As the winter season grips your local area, homeowners face the annual task of dealing with snow and ice accumulation on their roofs. This natural occurrence, although visually pleasing, poses significant risks to the structural integrity of homes and the safety of residents. Understanding the nuances of safely removing snow and ice from your roof is not just useful—it’s essential. Scartelli Roofing and Exteriors talks about a few effective methods to ensure your home remains both safe and dry throughout the colder months.
Understanding the Weight of Snow on Your Roof
Snow’s beauty can be deceiving, as its weight causes a significant strain on your roof. Depending on its moisture content, snow weight varies, with wet snow being considerably heavier than its fluffy counterpart. For homes in areas where varying types of snowfall are common, homeowners should be vigilant. A general rule of thumb is that accumulation exceeding three feet of fluffy snow or two feet of wet snow necessitates removal to prevent damage.
Safe Snow Removal Practices
The priority should always be safety when removing snow from your roof. Opting to stay on the ground is a key precaution; a slip from the roof could turn a peaceful snow day into an emergency. Utilizing a roof rake is one of the most effective and safe methods for homeowners. These tools are designed to allow you to clear snow while remaining firmly on the ground, thereby minimizing the risk of damage to both yourself and your roof’s shingles.
However, if your home’s architecture makes it challenging to remove snow safely from the ground, professional help is the next best option. Roofing professionals are equipped with the necessary tools and expertise to remove snow without risking damage to your home or themselves.
The Ice Dam Conundrum
Many homeowners are all too familiar with the ice dam phenomenon. These occur when melted snow refreezes at the edge of your roof, preventing proper drainage and potentially causing water to seep underneath shingles and into your home. Preventing ice dams begins with adequate attic insulation and ventilation, ensuring the temperature of the roof remains consistent with the outdoors.
If ice dams form, the use of calcium magnesium acetate or other non-corrosive de-icing agents can help mitigate the issue without causing damage to your roof or the environment below. Furthermore, installing heated deicing cables can offer a proactive approach to preventing ice dam formation.
When to Call in the Professionals
While many aspects of snow and ice removal can be handled by homeowners, certain situations call for professional intervention. Steep, high roofs, or the presence of sizable ice dams, might render DIY removal unsafe or ineffective. Our local specialists possess the necessary experience and equipment to address these challenges efficiently, safeguarding your home against the risks posed by heavy snow and ice accumulation.
We’re Just a Call Away
The winter months bring about a necessary maintenance ritual for homes in Bethlehem, PA. While it’s important to maintain your home, prioritizing your safety by utilizing the right tools and, when necessary, professional services, is crucial. Contact Scartelli Roofing and Exteriors at (484) 635-7052 to schedule a consultation. You can also reach us online to get started. Stay warm and safe this winter season!