Winter in the Twin Cities usually brings chances of heavy storms and blizzards. Freshly fallen snow may look angelic and serene, but it can be a killer for roofs – particularly flat and low-slope roofs. When snow piles up on a roof, it is known as snow loading.
More specifically, the term describes the downward force on a roof by the weight of accumulated ice and snow. If the snow load is greater than the weight the building was initially designed to handle, the roof and underlying structure may fail. That’s why it is so important to regularly clear snow and ice off a flat or low-slope roof throughout the winter months.
Snow loads are influenced by many factors, such as:
- Elevation
- Weather and moisture patterns
- Slope direction
- Exposure
- Wind direction/severity
- Roof configuration
For the Twin Cities metro area, the roof snow load is designated at about 35 pounds per square foot. It’s not cut and dried how much snow this equals, though, as it depends on the type of snow – light and fluffy vs. dense and wet. If you have a property with a flat or low-slope roof and you have experienced structural problems with your roof in the past, it’s wise to regularly remove the snow with every storm.
Managing Snow Load
The best way to prevent a potential roof collapse for your multi-family or HOA property due to a snow overload is to remove the snow and ice safely. Here are some tips:
- Hire a snow removal contractor: HOA roofers in the Twin Cities are trained in snow removal from flat and low-slope roofs, and know how to safely tether to and work on these structures.
- Use a snow rake: You can find these at your local hardware or big box store. They feature telescoping handles that make it easy to reach up onto the roof and rake the snow down.
- Move snow away from the foundation: If your property has a basement, winter flooding is a good possibility. This is why you should shovel or blow snow away from the side of the structure. Relocate the snow to places that slope away from parking lots and walkways.
- Engage in consistent roof maintenance: By being consistent in your roof maintenance, you can address any necessary repairs as soon as possible. This includes taking the time to clean out your gutters after a snow or rainstorm.
- Look out for the signs of potential collapse: Regularly monitor your roof for signs of failure. If you see anything alarming, contact your roofer right away.
Contact Allstar Construction and Maintenance for Roofing Maintenance
Allstar Construction and Maintenance is your source for regular roof maintenance, repairs and snow removal for HOA or multi-family properties. Please contact us today at (952) 234-9995 to schedule service or get a quote on snow removal this winter.