When it comes to keeping snow off of your driveway, there’s a lot you can do — salt it the night before, shovel, or park your cars on it. But what are you supposed to do about your roof? While sure, you’re not walking on your roof in the winter, it’s still important that you keep snow build-up to a minimum.

How Much Snow is ‘Too Much?’

Two years ago, Boston suffered an unprecedented 44 roof collapses in just two days, all due to snow. Though a few factors come into play (like your roof’s slope, construction, age, and exposure to wind), most roofs can withstand about 20 feet of snow per square inch. Traditionally, one foot of light, powdery snow will weigh around three pounds per square foot, while one foot of icy snow will weigh closer to 10 pounds.

Protecting Your Roof

With FEMA suggesting that you never walk on top of your roof, especially when it’s snowing, what’s a homeowner to do? The best way to protect your home is to be proactive.

1. Look for signs of a distressed roof. Loose shingles, cracking walls, leaks, and jammed doors are all signs of an overstressed roof. Keep a small problem from becoming a big one by having your roof repaired or replaced before the first snowfall.
2. Calculate how much snow is on your roof. When snow does come, it’s important to keep track of how much is on your roof. The average roof can support around four feet of lightly packed, fresh snow.
3. Remove excess snow and ice. If you notice snow is starting to reach three feet or more, you should start thinking of ways to remove it. Safely remove snow from the ground with a snow rake or call the professionals at JM Roofing and Siding and we’ll do it for you!

 

Our Connecticut-based roofing and siding company can inspect your roof before the first snowfall and ensure your family’s safety. We are also happy to now offer snow removal services! To learn about prices and availability, give us a call at (203) 299-0716 or request a free estimate online!