Should You Rake Your Roof After a Snowstorm? (Pros & Cons)
After a heavy snowfall, many homeowners wonder if they should grab a roof rake and start clearing off their roof. But while roof raking can help prevent damage, it also comes with risks.
If you don’t do it correctly, it can damage your roof, limiting its longevity. But if you perform the task properly, it has great benefits. So how do you know if it’s for you?
For over a decade, Rescue My Roof has been a leader in the roofing industry. We’ve helped thousands of homeowners make educated decisions about their homes. We’re here to help you, too.
In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of roof raking so you can decide if it’s necessary for your home. Here’s what you need to know.
Top 4 Pros of Roof Raking
Roof raking – when done properly – can have a myriad of benefits. Here’s the top four advantages you can anticipate:
1. Prevents Ice Dams
One of the biggest benefits of roof raking is that it helps prevent ice dams. Ice dams form when warm air from the attic melts snow, which then refreezes at the roof’s edge, causing water backup and potential leaks. Removing excess snow can reduce this risk.
2. Reduces Roof Stress
Heavy snow accumulation can add a significant weight load to your roof. If your roof is older or not structurally sound, excessive weight could lead to damage or even collapse. Roof raking helps alleviate this strain.
3. Prevents Water Damage
As snow melts and refreezes, water can seep under shingles and into your home. Raking off the snow helps minimize the chances of water intrusion and interior damage.
4. Extends Roof Lifespan
By reducing the weight and moisture exposure on your roof, raking can help prevent premature wear and tear, extending the life of your roofing materials.
Cons of Roof Raking
Ideally, roof raking can create the ideal conditions for your roof to last 20-25 years. However, with our experience in the roofing industry, we’ve seen a lot of homeowners damage their roof by attempting roof raking.
Here are some drawbacks you should know before taking the risk:
1. Potential for Injury
Roof raking can be dangerous, especially if you’re using a ladder on icy ground. Slips and falls are a real risk, so it’s important to take proper safety precautions or hire a professional.
2. Can Damage Roofing Materials
If done improperly, raking can damage shingles or loosen roofing components. Using the wrong tools or applying too much pressure can cause more harm than good.
3. Not Always Necessary
In some cases, roof raking isn’t needed. If you have proper attic insulation and ventilation, snow may naturally melt and drain without causing issues. Raking may only be required for homes prone to ice dams or excessive snow buildup.
4. Can Be Labor-Intensive
Raking a roof takes time and effort, especially after repeated snowstorms. If snow accumulation is frequent, you may need to do it multiple times per season.
When Should You Rake Your Roof?
- If your home has a history of ice dams.
- If there is over 6 inches of snow on the roof.
- If your roof has a low slope that accumulates snow more easily.
- If your attic lacks proper insulation and ventilation.
Roof Raking Tips
If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, roof raking may be ideal to keep snow from avalanching off of your roof from time to time. Or, you’re worried about your roof’s structural integrity, and want to limit the amount of snow accumulation.
Either way, here are some pro tips to keep you from doing more harm than good.
- Use a roof rake with a long handle to stay safely on the ground.
- Choose a rake with a plastic blade to prevent shingle damage.
- Avoid removing all the snow—leave a thin layer to protect shingles.
- Start from the edge of the roof and work your way up to prevent damage.
- Never use metal tools that could scrape or puncture the roof.
Using A Roof Rake
Roof raking can be a helpful winter maintenance task, but it’s not always necessary. If your home is prone to ice dams or heavy snow buildup, it may be worth the effort. However, if your roof is in good condition and has proper insulation, you may not need to worry. Always prioritize safety and consider hiring a professional if needed.
Learn more with “5 Tips and Tricks for Roof Raking: Protecting Your Roof for Winter” and “Common Winter Roof Repairs and How to Avoid Them.”
Are you dealing with snow accumulation or bad effects from the heavy Wisconsin snow? Rescue My Roof has got you covered. Contact us today to get a free estimate.
