Minnesota winters can be beautiful with fresh snowfall but can wreak havoc on your home. Neglected roof snow can create considerable damage. How much snow is too much for your roof to handle? Here is everything you need to know on how to tell if you have too much snow and what you can do about it.
How Much Snow Can a Roof Hold?
Most roofs in Minnesota can support a snow load of 35 pounds per square foot. How much snow this equates to can vary because fluffy snow weighs far less than dense wet snow. To give you a rough estimate on snow weight, 12 inches of fresh snow or three to five inches of packed snow is the equivalent of five pounds of weight per square foot on your roof. An inch of ice can equal this amount of snow weight and should be monitored more closely to prevent damage.
When to Clear Snow from Your Roof
You do not need to be concerned about removing snow from your roof for the most part. Signs to look for that can signal too much snow accumulation include wall cracks or deformations in your ceiling or interior doors being difficult to close. If you notice ice dams, you may want a professional to remove snow from your roof. Trying to clear too much snow yourself can be dangerous.
Concerned About Damage from Too Much Snow?
With a properly constructed roof, you typically do not need to worry about too much snow on your roof. If you are concerned about snow damage, reach out to an experienced roofing professional. At Signature Home Services, GAF/ELK master elite roofers can provide an inspection and repair any potential issues. These experienced roofers service residential and commercial customers throughout the Twin Cities area. Request a free estimate and inspection today.
