How to Get Rid of Snow on a Second Floor Roof

After a heavy snowfall, homeowners should consider removing the snow cover from their roofs. Poor insulation or a sudden rise in temperature may melt the snow. A subsequent drop in temperature will form a heavy ice layer on the roof. The ice may prevent drainage, damage the shingles, or weigh down, warp or collapse the roof. Roof work is dangerous. If you cannot implement the proper precautions, contact your contractor to handle the job for you.

Plastic shovel
Extension ladder
Safety harness
Safety rope

Instructions

- 1
  Extend an extension ladder so that it is 3 feet above the edge of the roof. Lean the ladder against the roof at an access point that does not block any points of egress. Make sure that it stands on firm, flat ice-free ground.
- 2
  Climb up the ladder and onto the roof. Have a partner hold the ladder steady.
- 3
  Shovel the snow off of the roof with a plastic shovel. Start at the top of the roof (or center of a flat roof) and shovel outward toward the eaves to scoop all of the snow off onto the ground. Do not apply heavy pressure as you shovel. You may damage the shingles. Do not scrape the bottom layer of snow off of the shingles. You may disturb their waterproof coating.
- 4
  Climb down the ladder. Have your partner hold the ladder as you climb down. Loosen the safety rope's slack as you climb.

Can You Close the Flue When a Gas Fireplace Is Off?

How to Add Chemicals to a Well for High Iron

General Home Safety