Snow may be beautiful as it sits on your roof, but all that weight and moisture can be destructive. You can help your roof survive the winter without any repairs from a roofer by knowing how to protect it after each major storm. Below are a few tips for keeping your roof safe from winter weather.

Roofer Guide to Protecting Roofs From Snow & Ice

1. Use a Snow Rake

A snow rake is a long-handled tool that can safely remove snow buildup from your roof. Stand on the ground and use the rake to pull off the top layer of snow around the edge of the roof. This removes most of the weight while leaving behind a small layer that can safely melt away in the sun. Take care not to push the snow into your gutters or downspouts.

2. Maintain a Cold Attic

If your attic insulation is in good condition, it will keep the space just warm enough to melt the snow on your roof. Do not actively heat your attic, as too much warmth will result in a quick melt after the storm. This leads to the formation of icicles and ice dams as the snow melts, runs off the roof and freezes when it reaches the edge.

3. Remove Ice Dams

Ice dams can wreak havoc on your roofing systems: they’ll clog up your gutters and result in any other snow runoff pouring over the sides of the gutter and down your siding. The weight of the dam can rip the gutters out of their brackets. Don’t try to chip it away yourself as this can result in other damage as well. Instead, hire a roofer to remove the ice dams safely.

The team of roofers at Go to Guys Exterior will keep your home in top condition year-round. They offer maintenance to prepare your roof for winter in the Greater Cincinnati area, and are available for storm damage roof repair if your home experiences issues caused by snow, ice, sleet, or hail. Contact them online or at (937) 673-6760 to request an estimate.