Winters can be brutal on your roof, and it’s important to know how much snowfall a roof can handle. A heavy, wet snowfall will weigh much more than a light fluffy coating. So, how do you know how much snow on the roof is too much?
Snow on the Roof
In general, the average roof can handle snow weighing up to 20 lbs for each square foot. Any more than this and too much stress will be placed on the roofing system. The type of snow accumulation on your roof has a lot to do with how much weight is safe for it to handle. There are four types of snow that impact your roof in different ways; light and fluffy, packed, packed with ice, and ice.
If the weight of packed snow and ice is too much, cracks or bent rafters in your attic will appear. Any sound of popping or cracking is also an indication the precipitation is too heavy for your roof. In the case of severe damage, you may find that the frame of your house has shifted.
A small amount of accumulation can be safely removed with an extension pole and roof rake. While you can’t always get all the snow off your roof, you only need to remove enough to prevent your roof from collapsing. Avoid damaging your shingles or flashing. For major removal of snow, always contact your local roofing company.
Contact Cox Roofing
Having snow removed from your roof in a timely manner is an important task for many homeowners. Whether you do it yourself or you hire a professional, excessive snow has to go. If you are looking for a roofing company in Odenton, MD, contact Cox Roofing. Cox Roofing is a full-service, certified roofing contractor providing residential roofing services of the residents of the state of Maryland. We pride ourselves on our personalized and professional service.