Roof snow removal: when and why it's essential

Let's be honest: roof snow removal isn't the most exciting topic in the world. But every winter, we get calls from homeowners in a panic because their roof is leaking or their ceiling is starting to crack under the weight of the snow. And at that point, the repair costs quite a bit more than preventive snow removal.

So take 3 minutes to read this — it could save you thousands of dollars.

When should you have your roof cleared?

The rule of thumb is simple: when there's more than 60 cm (about 2 feet) of snow built up on your roof, it's time to act. But it's not just a question of quantity — it's also a question of the type of snow.

Light, powdery snow in January weighs almost nothing. But wet March snow, mixed with ice? It can weigh up to 480 kg per cubic metre. Your roof is designed to bear a certain weight, and we're sometimes surprised to see how badly people underestimate the load.

Here are the times you should call:

Why is it so important?

We're not trying to scare you for nothing. Here's what actually happens when too much snow is left on a roof:

Structural overload is risk #1. An average home's roof can accumulate tens of thousands of pounds of snow. The framing is designed for a certain weight, but between the snow, the ice and the meltwater, you can exceed the limit without realizing it.

Ice dams are risk #2. When the heat from your home melts the snow on the roof, the water runs down toward the edge... and refreezes. This ice dam prevents the next round of water from draining, so it seeps under the shingles or the membrane. The result: water in your walls and ceilings.

And finally, excess moisture in the attic causes wood rot, damages the insulation and encourages mould. Problems that are invisible but that build up year after year.

Professional snow removal vs "I'll do it myself"

We understand the temptation. But climbing onto a snow-covered, icy roof is dangerous. Very dangerous. Every winter, Quebecers fall off their roof trying to clear it themselves.

At Toitures VNC, we have the equipment and the training to do this safely. We use specialized tools that won't damage your roof, and we always leave a thin protective layer of snow to protect the membrane or the shingles.

Contact us about our snow-removal packages. We'd rather prevent than cure — and so would your wallet.