Get matched with top roof ice and snow removal pros in Utqiagvik, AK

It is a bad idea to try to walk on a roof with snow on it. In fact, you should stay off your roof all year long, even when it is dry and sunny outside. There are too many things that can go wrong, and one misstep can cause serious injury or even death.

Rather, if you need to get something done on your roof, call in a pro. They have the right experience and know-how to get things done safely on a snowy roof, including snow removal.

How much snow can a roof hold? The answer could help you to avoid roof collapse—a worst-case scenario, of course. For most roofs, you can expect it to withstand four feet of fresh snow, two feet of packed snow, or two to three feet of a mix of old and new snow. However, your roof will only be able to handle one inch of ice. The actual weight capacity of your roof may vary, so check with whoever built it for exact details.

Be careful when choosing a product to help you remove ice from your wood deck. Never use sand, gravel, or salt, since these items can damage and scratch the wood. Instead, look for chemical de-icers that are marked as safe for wood decks or use hot water to melt snow and ice.

In most cases, it’s a good idea to leave the icicles on your roof and wait for the warmer weather to melt them away naturally. You should only remove icicles if you believe they’re heavy enough to cause damage to your home or anyone who enters it.