Stay Safe This Winter
Heavy snow loads and ice formation can stress roof structures and create dangerous conditions. Proper winter maintenance protects your investment while keeping you safe.
Understanding Snow Load Limits
Fresh snow weighs approximately 5-7 kg per m² per 10cm of depth. Wet, compacted snow can weigh 12-20 kg per m² per 10cm. Most residential roofs are designed for 100-150 kg per m² snow load, but older structures may have lower tolerances. After heavy snowfall exceeding 30cm, consider professional assessment, especially if you notice sagging, cracking sounds, or interior ceiling cracks.
Safe Snow Removal Practices
Use Proper Tools: Roof rakes with telescoping handles allow ground-level removal for single-story homes. Never use metal shovels that can damage roofing materials. Plastic shovels with rubber edges are gentler on roof surfaces.
Work from the Ground: Whenever possible, avoid climbing on snow-covered roofs. Ice-covered surfaces are extremely slippery, and falls from heights can be fatal.
Remove Snow Evenly: Don't clear just one side of the roof, as uneven weight distribution can cause structural stress. Work systematically across the entire roof surface.
Leave a Base Layer: Leave 5-8cm of snow on the roof surface to protect shingles and membranes from tool damage. The remaining snow will melt naturally without excessive weight.
Avoid Roof Edge Work: Ice dams typically form at roof edges. Don't attempt to chip or hammer ice formations—you risk puncturing the roof membrane and causing leaks.
Ice Dam Prevention and Removal
Prevention Strategies:
- Ensure attic insulation meets recommended R-values (R-38 to R-60 for most climates)
- Verify proper attic ventilation (soffit vents, ridge vents, or gable vents)
- Seal air leaks from living spaces into attics
- Keep gutters clean to allow meltwater drainage
Professional Removal: If ice dams form despite prevention efforts, contact professional services offering steam removal. This method safely melts ice without damaging roofing materials. DIY chemical melters (calcium chloride in fabric tubes) can provide temporary relief but don't address underlying causes.
When to Call Professionals
Contact certified roofing professionals immediately if you notice:
- Interior water stains or active leaking
- Visible roof sagging or bowing
- Cracking or creaking sounds from roof structure
- Snow accumulation exceeding 50cm
- Ice dams more than 15cm thick
- Multi-story buildings or steep roofs (over 6/12 pitch)
UpRoof offers emergency winter roofing services throughout Latvia. We provide 24/7 response for urgent situations and scheduled snow removal packages for the entire winter season. Contact us at +371 25612440 for immediate assistance or free consultation.