ULTIMATE GUIDE TO Snow Removal

A winter wonderland doesn't have to be stressful. Here's how to make winter storms easier on you and your home.

- BY KARUNA EBERL

After you've shoveled the sidewalk and driveway, tackling the roof, doorways and patio might sound like drudgery, but these steps are all important for preventing damage to your home. “Snow looks harmless when it's fresh and fluffy, but once it settles and stacks up, it can cause serious issues,” says Reuben Saltzman, a second-generation home inspector and CEO of Structure Tech Home Inspections in Minnesota. Here's how to prevent and mitigate those problems.

When to Clear the Roof

The general rule is to clear snow off of your roof once it reaches 6 in. deep. That helps prevent leaks, structural damage and, in extreme cases, collapse. This is especially vital if your home has an older roof that's sagging or that might not be built to modern snow-load codes. Remove snow sooner rather than later, before it gets packed down and becomes more difficult to move.

How to Safely Remove Roof Snow

A roof rake, which is a long tool that you use while standing on the ground, is the safest tool for this task. If your roof is too high to reach with one of those, the safest solution is to call in a pro, since a snowy roof can be dangerously slippery. However, if you're determined to DIY the job, use a sturdy ladder and tie yourself off with a safety harness and rope.

All About Ice Dams

Ice dams are ridges that build up on the edges of a roof, preventing water from properly draining off. They can also lift shingles and create leaks into soffits, walls and ceilings. To prevent them, clean your gutters before winter, consider installing heated roof cables and remove snow from the roof regularly.