People in Connecticut face a lot of challenges during winter. This place experiences heavy snowstorms and hail. Such intense weather makes daily life a bit more difficult.
One thing that such weather adds to daily life is roof raking. A process in which we clear the snow from the roofs. Some people believe it’s an important task in terms of keeping your roof safe. On the other side, some people ignore it.
Let’s explore more about roof raking and learn whether it’s worth it or not.
What is Roof Raking and How Does it Work?
Roof raking is a process of removing snow in which a long-handled tool (roof rake) is used. This tool can be a telescoping aluminum shaft that has a wide blade. This blade is used to remove the snow.
In this process, the ice from the edges is removed first, gradually moving upward.
Roof raking works by reducing the amount of snow on the roof and preventing the formation of ice dams. These ice dams can cause severe leakage issues if not removed on time.
The primary goal of roof raking is to safeguard the roof and home interiors from leakage.
Why Homeowners Choose to Rake Their Roofs
Many homeowners choose to rake their roofs in winter. Especially when they get a lot of snow buildup. Roof raking not only gives a tidy look to your roof but also prevents it from costly leakage repairs.
Some other reasons might include:
- People choose to rake their roofs to reduce the stress and weight on the roof. Water and snow can be heavy for the roof. It might compromise the structure of the roof if not removed for a long time.
- Roof raking is important to keep gutters and eaves from getting damaged. These two things are affected the most by heavy storms and snow.
The Dangers of Ice Dams and Snow Buildup
Leakage is not only a single problem of snow accumulation and ice dams. It brings more concerns. Some other issues are as follows.
Structural Damage
Snow seems light and fluffy at first. But when it is wet and stays for a longer period, it gains weight and forms piles. These heavy piles put extra weight on the roof. The structure of the roof becomes weak over time with this heavy load.
Collapsing Roofs
In some rare cases, the roofs collapse due to the heavy load of snow piles. It happens especially when the roofs are old. Such roofs could not bear the extra load and break easily.
Broken Gutters
Due to heavy ice dams and snow buildup, the gutters can pull away from the roofs. They can also become cracked or broken completely. The drainage system getting affected in this way can also increase the risk of water damage around your home’s foundation.
Mold and Mildew Growth
The water leakage can cause mold and mildew growth. It happens when some spots on the ceiling and on the walls get damp due to leaked water. Such a condition can affect the air quality and your family’s health as well.
When Roof Raking is Absolutely Necessary
Roof raking is necessary in the following conditions.
- If the snow layer on the roof is more than 6 inches.
- You have poor attic insulation.
- Your roof is old.
- You have a past roof leak history.
- You are living in a high-snowfall area and get limited sun exposure.
Situations Where Roof Raking Might Be Overkill
Roof raking is a good thing, but sometimes it can be skipped. In the following conditions, you don’t need to worry a lot about it:
- If your roof is steep enough, and naturally slides off the snow.
- Your attic is highly insulated.
- The snowfall is light.
- Your roof is newly built and designed to handle snow buildup.
Risks and Downsides of Roof Raking
Although roof raking is a beneficial task but it can be dangerous sometimes. Someone can get injured from the snow slab while removing the snow.
Also, the shingles and gutters can get damaged due to forceful raking. If the person is inexperienced with roof raking, then time and energy get wasted as well.
Alternatives to Traditional Roof Raking
Instead of using manual methods of roof raking, there are other useful alternatives. These methods minimize the risk of injuries:
- Get improved attic insulation.
- Install roof heating cables to melt the snow automatically.
- Upgrade to a metal roof. These roofs are best for snow shedding.
- Get professional snow removal service after large storms to maximize the effectiveness.
- Adding a shield membrane to get protection from water and ice during roof replacement can also reduce the effort of manual roof raking.
Expert Opinions: What the Pros Recommend
Professionals agree that raking is good, but it is not a permanent solution. You should combine it with other permanent methods. Focus on the lower 3 to 4 feet of the roof to prevent the formation of ice dams. Ventilation and insulation upgrades should also be done.
Tips for Safe and Effective Roof Raking
While taking care of your roof, never forget to take care of yourself. Here are some safety tips that you should consider while doing a roof raking:
- Avoid standing directly below the edge of your roof. Stand a bit away and then perform it.
- Rake after each major snowfall; don’t let the snow add up.
- Wear non-slip boots while raking. It will ensure a smooth path.
- Always start the work from the edge and then move upwards. Never try to do it from top to bottom.
- Use a non-metal rake with rollers to protect shingles from getting damaged.
Conclusion
If you are suffering from heavy storms and snow buildups and want professional support, Rick’s Main Roofing is available for you.
Our team is skilled in all roof-related issues, and we offer all seasonal roof maintenance. We have a strong work history and have successfully handled the roof-related issues of many roofs in Connecticut. Contact us today and get a free quote.
