How to Remove Dangerous Icicles From a Roof

Icicles can form on the eaves, gutters and other hanging edges of a home when precipitation, such as rain or snow, freezes before it drips to the ground. Although people might think that icicles give a home a seasonal look, they can actually be dangerous. Icicles often have sharp tips or can be heavy and end up hurting someone if they fall. Heavy icicle buildup also can cause damage to a home's roof or gutters. Safely remove icicles as soon as you see them forming to guard against any accidents.

Ladder
Gloves
Ice pick
Spade

Instructions

- 1
  Place a ladder against the side of your home, making sure that it is tall enough so that you can not only reach the icicles, but can see the gutters or roof. Do not place the ladder against the gutters, as they can become weakened by icicles or other elements over time and might not be stable.
- 2
  Put on heavy-duty gloves so that your hands are protected when you handle the icicles. Use an ice pick to chip away at the icicles. Pull off the icicles and the rest of the accumulated ice.
- 3
  Use a small spade or your hands to remove any other debris that is clogging the gutters. This could be leaves, pine straw, twigs or any other type of vegetation. The vegetation can help icicles grow as they impede the water from running out of the gutters.

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