Get matched with top roof ice and snow removal pros in Oakdale, CA

Roof raking helps clear snowfall from your roof and, in turn, you hope that this prevents ice dams. But can roof raking actually cause them? Generally, no, it cannot. But you should note that while, in some cases, you might successfully prevent ice dams from forming near the edge of your roof by keeping it cleared with a roof rake, they could still form higher up on the roof, where you are unable to reach. This may leave you wondering: Does roof raking prevent ice dams? While it is not a 100% guaranteed way to prevent them, it does help.

It can be dangerous to remove icicles from your roof, so the best option is to treat the underlying issue instead, usually by ensuring proper insulation in your home. If you’re concerned about immediate damage, you can hire a professional to remove the icicles and the snow accumulation on your home to prevent the issue from recurring. Just make sure you use a long-term solution, too, like addressing insulation problems or installing roof heating coils on your roof.

Generally, snow removal from a roof should occur once over six inches of snow accumulates, especially if you notice that ice dams have formed. Without ice dams, you can let the snow accumulation hit 12 inches before removing it. However, the amount of snow that is too much for your roof also depends on the sturdiness of your roof and the compactness of the snow. If your roof needs maintenance or has structural issues, it’s best not to let the snow accumulate too much for fear of collapsing.

If not removed, ice dams can damage your gutters, roof, and home’s interior. The weight of these heavy ice formations can break gutters and downspouts. Water intrusion can happen underneath ice dams when there’s no way for melting snow to drain off the roof, and roof sheathing, walls, ceilings, and attic spaces can suffer water damage.