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COMSTOCK FOR DELEGATE BLOG

Thursday, February 11, 2010
WTOP radio tips on the threat to your roofs with all the snow and ice

How can I clear my roof and gutters of snow, ice?


Roof professionals say you shouldn't climb on your roof to remove snow. (AP)
WASHINGTON - Worried about your roof and gutters after all of this snow and wind?

Here are some tips:

  • Don't climb up on your roof.
  • Take a look at your roof from outside on the ground.
  • Make sure you shovel downspouts, so melting snow can flow away from the house.
  • Stay alert and monitor the conditions. If you notice all of the snow has been blown to one side of the roof, that can make it more prone to collapse.

Things to look for:

  • Sagging ceilings
  • New cracks in plaster
  • Creaking, popping or cracking noises

If you see or hear any of this, you should leave your home and call a roofing professional.

The melting and refreezing process can also create ice dams in your gutters.

Here are some gutter tips:

  • Turn off your attic furnace to reduce the heat near the roof and slow down the melting/refreezing process.
  • Turn off recessed lighting in your ceilings.
  • Get pairs of old pantyhose and fill them with quick gel ice melt. Tie the waistband and throw the pantyhose on your roof and gutter to create a channel for water to flow down.

It may also be a good idea to put in proper roof ventilation and attic insulation in the spring.

 



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