Will Your Roof Hold Up the Snow This Winter?

house with snow on roof

Are you having some concerns about your roof’s ability to hold the weight of snow? Large amounts of snow can be a lot of fun — especially for a family snow day, but snow can also lead to many complications. Here’s how you can identify and prevent problems with your roof this winter:

Things to keep in mind

The roofing material — Both asphalt and slate shingles can support the weight of snow, but asphalt is a more affordable option and easier to replace.

The structural design — A steep and smooth roof will generally shed snow much easier than a flat or slightly pitched roof.

The weight of the snow — Wet snow can be almost three times heavier than fluffy snow, which means it could be adding dozens of pounds to your roof.

Signs of a weak roof

Be sure to check the attic for bends and cracks as well as noting how your roof looks from the street. Roof damage doesn’t always mean it’s from the weight of snow however. Roof damage could come from a variety of sources like insects, age, or rodents. It’s always good to check with roofing professionals before coming to any conclusions. 

Periodic snow removal

While your home is built to specific codes and should be able to withstand almost any snow load, some homeowners choose to remove some snow before it piles up. Before you do this, be aware of these important points. 

Don’t try to remove all the snow — You  might damage the roofing material underneath, which would leave the roof vulnerable to leaks. 

Pay attention —  As you’re pulling snow off the roof, you’ll want to make sure you don’t unintentionally block a path or hit a bystander.

Are you ready to start your next big remodeling project? Contact the professional remodeling contractors at GTFM Design & Build for a complimentary in-home design consultation today!