Removing Snow From Sloped Roofs

Homeowners living in areas that receive heavy snowfall know what an impact it can have on a roof. Flat roofs are especially hazardous, as they bear the entire weight of the snow. However, sloped roofs also hold snow when the amounts are measured in feet and not inches. When the amount of snow on your roof is more than three inches, you must remove it. Fortunately, there is a way to do so without having to walk on a slippery roof, but have a second person work with your for safety's sake.

Roof rake or extendable snow rake
Pantyhose
Snow melt chemicals

Instructions

- 1
  Stand on the ground a few feet away from the roof overhang. Place the blade of the snow rake three feet up from the edge of the roof, parallel to the gutters. Pull the snow down.
- 2
  Rake off the top layers of snow until two or three inches of snow remain on the shingles. Removing any more will ruin the shingles and cause an ice dam (see Step 5).
- 3
  Position the snow rake next to the space you just cleared. Repeat Steps 1 through 3 until the lowest section of the roof is cleared.
- 4
  Move the rake higher on the roof once the lowest three feet are cleared. Repeat Steps 1 through 3, taking care to remove all of the snow from the previously cleared row. Repeat until the entire roof is cleared.
- 5
  Treat ice dams that you encounter with snow-melting chemicals. Place the chemicals in the foot of the pantyhose after cutting them about six inches or more from the toe. Toss the nylon bag onto the roof, but behind the ice dam. Allow it to work the ice away.

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How to Remove Ice From the Roof & Gutter

Snow Removal