We get plenty of snowfall in the Northeast. Luckily, most of it is manageable and we can easily clear it away from our property. Sometimes, however, we experience a snowfall of epic proportions. We get feet of snow instead of inches. These are the best days to stay inside and cuddle under a blanket with a mug of hot chocolate. Yet, there is a hidden danger lurking with these massive snow storms that homeowners and building managers need to consider.
The weight of snow poses a large problem for the stability of your structure. Light and fluffy snow doesn’t usually cause a problem, but for snow that is wet and heavy you should be mindful of the weight that is bearing down on your roof. A collapsed roof can cause injuries, property damage, and water damage. This winter, keep your property in good condition to prevent dangerous occurrences that could cause your roof to give way by following the tips below:
- Be mindful of the amount of snow accumulating on top of your building. Ice and heavy snow can severely impact the weight your roof can handle. Keep an eye on drifts that may build up on flat roofs and remove them if possible.
- Work with a structural engineer to better understand the amount of snow your roof can support. For flat roofed properties, it is especially important to know the weight load capacity of your roof.
- Create a snow removal plan that safely clears snow off your roof without getting in the way of doorways, city meters, and hydrants. Use brightly colored markers on the ground so pedestrians stay clear of falling snow and ice that may cause injuries.
- Use plastic rakes and shovels when removing the snow in order to avoid damaging the roof. Plastic tools also help you avoid dangerous electric shock should you come into contact with electrical wires.
- Watch for warning signals like a cracked window frame, ceilings that sag, and water spots on ceiling tiles. These are signs that your roof may be compromised.
If you stay alert to your property and surroundings, you’ll be able to recognize trouble before a disaster occurs. A strategic plan will allow you to safely remove snow and ice from your roof in order to avoid a roof collapse.
However, if you do experience a collapsed roof, give our team a call. At Restore Pro, we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to your emergency needs. We act fast in order to restore your property from water damage. We will clean and dry the damaged area and take steps to prevent any additional damage that may occur due to water. Your property will be restored back to its original condition.
For more information about our Water Damage Restoration Service call us at 781-664-9800. Visit our Facebook page to learn more about our services at https://www.facebook.com/RestorePro911.
