards.

Plan Before You Remove Snow from a Roof

Share the property address, building type, roof access restrictions, and any known leak history with the contractor. Describe where snow or ice has accumulated and whether you have noticed new ceiling stains or water entering the building. Photos taken from a safe location can help explain the situation. Keep people clear of the area below the work, and discuss how the contractor will protect entrances and walkways.

If you cannot remove snow from a roof safely, avoid climbing onto it or improvising with ladders and unsuitable tools. Ask an experienced contractor about the appropriate equipment and precautions for the building. OSHA identifies falls as a major hazard during rooftop snow removal; its roof snow-removal safety guidance explains why planning matters. If meltwater has already entered your home, discuss drying and affected materials with a restoration professional rather than assuming the damage will disappear when the weather changes.