Having snow covering your roof provides your home with some insulation from cold air, but it isn’t always good to leave it up there.

Snow can end up causing problems with your roof at times, resulting in the need for snow removal. Find out when you should get rid of snow from your roof and what kinds of issues it can cause.

When to Remove Snow From Your Roof

A little bit of snow on your roof generally won’t cause any problems. When you start getting 6 inches or more of snow building up, it’s a good idea to remove it. The heavy weight of large snow accumulations can put your roof at risk of having severe structural damage. You should also remove snow from your roof when it blocks your ventilation systems since this can lead to ice dams.

Other Problems with Snow on a Roof

Ice dams are the other main problem with snow to worry about. These dams form when snow at the ridge of your roof begins to melt on a sunny day or when your ventilation systems are covered. The heat which normally escapes through the blocked vents stays and warms your attic up enough to cause snow to melt quickly. As the melting snow drips toward your roof eaves and gutters, which are typically still frozen, it freezes again causing dams to form. As it melts, this moisture seeps into your home’s interior and causes serious water damage.

DIY vs. Professional Roof Snow Removal

Homeowners can remove snow on their own using a roof rake. However, this may not be enough to get all the snow off your roof. Professional roofers have the right equipment and experience to do thorough snow removal from rooftops, helping protect your home from structural damage and ice dams. Having professional snow removal also ensures vents are uncovered so snow won’t melt and refreeze at the eaves.

We offer reliable roofing services for homeowners in Hampton Falls. If you need snow removal from your roof contact J. Carnes & Son Roofing to keep your roof in good condition all winter long.