Roof Rakes: Should You Use One?

It is SNOW season in Mid-Michigan!  This time of year can be a lot of fun.  Sleds are in use, people are skiing and snowmen are abundant.  The one thing people forget to talk about is how the winter weather can wreak havoc on your home, especially shingle roofing.

When it comes to shingle roofs it is important that access snow is removed before it is allowed to thaw and refreeze creating ice dams.  For this many homeowners choose to purchase and use roof rakes.  As a roofing contractor there are benefits and pitfalls when using them.

Before using a roof rake consider the age of your shingle roof.  Older roofs could easily be damaged using a roof rake.  Damage could include removing shingles, the grit on the shingles being removed and roof leaks/ceiling damage if not properly fixed.

Roof rakes should not be used to remove ice form your roof.  Roof rakes should be used to avoid ice form building up by removing the white fluff before it becomes solid ice.  When using a roof rake start by removing the snow at the corners of the roof and then proceeding to the middle.

Consider safety when getting the snow off the roof.  Walking on a snow covered roof is never considered a safe option.  When using a roof rake add an extension to the rake to reach higher on the roof.  Don’t use a ladder either as you can easily be thrown off balance.  Snow makes roof tops and ladders slippery.  Clearing your roof of excess snow is not worth risking a fall or damage from slipping and tearing the shingles.

If you find while using a roof rake you have loosened a shingle call a roofing professional to come out and repair the area as soon as possible to prevent any damage to the underlayment and in turn the interior roofing materials.