Snow removal can be exhausting: start too early, and you’re looking at repeat trips outside throughout the storm, start too late and several inches of snow can be frozen over. Did you know that besides the driveway, porch, and deck, you had another place to consider snow removal? When enough snow piles up on your roof, you are at risk for forming ice dams, which can damage your roof, attic, and gutters. Learn when it’s time to remove snow from your roof and how to do it!
Weight is a Major Factor
Regardless of how fluffy it appears, snow brings added weight to your roof. Depending on how wet the snow is, a small amount can have just as much of an impact as large quantities. A rule of thumb to follow is that one cubic foot of snow can weigh up to five pounds. While your roof is engineered to withstand additional weight, too much pressure can cause the roof to collapse, jeopardizing the structural integrity of your home.
You May Be Able to Tell By Your Doors
If you’re trying to figure out if your roof is struggling with the added weight of snow, check how your interior doors are functioning. If your doors, especially on the upper level of your home, may make additional noise when opening and closing when the roof is being weighted down. The extra moisture may also cause warping to your door frames or on drywall if your roof is struggling.
Ice Dams
One of the biggest problems that can occur if you leave snow on your roof is the formation of ice dams. As heavy snow is weighed down on your roof, the layer closest to the heat emitting from your roof will melt and slide down the angle of your roof, refreezing when it is exposed to the frigid air again. The ice can weigh down and refreeze over your gutters, causing problems with diverting water and leading to leaks in your home and foundation.
Rooftop Snow Removal in Uxbridge, Framingham & Worcester, MA
If you are in need of rooftop snow removal, contact Nor’easter Roofing today! We will send a team to your home and safely remove the snow from your roof, checking the structural integrity while we shovel. Nor’Easter Roofing can be reached by calling 508-667-3278 or by filling out our online contact form.