DIY: Shoveling a Roof

Clear a level path around the house where you can stand or place a ladder safely, and pack the snow down so you don't fall into any holes while you work. A ladder that extends 3 feet higher than the roof is the appropriate size for this job. Place the ladder against the gutter or slope of the roof. Have a partner hold the ladder steady and alert you to any dangerous situations.

Climb the ladder and begin to work from the bottom of the roof. Reach up with the shovel and scoop the the snow toward you and off of the roof. Allow a thin coating of snow to remain on the roof that is thick enough to prevent damage from the shovel to shingles, tiles or nails. Never run the shovel upward over the roof; this can also damage shingles, tiles and nails. Move the ladder around the house, as needed, to clear the entire bottom portion of the roof.

Climb onto the roof when you've completed the roof's bottom portion. Shovel the rest of the snow downward and off of the roof. Check around the roof's valleys or anywhere two roof pitches come together; accumulations can be highest there. Make sure the roof is clear of snow, except for the 1-inch protective coating. When you are finished, carefully climb back down the ladder.