What is the difference between rock salt and ice melt?

• <div><p>Both rock salt and ice melt are naturally occurring salts. Rock salt is sodium chloride, which is the same as table salt. Ice melt products can be made from a combination of salts like magnesium chloride and calcium chloride or can be those salts alone.</p><p>Rock salt comes in large crystals, so it helps provide traction on icy surfaces, whereas ice melt products need to be mixed with sand to provide traction. Ice melt products work at lower temperatures than rock salt, so they might be a better choice if you have a harsh winter climate.</p></div>

Do heated roof cables prevent ice damming?

• <div><p>Yes, and they do it exceptionally well. Heated roof cables have two purposes: melting snow and preventing ice buildup. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-causes-ice-dams.htm">Ice damming</a> <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-prevent-ice-dams.htm">happens when ice forms on the roof</a> (usually where the roof meets the gutter) and melts stubbornly slowly, causing moisture to enter the roof itself and, therefore, the home. </p></div>

How do I thaw frozen gutters?

• <div><p>If you do end up with frozen gutters, it's important to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-can-i-thaw-frozen-gutter-or-downspout.htm">thaw them correctly</a>. Thawing your gutters slowly is far safer than trying to break apart the ice. Once you get through the ice, bring in a gutter professional to check out the effectiveness of your heated system.</p></div>

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Q: How do you start a snowblower after sitting?

• <div><p>Before firing up your snowblower, ensure that essential switches are in the correct starting position. Take a moment to double-check the throttle, fuel shut-off, and choke, ensuring they're firmly set to the &quot;on&quot; position. Precision in verifying each switch's alignment is crucial, so don't rush through this critical step.</p></div>

Q: Is there a minimum amount of snow required to use a snowblower?

• <div><p>There is no hard and fast rule about using a snowblower on a specific amount of inches, but most snow removal experts suggest using one on 2 or more inches of snow for best results. This will also depend on what type of surface you&rsquo;re working on and whether the snow is dry or wet. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Roof Ice And Snow Removal pros in Avella, PA

*The Angi rating for Roof Ice And Snow Removal companies in Avella, PA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Roof Ice And Snow Removal needs.

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Last update on November 18, 2025

Reviewed in November 2025
Chandler and his crew removed several hazardous trees from my property and did a great job. Showed up on time, got the work done in a timely manner. Highly recommended.
Usenicnik LLC
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Reviewed in June 2025
Work was done perfectly and on time. Replaced roof and gutters. No more leaks!
Home Genius Exteriors
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Reviewed in January 2023
Antonio was great to work with! Penn West arrived at the property in less than one hour from my call and repaired our roof the following morning. I would highly recommend them.
Penn West Roofing & Repair
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Reviewed in July 2022
Everybody was very efficient and amazing to deal with. The process was very quick without giving up quality of work. Took the time to clean up. Very satisfied from sales with Andy, to production with Lauren and Devan. Devan even went onto roof to remove our antenna from our chimney. I highly...
Home Genius Exteriors
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Reviewed in November 2020
Thaddeus called to set up appointment for quote. He wore a mask and removed his shoes when entering a house my husband and I flipped for sale. Within a week the technicians, Adama and Cam came to remove the mold in the attic. They were courteous and efficient. This is a top notch company and I...
Mold Medics
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Reviewed in November 2018
We had a leak that showed on second floor ceiling. The owner kept the appointment that was mutually convenient for him to examine the roof three stories above ground level to determine where the leak was coming from. He crawled into attic space and also examined the roof from the outside. He...
Knox's Construction
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Reviewed in July 2017
I had a refrigerator delivered by Best Buy yesterday and they were unable to connect the water line from the old frig to the new. It needed to have a new adapter compatible with the steel hoses. I needed a plumber. I called on July 3rd at 8:00 a.m. and explained my problem and that I was having...
CITY PLUMBING HEATING & AIR
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Reviewed in April 2016
It was a wonderful job. They actually climbed the tree (about 50 ft.) and cut off the upper branches so that they would not fall onto the garage roof. It was amazing. The care and skill that they have is beyond excellent. I would recommend them to anyone for any tree service.
Kruljac Tree Services
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Reviewed in July 2014
The painter arrived on time and with the supplies he needed to complete the job. He removed the the handrail and painted the stairwell, the upstairs hallway, and downstairs hallway. The color was the color we chose. His work was excellent and neat. He applied two coats.
Fresh Coat Painters of Cranberry Twp
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Reviewed in April 2013
Rick made some suggestions on the design which we agreed upon and while he was here suggested that we place the gutter drain under ground. ( Very happy for that!) I contacted Rick in late December about doing the job but all this time we were plagued with Snow, Rain, Sleet and every other kind...
Rick Page Quality Landscaping
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