As winter passes by, and the snow builds up on rooftops across the country (especially in Minnesota), many homeowners are tasked with the chore of dealing with snow and ice removal around their home.
You clear it from your driveway and sidewalk, you dig out your mailbox, but what do you do about the snow and ice on your roof? Leave it, remove it? And what happens when it builds up faster than it can melt away?
All Good Questions
Minnesota roofing experts will tell you that snow and ice removal IS a necessary chore, especially when snow piles up, melts and then refreezes overnight. The melting and refreezing of snow can leave you with ice dams on your roof. Once ice dams start to build up they are difficult to clear and if left alone they can cause damage to your roof and gutters. When ice dams are followed by more snow, this can also place an undue amount of pressure on the roof of your house.
Will My Roof Collapse?
While there is no guarantee, roof collapses due to snow are very rare. If your roof and building structure are up to code, they should be able to withstand the added weight that snow and ice place on it during the winter. However, this doesn’t mean that heavy snow and ice can’t do damage to other areas of your home.
The Effects of Snow and Ice Buildup
The most noticeable signs that too much pressure is being placed on your roof are visible cracks in your drywall. When too much weight is on your roof, it can lead to settling that can cause cracks in your ceiling, walls and window and door frames.
Excessive snow and ice buildup on the roof of your home can also lead to:
- Damage to shingles or flashing
- Leaks
- Gutter damage
- Sticking doors and windows
- Roof sagging
- Cracks in exterior masonry or walls
- Staining on your roof and in your attic
- Mold and mildew growth
Stay Ahead of the Snow. Schedule Your Cleaning Today
Snow and ice removal can be a dangerous process, so it’s best to leave it to a professional team. To schedule your snow and ice removal this winter, contact Schmidt Roofing right away.
