Homeowners, tenants, and businesses need to be cognizant of the danger posed by heavy snow loads on roofs, and importance of recognizing the warning signs of potential structural weaknesses.  In some instances, the risks posed by accumulated snow on roofs can be mitigated by safely removing snow from roofs of both commercial buildings and homes.  Flat and low pitched roofs, most often found on industrial buildings, but are also used in certain home designs, are at the greatest risk of buckling under heavy snow and ice accumulations.

The following recommendations are from the Massachusetts Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA).

Tips for Removing Snow and Ice From Roofs and Other Areas

DO

  • Use a snow rake for pitched roofs (available at most hardware stores) to remove snow from your roof.
  • Start from the edge and work your way into the roof.
  • Try to shave the snow down to 2 or 3 inches on the roof instead of scraping the roof clean, which will risk damage to your shingles or other roof covering.
    • Keep in mind that any metal tool could conduct electricity if it touches a power line.
    • Plastic shovels are usually best. Metal tools may cause damage to your roof.
    • Shovel snow from flat roofs throwing the snow over the side away from the building.  
  • Remove large icicles carefully if they're hanging over doorways and walkways.  Consider knocking down icicles through windows using a broom stick.
  • Wear protective headgear and goggles when performing any of these tasks.
  • Consider hiring professionals to do the job. The combination of heights plus ice makes this one of the more dangerous house chores. If you choose to do the task yourself, have someone outside with you to assist.
  • Keep gutters and drains clean, free of ice and snow and keep downspouts clean at ground level.

DON'T

  • Unless approved by a registered professional engineer, don't add your weight or the weight of equipment to the roof.
  • Don't use a ladder since ice tends to build up on both the rungs of the ladder and the soles of your boots.
  • Don't use electric heating devices like hair dryers or heat guns to remove snow and ice.
  • Don't use open-flame devices to remove snow and ice.

 

How to Recognize Problems with Roofs

  • Sagging roofs
  • Severe roof leaks
  • Cracked or split wood members
  • Bends or ripples in supports
  • Cracks in walls or masonry
  • Sheared off screws from steel frames
  • Sprinkler heads that have dropped down below ceiling tiles
  • Doors that pop open
  • Doors or windows that are difficult to open
  • Bowed utility pipes or conduit attached at ceiling
  • Creaking, cracking or popping sounds

 

What to Do if You Have Problems

  • If there is imminent danger or you have the above mentioned signs of a problem, evacuate the building and call 911.
  • For general questions, call your local building or fire department business line.

For more information, see the Public Safety Advisory on Potential Roof Collapses pdf format of Public Safety Advisory on Roof Collapses from DPS