Should You Remove Snow From Your Roof? Here’s What You Need to Know
Winter storms make everything look calm and cozy, but all that snow sitting on your roof can raise a lot of questions.
Do you need to remove it? Is it dangerous to leave it? Is it dangerous to touch it?
The truth: most roofs can handle a normal amount of snow, but there are times when you should take action and times when you should absolutely not get on the roof yourself.
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide what’s best for your home this winter.
1. When Snow Is Not a Problem
A typical Ohio roof can handle a surprising amount of weight.
So if you’ve got just a few inches or a light blanket of snow, no need to panic. It’ll melt on its own when we get a warmer day. Normal snowfall = usually no action needed.
2. When You Should Worry
Snow becomes a problem when it gets deep, heavy, or wet — especially after back-to-back storms.
Watch for:
12+ inches of heavy, wet snow
Ice building along the edges (early signs of an ice dam)
Noticeable sagging, especially near the middle of the roof
Creaking sounds inside the house
Doors suddenly sticking (pressure signs)
Water spots or drips around ceilings or walls
If you’re seeing any of these, it’s time to get someone out to take a look.
3. What About Ice Dams?
Ice dams happen when snow melts, runs down the roof, and then refreezes along the edges.
This traps more melting snow behind it, and that water can start pushing under your shingles.
Signs of an ice dam:
Big icicles forming
Ice thick along the gutter line
Water stains inside the house near exterior walls
Removing snow above the ice dam can help — but again, never climb on an icy roof.
4. Never Get on a Snowy Roof Yourself
Snow and ice make roofs extremely slippery, and falls are common and dangerous.
Even using the wrong tool can damage shingles.
If you really need to clear snow:
Use a roof rake from the ground
Only pull snow from the first 3–4 feet up
Never scrape directly against the shingles
If the snow is too deep to rake, call a professional
Staying off the roof is always the safest move.
5. The Bottom Line
Most of the time, your roof will be fine. But if you’re seeing heavy buildup, sagging, or signs of an ice dam, it’s better to get ahead of the problem before it turns into a leak.
If something doesn’t look right, I’m happy to check it out.
Stay safe, stay warm, and enjoy the winter season, preferably from the ground.
