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A roof's ability to handle snow depends on its strength and the snow's weight, as wet snow is much heavier than dry, fluffy snow. While designs in snowy regions often allow for 35 to 50 pounds per square foot, a general guideline is that a typical roof can withstand about four feet of fresh snow, two feet of packed snow, or just one inch of ice. Factors like the roof's age, slope, and support structure also affect its capacity; newer, sloped roofs generally hold more weight than older, flat ones. Ice and ice dams add significant, dangerous weight. Because capacity varies, it is best to contact a professional roofing contractor or the original builder to determine the maximum snow load for your specific home.

Yes, shingles should overhang the drip edge, typically between 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch. An overhang shorter than 1/2-inch can allow wind-driven rain to get under the shingles and damage the roof deck or fascia. Conversely, an overhang longer than 3/4-inch increases the risk of shingles getting caught by strong winds, which can lead to roof uplift. Always check your local building code for exact overhang requirements in your area.

Architectural shingles and impact-resistant shingles aren’t mutually exclusive, which means some architectural shingles are impact-resistant shingles. Architectural shingles are thicker and more durable than standard 3-tab shingles, and they become even stronger when they also have high impact resistance and wind resistance ratings. The most durable shingles for areas with extreme weather are architectural or luxury shingles that have a Class-4 impact resistance and a Class-H wind resistance that can stand up to winds reaching 150 mph.

It’s possible to walk on a clay tile roof, but you run the risk of breaking or cracking the tiles if you’re not careful, so it’s best not to walk on it if you can avoid it. If you or a contractor needs roof access, be sure to distribute your weight evenly and step on the portions of tile that are also supported underneath, which depends on your tile design. Walking on any roofing material is inherently dangerous, so wear rubber-soled shoes and use safety equipment if you need to access your roof.