Prepare Your Roof for Snow Before the Next Storm in PA

Winter Storm Jonas left the Northeast in shambles after dumping nearly two feet of powder in late January. Whether or not your roofing in Doylestown, PA, was prepared for the heavy accumulation, it’s time to reassess and get your exterior ready for the next major snowfall. After all, any existing problems are best fixed now before the next round of winter weather has the chance to make them worse. Here’s how to prepare your roof for snow before the next storm strikes.

 

Know Your Capacity

 

It always helps to know what your roof is capable of, so you can monitor snowfall and understand how it might impact your home. According to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, a majority of roofs can handle at least 20 pounds per square foot of snowfall. They also recommend the following guidelines:

 

• Fresh Snow: Up to 4 feet
• Packed Snow: Up to 2 feet
• Ice: Up to 4 inches

 

These numbers do not account for any existing snowfall on your roof.

 

Take Precautions With Pipes

 

Any roofer in Doylestown, PA, will also tell you that it’s important to protect your pipes and drains in a winter storm. If temperatures fall too low, water pipes can burst and start major leaks at the worst time possible. Keep your roof out of the equation by adequately insulating attic openings for vents and plumbing.

 

Remove Ice Dams

 

Talk to your roofing contractor in Ambler, PA, about eliminating any lingering ice dams created as a result of Winter Storm Jonas. When accumulations reach two feet or higher, it’s essential to ensure all that moisture has somewhere to drain. Help your gutters out by ensuring they are clear of any obstructions, including ice dams. You can also improve the situation by removing excess snow from your roof with a shovel before it gets to your gutters.

 

With these winter roof maintenance tips, your home will be ready for the next major storm.