What Can I Use to Remove Snow From Rooftops?

Angled Roof

• It is common for residential homes to have angled roofs in areas where there is regular snowfall. These are roofs that meet at a peak and have an upside-down "V" shape to them. In some snow regions, homes have very steep pitches that resist snow accumulation. To remove snow from pitched roofs that arent steep, use what is called a roof rake. A roof rake is a plastic shovel at the end of a telescoping arm. Many roof rakes come with extensions that allow them to reach to the peak of a standard roof. Remember that you do not need to remove all of the snow. Getting half of the snow off your roof will reduce the pressure from the weight and prevent ice buildup in your gutters.

Flat Roof

• Getting snow off a flat roof can be dangerous. The best way to get the snow off a flat roof is to use a standard plastic snow shovel and remove the snow manually. Be very careful when walking on a snow-covered flat roof, as there may be a layer of ice under the snow that will cause you to slip. Do not allow more than 6 to 8 inches of snow to accumulate on a flat roof. If you let too much snow pile up on a flat roof, the roof may not be able to support your weight when you go up to shovel the snow.

Heating Coils

• Heating coils are black insulated cables that you can plug into a standard outlet to generate heat. Place heating coils in your gutters to prevent snow and ice from building up and along your roof to melt the snow as it falls. Heating coils require a significant amount of electricity to run and can be expensive. But when used during a snowfall, they prevent snow from piling up on your roof.

Warm Water

• Warm water poured on snow will melt the snow from your roof and allow it to drain off your roof through your gutters. Applying warm water is safest from dormer windows that overlook your roof or while standing on a secured ladder. Do not walk on your roof when using warm water as the water and snow combined will leave a thin layer of ice that can make walking dangerous.