How do I remove snow from my roof? How about 4" of snow covered with 1/2" of ice? How do I know when I should risk getting out there to try to remove it?
We just received a notice from The New York City Office of Emergency Management saying:
The Dept. of Buildings is reminding property owners to de-ice public areas and safely
remove snow from roofs, overhangs, and awnings. The buildup of wet snow and rain can
present a threat to the structural integrity of a building.
I live in a suburb of NJ, but presumably the message still holds.
I have been out on my back roof (accessible from my bedroom window) in the rain but the ice-covered snow that we've had build up lately is another matter. I don't want my husband out there either. He is concerned for the structural integrity of the roofs, and now I get that, but it's not worth risking life and limb. Any suggestions would be super. Thanks!
Best Answer
I would suggest a roof rake - like this. You would start about 3-4 feet up, crack through ice and then rake down. If you have a tall roof this becomes a safety issue and might need two people - one to secure ladder. It isn't easy work.
Also if you can safely get on top of the roof it is much easier to push the snow off.