Preventing ice dams from forming is crucial to the overall health of your home’s roof. In order to do this, you need to make sure you aren’t neglecting your roof in regards to snow removal. The standard rule when it comes to roofs and snow is that removal should be completed after 6 inches. This will work to make sure that there is not an abundance of snow piling up on your roof, allowing you to avoid the stress of worrying about any further damage.
Snow Characteristics
In addition to paying attention to how much snow accumulates on your roof, it’s also very important to consider the weight of the snow as well. Some snow if lighter than other kinds and for that reasons, 6 inches of snowfall doesn’t always weigh the same. If it is a particularly wet and dense snowfall it may be smart to be safe rather than sorry and remove any snow present. If ignored, this problem can compound if there is another storm in the upcoming forecast. The weather is an important thing to keep in mind as the upcoming forecast can play a big role in helping you decide whether or not you should remove the snow from your roof. If the forecast calls for days of sunshine following the initial snowfall, then you may be able to get away without removing snow from your roof. Although, if there is going to be another storm shortly following the first then it is generally recommended that you look into how you can start removing the snow.
More often than not, a roof rake can be used to keep snow off your roof throughout the winter months as they are ideal to use on a variety of homes. Clearing the overhangs is essential in making sure that ice dams are prevented, and the weakest part of your roof is protected Sometimes, if your roof is too tall or a storm leaves behind too much snow to be removed by a rake, it is best to resort to shoveling as a way to clear the snow off of your roof. Shoveling can take care of accumulations of snow that are too heavy for a rake and is a great way to ensure that your roof in completely snow free.
Is your roof damaged from an Ice Dam? Have it replaced by Rhode Island Slate Roofing today!
Water damage that results from an ice dam building up within your roof can cause lasting damage to many other areas of the home including the walls, insulation and more. For this reason, it is crucial to replace any roof that has been damaged to avoid any more developing. Contact the team of experts at Rhode Island Slate Roofing for more information about us and our available services!