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How To Prevent Roof Collapse From A Heavy Load Of Snow This Winter

Posted on January 5, 2025

Estimated Reading Time : 5 Min.

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Roof Collapse

As a homeowner, you might have an idea of the damage that heavy snow or ice dams can do to your roof. 

As roofing professionals, we have seen how a roof collapse from snow can devastate a home, and we want to help you prevent this from happening to your property. With decades of experience, we know exactly what it takes to keep your roof strong and secure during the harshest winter conditions.

In this complete guide, we will share how to prevent roof collapse from snow this winter. We will also go over the signs of roof damage caused by snow buildup.

If you are not sure if your roof is damaged, we offer free roof inspections in Wisconsin. To learn more, give us a call at (920) 249-4228.

How Much Snow A Roof Can Handle

First things first, you should have a basic understanding of how much snow your roof can handle. 

Generally speaking, a well-maintained roof can sustain up to 20 pounds per square foot of snow weight. 

However, the exact load-bearing capacity of your roof is determined by a few important things, which we will discuss below. 

#1 Age and Condition of Your Roof Structure

As roofs get older, they naturally become weaker because of weather exposure and age-related wear and tear. A newer roof can generally handle more weight than an older one. 

Regular maintenance and repairs help maintain its strength, while visible damage or sagging are warning signs of reduced capacity.

#2 Pitch and Design of Your Roof

The steepness (pitch) of your roof affects how snow accumulates. Steeper roofs generally let snow slide off more easily, while flatter roofs tend to collect more snow. 

The way your roof is built, including its shape and support beams, also determines how much weight it can safely hold.

#3 Type of Snow (Wet vs. Dry)

Wet snow is heavier than dry snow, weighing up to five times more! Think of wet snow like a heavy, dense sponge full of water. 

Dry snow is lighter and fluffier, like powdered sugar, which naturally puts less strain on your roof.

#4 Existing Condition Of Your Roof

Pre-winter maintenance and repairs are also important. If your roof’s structure is already damaged, then the weight of snow can put more stress on it.

Even minor problems in your roof can be affected by the snow load, resulting in expensive repairs and roof collapse in extreme cases. 

#5 Quality of Your Roof’s Construction

How well your roof was built makes a big difference in its strength. Good-quality materials, proper installation techniques, and following building codes all contribute to a stronger roof. Better construction means a better ability to handle heavy snow loads.

How To Prevent Roof Collapse From Snow 

So, without any further delay, we will discuss ways to prevent roof collapse from heavy snow. 

#1 Regularly Remove Snow

Regularly remove snow

Don’t let snow build up on your roof, this is the most basic way to prevent roof collapse.

Remove snow before it reaches 6 inches deep using a roof rake from ground level. Never climb onto a snowy roof yourself. Keep the removal even across the roof surface to maintain balance, and always pay extra attention to areas where snow tends to pile up.

Also Read: Top 5 Products To Help You Get Rid Of Ice Dams

#2 Maintain Clear Drainage Systems

Poor drainage can also be a culprit for roof collapse. Make sure your gutters and downspouts stay clear of ice and debris throughout winter. It’s recommended that you clean your gutters and downspouts thoroughly before winter starts.

Installing gutter guards can also prevent leaves and debris from clogging the system. This helps melting snow drain properly and prevents dangerous ice buildup.

#3 Structural Reinforcement

Improve your roof’s ability to handle the weight of snow by reinforcing its structure. Add support beams where needed and ensure trusses and rafters are solid. 

Consider updating to stronger roofing materials and installing snow guards on sloped surfaces. These improvements help distribute snow weight evenly, preventing potential roof collapse from snow.

#4 Monitor The Warning Signals Of Roof Collapse

Watch for warning signs of a collapsing roof like new cracks appearing in walls or ceilings. Listen for unusual creaking sounds, notice if doors or windows suddenly stick, and look for sagging ceilings or roof lines. 

These signs might indicate your roof is struggling with added weight from snow.

#5 Schedule Routine Roof Inspections

We recommend you schedule regular roof inspections, especially if your roof has reached the end of its estimated lifespan. Professionals can spot weak points, check structural supports, and assess shingle condition. 

They’ll verify proper insulation and ventilation, which affect how your roof handles snow. Regular inspections catch problems early before snow causes a roof collapse.

In Wisconsin, we are here to inspect your roof for free. Call us at (920) 249-4228 today to schedule.

#6 Be Ready for Emergencies

Make sure that you are prepared for any emergencies. Before the heavy snow arrives, make an emergency response plan. Keep contact numbers for snow removal contractors and emergency roofing services readily available. 

Know your roof’s snow load capacity and keep snow removal equipment on hand. Have an evacuation plan ready in case of severe roof stress or signs of a collapsing roof.

How Are Different Roofs Affected By The Weight of Snow?

All roof pitches are impacted differently by the added weight of snow. Here, we will quickly discuss how to prevent roof collapse on different roof pitches. 

👉 Flat Roofs

Flat roofs are particularly more vulnerable to collapse from the weight of snow. 

To prevent this, it is recommended that you clear the snow regularly, especially during heavy snowfalls. Additionally, follow the preventive measures we have provided above.

👉 Pitched Roofs

While pitched roofs have better snow-shedding capacity than flat roofs, you have to take some proactive approaches to prevent roof collapse. 

Make sure that the snow guards are installed properly on your roof, and give special attention to the valley areas. Monitor snowdrift patterns and maintain proper water flow on your roof to prevent ice dams. 

Schedule A Free Roof Inspection In Wisconsin Today

As your local roofing experts in Mayville, WI, and the surrounding areas, BRH Enterprises LLC is committed to helping you prevent roof collapse from snow. 

Our professional team understands the challenges that Wisconsin winters present to your roof. We combine our experience with modern roofing techniques to make sure your roof can safely sustain snow loads throughout the winter.

Remember, preventing a roof collapse is always more cost-effective than dealing with a collapsed roof. Don’t wait until you see warning signs. 

Call us today at (920) 249-4228 to schedule your free roof inspection or for a personalized winter protection plan. 

Our team is ready to help you keep your home safe and secure, no matter what.

FAQs

A. You can try installing additional support beams, upgrading to weather-resistant roofing materials, enhancing insulation, and improving ventilation systems. These modifications strengthen your roof’s ability to handle heavy snow loads and prevent ice damage.

A. Modern solutions include heat cables to prevent ice dams, snow load monitoring devices to track weight accumulation, enhanced drainage systems for proper water flow, and snow guards to control snow slide-off.

A. DIY snow removal is dangerous, risking personal injury and roof damage. Without proper equipment and expertise, you could fall or accidentally damage roofing materials. Professional services ensure safe removal and protect your roof’s integrity.

A. Professional roofing services include emergency snow removal, expert assessment of snow load risks, specialized equipment usage, and preventive maintenance. They also offer quick response during winter emergencies to prevent structural damage.

A. Investing in winter protection prevents expensive emergency repairs, extends roof lifespan, improves energy efficiency through better insulation, and reduces the risk of structural damage from heavy snow accumulation.

BRH Enterprises
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