Simply put, ice can cause extensive damage to a home’s roof. From ice buildup and backed-up moisture to icicles hanging from eaves, a roof can develop ice-related problems in more than one way. In the event that you are facing an icy roof this winter, we wanted to share a roofer’s guide to removing ice from a roof.
Conditions that Make for an Icy Roof
Taking steps to prevent ice buildup on your roof can help avoid roof issues from developing. First, know that warmer temperatures during the day followed by cold temperatures at night can make a rain or snow storm turn to ice overnight on your roof.
Next, combine that with bad insulation or ventilation, and it can also lead to ice buildup and back-ups that can form large, heavy areas of ice…the perfect recipe for roofing problems.
Removing Ice on Roofs
While ice prevention through proper roof design and installation is the best way to go, removing ice from a roof can be an option during a critical period if done safely. There are a number of tools and procedures you can use to eliminate ice from your roof. Start by reviewing the roof area for ice or snow overhangs and icicles, and decide what will need removal.
Thick ice will be hard to remove. And, removing any ice or heavy snow can damage the roof itself if tools used strike the roof, cut the roofing materials, or damage shingles. De-icing products can also harm plants and structures below.
A sloped roof will likely have less ice accumulation than a flat roof from a porch, shed, or shade enclosure. Instead of ice removal, creating a drainage space can be a better option.
- Heating Cables or Tape – In an emergency or permanently installed before winter, these cables or tape can be strategically installed with clips to create drainage paths for the melted ice. This can be used on flat and sloped roofs, and can be quite helpful when they work well. However, they can be unsightly, expensive to install, and expensive to run with electricity.
- De-Icer – Avoid salt on your roofing system as it will accelerate corrosion and rust, and can damage your roofing shingles. Look for something more gentle, like calcium magnesium acetate or potassium chloride.
- Hot Water – This can be a simple solution, poured from a window or from a hose run to an indoor faucet. Great caution should be taken to avoid causing loosened ice to quickly slide off the roof and hit someone or something.
- Removal – Carefully removing icicles with a stick, shovel, or broom is important. They hang from eaves and gutters in an uncertain manner. As they melt, they can quickly become dangerous and hit objects, people, or animals below.
Your goal is to remove only as much ice as necessary and not create more damage in the process. If you are still having roof ice collection after addressing your roofing ventilation and insulation issues, only try to remove the ice in a safe manner.
Your Local Austin, TX Roofing Professionals
We strive to bring you the best in roofing for the Austin, Texas area. We deliver decades of roofing experience, training, and knowledge in this area’s needs. We are a prominent roofing company in residential roof repair and roof replacement. We will not ask for a deposit on labor or materials as a dependable way to stand out from the competition while bringing you the best product and service in Austin.
When we inspect, install, or repair your roof, we want to provide you with the best options for your roof design, components, and ventilation. We are Master Elite Contractors bringing you the latest in roofing technology, and a member of our local area Better Business Bureau, so you know we take pride in our work and our community.
Contact us by phone or email to schedule your FREE roofing inspection and quote today.