Protecting Your Thornton, CO Residential Roof
Replacement: How To Safely Remove Snow

The RIGHT Way To Rid Your Roof
Of Winter’s Heavy Weight

Living in the Denver Metro means we occasionally see a good bit of snow. So, when you invest in a residential roof replacement for your Thornton, CO home, you need to know how to protect it.

Anyone who lives in an area that receives snowfall is aware of the damage that snow can present, especially when it falls in large, heavy amounts. Shoveling snow can be time-consuming and heavy work. To prevent snow damage to your roof, it is recommended to remove the snow safely to avoid structural damage.

If you’re new to winter maintenance tasks or simply need a refresher, we have everything you need to know about doing this job safely. And as always, if you ever feel uncomfortable, never be afraid to call a professional.

What To Consider When Removing Snow
From Your Residential Roofing Materials

To prevent the collapse of your roof, which often results in extensive interior water damage, including rotting ceilings and warping roofs, removing snow is essential.

Consider the snow load, the exposure the roof has to the sun, and the slope of the roof.
Take into consideration the roofing material used metal roofs tend to shed snow and ice better, whereas shingled roofs tend to hold the snow.

The weight of the snow matters more than how much snow has accumulated on your roof. If you have a small, one-story bungalow where the roof is just off the ground, taking matters into one’s own hands may be safe.

Remove whatever snow you can reach with your roof rake while standing on the ground, and focus on the overhangs to prevent ice dams from forming.

Use plastic roof rakes made with small wheels and a bumper to keep from damaging the surface or asphalt shingles of your rooftop. Metal rakes may often add to any existing roof damage.

How To Remove Snow From Your Residential
Roofing Materials Safely And Properly

There are a few things to consider before you remove snow from your roof. Be aware of all potential dangers, including the structure of the roof and personal damage such as sliding off the roof or ladder, overexertion, or injury from falling snow.

The goal of removing snow is to relieve the excessive load of weight on your roof, not to remove all of the snow.

Use A Spotter

Never clear snow from your roof alone. Be sure to include a spotter to see where you will be throwing snow. Be aware that hard clumps of snow or ice being thrown from the roof could cause damage to people and objects below.

You’ll need to anticipate where the snow and ice will fall as you pull it off your roof — you won’t want to pull a load of heavy, wet snow down on top of yourself or any helpers.

Remove Small Amounts At A Time

Work from the overhangs and up, removing small amounts of snow at a time. Do not remove too much snow at once the snow may increase in weight, making it difficult to clear. Take your roof rake and, while standing at a safe distance, begin pulling the snow from your roof slowly.

Rake Gently And After Storms

Leaving a thin coat of snow on your roof can help reduce further damage to it. If your home has shingles, this will reduce the need to replace many of them when spring arrives.

Rake your roof after we receive 6 inches or so of snowfall. Raking often reduces the risk of ice dams forming.

What’s an ice dam? It’s a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow (water) from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into your home and cause damage to the walls, ceilings, and insulation.

Check The Gutters

Don’t forget to check your downspouts and gutters. Break apart the chunks that may have formed to help the melting snow drain easily from your roof.

Prevent ice from accumulating in your gutters by ensuring your gutters are positioned to face downward. Clean your gutters in the fall.

Avoid Dangerous Tools

Stay away from ice picks, blow torches, and axes, which can prove to be dangerous to you and your roof. Be sure to use a non-salt chemical deicer to remove ice from the edge of your roof. Stay clear of shovels, hatchets, hammers, or other heavy equipment. Chopping and cutting could cause more harm and damage to the roof.

Any of these items could lead to extensive damage requiring a complete residential roof replacement. So, if you’re unsure about the correct process, it’s always best to call for help.

Need Help? Call A Professional Roofing Contractor

Do not attempt to take matters into your own hands by climbing up onto your roof. Keep your ladder in the garage. Test the snow on your roof prior to removing any snow. If the snow is too heavy to rake, be sure to call a professional at Columbine Roofing to remove it safely, minimizing damage to your roof and injury to yourself.