Residing in the Midwest, the winter has always been unpredictable. Some years we barely get any snow during the season and other times we get what seems like 10 feet of snow. That’s why it is important to know how much snow is too much for your roof. Below are some helpful tips and tricks to deal with snow on your roof.
Know the warning signs.
Although you are able to observe the amount of snow on your roof from the curb, the best place to find warning signs from too much snow is inside your home. We recommend checking out the attic first to see if any damage has developed. You will want to check for cracks or bending in the rafters. If you find damage and are certain it is from the snow and not termites or other wood-eating bugs, you will want to contact a licensed engineer to evaluate the problem.
You should also keep an eye on the top floor towards the middle of your home. Check for new cracks appearing in your drywall or plaster surrounding the interior door frames. If you notice the doors having trouble shutting unexpectedly, it might be because your home is shifting due to structural issues. If you are worried and find it necessary, contact a professional to help you out. For more winter hacks for your home check out our recent blog post.
How much snow can your roof actually hold?
A new house can typically hold around 100 pounds per square foot on the roof. Older homes, however, can only handle about 45 pounds per square foot. Unfortunately, that means a roof can collapse with as little as 18 inches of snow. This mainly occurs when the snow is concentrated in one area of the roof.
How to safely get the snow off your roof.
Some experts recommend not messing with removing the snow from your roof because the home is built to the standards of local building codes. Be cautious of any ice build-up when climbing onto your roof. If you are able to hire a professional to do this, that is the safest and best option because a professional will have the right equipment to handle the work.
If you have a single-story home, you may be able to access the roof with a rake while keeping your feet on the ground. Roof rakes are available to buy at most home stores and are easy to store when you’re not using them. However, don’t try removing all of the snow. This could destroy the roofing material underneath.
Don’t let the snow on your roof scare you, but make sure you are keeping an eye on it as more snow falls. If you find yourself needing assistance, please feel free to reach out to the experts at Royalty Roofing. We are here to help you!
