How to Shovel Snow Off a Roof
If you live in an area known for snow-filled winters, chances are you've had to clear snow off your roof. Here are some guidelines to help you shovel snow off the roof safely and quickly while protecting your roof's surface.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Snow rake
- Snow cutter
- Razor rake
- Heavy durable gloves, such as those worn by firefighters
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1
Purchase one of the tools designed to shovel snow off a roof. They include a snow rake, roof razor rake or a snow cutter.
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2
Create a path around your house by repeatedly retracing your steps until you've created a flat surface. Make sure that your path will support your body weight by filling any holes with enough snow to make a solid, flat path.
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3
Use a snow rake to shovel the easy snow off the roof first. Avoid removing more snow than you will be able to shovel when it's on the ground.
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4
Keep a protective coating of snow on your roof to prevent damaging the roof's surface.
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5
Shovel snow off your roof over time by removing several small sections each day.
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6
Consider using a snow cutter if you need to shovel deep crusts, icy or heavy snow. Used the same way as a snow rake, a snow cutter removes snow in sections. Because you don't have to climb onto your roof to shovel off snow, a snow cutter is easier and safer to operate.
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7
Try using a roof razor's double cutting surface to shovel snow off your roof. One section remains on the roof's edge until you remove all the easy-to-reach snow. Push the head of the razor rake up and into the snow to force it to the ground. Use roof razors if you are shoveling snow off a steep pitched roof.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Snow rakes must be assembled.
Purchase multiple snow rake kits if you need an extra long rake.
Exercise caution when standing on your roof.
Shoveling snow off a roof is easier than moving snow on the ground.
Extending a roof razor's pole also will extend your reach.
Have someone at ground level "spot" you while you are on the roof.
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Comments
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Anonymous
Dec 06, 2011
Some good information as we head into the winter season and anticipate getting lots of snow in Summit County, Colorado. Take the necessary precautions so you don't have a leak or fall off your roof!
