Get matched with top chimney inspectors in Austin, UT

You should avoid walking on a slate roof. Though the material is highly durable, it can crack under the pressure of your feet, and the surface of the slate tiles can become extremely slippery when they get wet. Walking on a slate roof is, therefore, more dangerous than walking on something like asphalt shingles, both in terms of personal injury and property damage. If you do have to work on your slate roof, hire a pro. Most contractors use special equipment to avoid putting pressure on slate tiles.

EPDM roofing has exceptional waterproof capabilities, so water pooling on an EPDM roof typically isn't an issue in terms of leaking. However, water should not sit on the roof for more than 48 hours, as it can become a significant problem that requires immediate attention. To reduce the risk of damage, any EPDM roof should have a proper drainage system. If you notice ongoing issues with water pooling, you should call a roofing professional to check for underlying problems like a clogged roof drain or structural shifting.

Regular cleaning, promptly repairing minor issues, ensuring proper drainage, and using rust-resistant coatings help prevent recurring damage.

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.