When snow piles up on your roof, the goal is not to remove every single flake. The goal is simply to reduce the buildup safely so your roof can drain properly and avoid ice problems.
In this guide, we will walk through simple and safe methods you can use and when it is best to call a pro.
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Key Takeaways:
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If you ask homeowners what tool they keep in the garage during winter, a lot of them will say the same thing.
A roof rake:
A roof rake has a long handle that lets you pull snow off the lower part of your roof while standing safely on the ground.
This is one of the safe ways to remove snow from a metal roof because you never have to climb up onto the roof.
A few tips when using one:
You do not have to clear the whole roof. Just opening up the lower section often helps prevent ice buildup.
When you see a thick layer of snow sitting up there, it is tempting to try and pull it all down in one go.
But that can create a different problem.
Large piles of snow can fall quickly and damage gutters or land hard near walkways.
Instead, remove snow a little at a time. Take a few passes with the roof rake and then step back.
Even small amounts of snow removal can reduce weight and help melting snow drain properly.
Metal roofs are famous for one thing during winter.
Snow slides:
Once the sun comes out or temperatures rise even a little, large sheets of snow can suddenly slide off the roof.
That is great for preventing buildup, but it can be dangerous if someone is standing underneath.
Before you start removing snow, take a minute to look up and check where the heavy areas are.
Keep kids, pets, and neighbors away from the area while you work.
Some homeowners install snow guards on metal roofs to slow down sliding snow and make it safer around entryways and sidewalks.
Not every snow tool belongs on a roof.
Metal shovels, ice picks, and sharp tools can scratch the protective coating on metal roofing panels.
That coating is important because it protects the roof from rust and weather damage.
Stick with tools designed for roofs, such as:
Using the right tools helps keep your roof in good shape for years.
Sometimes the issue is not the snow sitting on the roof.
It is the snow blocking where the water needs to go.
When gutters and downspouts fill with ice and snow, melting water has nowhere to drain.
If it is safe to reach from the ground, clearing snow around your gutters and roof edges can help prevent water backup.
This small step can make a big difference in preventing winter roof leaks.
This one is simple but important.
Do not walk on a snow covered metal roof.
Metal roofing becomes extremely slippery during winter. Even experienced roofers use special equipment and safety gear when working on icy roofs.
Trying to climb up there yourself can lead to serious injuries.
If snow removal requires climbing onto the roof, it is usually best to call snow removal contractors in Oneida.
Sometimes snow removal is better left to the pros.
If you notice extremely heavy snow buildup or thick ice layers forming, it may be time to bring in professionals.
Here are a few situations where calling experts makes sense:
A professional snow removal company knows the safe ways to remove snow from a metal roof. They have the equipment and training to remove snow safely without damaging your roof.
There are many roofing contractors in Central New York but only few know how to handle snow removal.
And Campany Roofing is one of them! We are highly trained and experienced in dealing with winter roofing challenges.
We provide:
Get in touch with us today to schedule your service!