Most of us know first hand how dangerous the snow can be when you're driving around and if you're not prepared the winter weather could come crashing down on you while you're sitting in the comfort of your own home.
7&4's Kate Fox has more on the importance of keeping the snow off your roof.
Some may think it's a little too early to be talking about shoveling snow off your roof but snow removal experts say it's better to get a head start on it. They told the 7&4 newsteam the exact time you should start clearing off your roof and how to go about it safely.
Owner of AMO Outdoor Services Adam Orth says, "Once snow gets to about a foot to foot and a half you have to start worrying about getting the snow off the roof."
He says even if it doesn't look like a ton of snow is on your roof it's critical to get it off. Heat from the houses causes the snow to melt creating more ice and leaks.
Orth says, "You’re going to get a lot of build up and stuff from heat coming off of the house melting….causing ice damns and stuff that can cause damage to the house."
Problems like leaks and ice can lead to severe structural damage to the home. Orth says, "Dry wall can start cracking, ceiling can start burring a little bit, it's pretty expensive."
Owner of Pro Maintenance John Rollert says there's even more dangers, "When it's warm out the snow will get real heavy and wet and that will create weight on the trusses and also just snow falling off the roof on side walks and people walking underneath is dangerous."
Both snow experts say if you plan on removing the snow yourself keep a few safety tips in mind.
Rollert says, "It's very strenuous so you know you want to make sure you're in pretty good shape." Orth suggests, “Check the ladder make sure it's not on any icy patch where it could kick out from underneath you, second make sure you have some good boots with some traction on it, pay attention to obstacles you could possibly fall on to."
These experts say the safest way to get snow off your roof is to call a removal company who is insured. Also they say it's better for your roof and cheaper in the long run to have snow removed several times a season.
