Get matched with top snow removal pros in Troy, NC

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.

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.

Yes, but it works best with lightweight snowblowers, the single-stage models or electric versions. Also, you need to have a rubberized intake edge on the ground and preferably rubberized auger paddles, not a metal version. Otherwise you may chip or damage the surface as you work. When it doubt, let the snow lie.

You can also use a snow blower on leveled gravel, but only if you carefully adjust the intake height so it doesn’t kick up the gravel and turn it into flying missiles.

Removing snow from your roof can help prevent ice dams, but the best thing to do is address insulation issues in your attic. If you do decide to remove the snow manually, you should always use a roof rake rather than a shovel. You shouldn’t climb your snowy roof in any circumstance, and roof rake allows you to remove the snow from the ground or a ladder. For the best results, remove snow as soon as possible after it falls.