Snow Removal

To our valued RAM customers:

The past few weeks have reminded us that Minnesota Winters can be unpredictable and very snow-laden. With this in mind, you need to pay attention to snow buildup on the roofs of your buildings, and take steps to remove excess snow. 12” of packed snow on a roof can weigh between 20 and 40 pounds per square foot (psf). If that snow melts and refreezes, creating an ice dam, that 12” of snow can weigh up to 60 psf. Excess weight on a roof due to snow and ice can lead to roof damage or even collapse. Furthermore, ice dams can lead to water leaking into the walls or interior spaces of your building.

What is an ice dam? An ice dam occurs when warm air inside a building space or attic space warms the roof material, which causes snow to melt. When that melting snow travels toward the eaves of the building, it can refreeze as it encounters a colder roof area (typically at the eaves, which are unheated). As the snow refreezes into ice, it can prevent snow from sliding off the roof, which can lead to more melting and refreezing, thus creating an ongoing problem.

A special area of concern for excess snow buildup, as well as ice damming, is in valley areas on the roof. Valleys are created by two roof lines coming together, such as where a dormer roof meets the main roof of a building, or where two roof lines come together. The building shown below illustrates a roof valley.

If you notice excessive snow starting to build up on your buildings, it needs to be removed, especially in the valley areas! You can do it yourself, or hire a professional to remove the snow.

If you do it yourself, please use the following tips to make the process as safe as possible:

• Use a snow rake if possible, so you can do the work while standing safely on the ground.
• Watch for sliding snow as you work. A snow avalanche can occur at any time.
• If you must work from a ladder, secure the ladder at both the top and bottom so it doesn’t slip.
• Remove the deepest snow first, thereby relieving the roof of the added stress.
• Don’t try to move the snow horizontally across the roof; move it straight down the roof to avoid damaging your roofing material.

Proper snow removal and ice dam prevention will help to make sure your building serves you for many, many years to come!