Tips for clearing heavy snow and ice accumulation
Southwestern Ontario has experienced more snowfall this year than in recent memory and it’s only February! With the extra snow comes a greater chance of Ice accumulation and roof collapse. Here are some quick tips to protect your homes, businesses, barns, cabins and other structures from snow and ice build-up.
Do a Walk-Around
Walk around your property and look at any area where snow can build up or block important areas:
- outdoor stairs, doorways, balconies - especially if they're emergency exits
- windows - to prevent them from an ice build-up
- garage, temporary car shelter or shed
- access to any propane or natural gas tanks
- the surface of your hot tub or above-ground pool
- the roof - of your home, garage, shed, cottage, business, farm, and any other outbuildings on your property, especially ones with a tarp or temporary structure
Did you know? The best time to clear snow is after approximately 5 centimetres of snow accumulation. This ensures there isn’t excessive buildup and surfaces don’t become too slippery.
Shovel Smart
Shoveling is hard on your body and it’s not a quick job. Using the right technique and the right equipment will go a long way:
- Stretch your arms, wrists, legs and back before you begin
- Use the strength of your knees, legs and arms to clear the snow, while keeping your back straight. Avoid lifting with your back
- If possible, push the snow instead of lifting it
- Use an ergonomic shovel to prevent back injuries
- Take it slow
- Stop if you feel tired
- Stay hydrated
- Consider using environmentally friendly de-icers to avoid damaging your driveway or contaminating waterways
Tips for Using a Snowblower
- Clear snow from the top down
- Avoid using a snowblower on very steep slopes
- Spread abrasive material to prevent slipping on ice
Clearing Your Roof
After a heavy snowfall it’s especially important for low-pitched or flat roofs. The easiest and safest technique for clearing your roof is to hire a professional, but if you plan to do it yourself, be sure to:
- Use a roof rake with a wide and robust blade and extendable handle to clear a build-up of snow from a safe distance.
- Start from the top and work your way down.
- Check for snowdrifts which add uneven weight to the structure and can cause damage.
- To maintain the integrity of the waterproofing membrane, don't remove all of the snow and scrape the membrane in the process.
- If you see large icicles forming, it could indicate poor insulation.
- If you notice significant ice build-up, take action to remove this as soon as possible. If left untreated, the additional weight on the roof may lead to standing water leaking through your roof and walls called ice damming.
- Check for structural concerns such as sagging or creaking - contact a professional immediately
- Put calcium chloride or ice melt in the gutters or on the roof to help prevent ice buildup. Ensure the product you use is safe for roofing materials.
- Ensure sofit and roof vents are clear.
- Install heat cables along the eaves or in the gutters to prevent ice from forming. If there is ice already present, you can place the heat cable along the ice dam to melt it gradually. This method is far safer than manually scraping the ice.
- Regularly inspect and clear drains, gutters and downspouts of ice and debris.
- If you can, use a safety harness attached to a lifeline to protect yourself in the event of a fall.
Did you know? The amount and consistency of snow determines the snow load threshold your flat roof should be able to endure. Age is also an important factor. Commercial buildings 5,000 sq ft or more (per floor) that are more than 10 years old are at a greater risk of collapsing.
*Data based on the snow load of a flat roof built after 1980
*Graphic by Intact Insurance
Hiring a Professional
Hiring a professional is a great way to get the job done safely, efficiently, and correctly; especially if you have a large amount of snow accumulation or ice buildup. Here are some things to consider when hiring a contractor to clear snow and ice from your properties.
- Collect quotes from multiple contractors to ensure you're getting a clear picture of the services you'll be receiving
- Make sure the contractor you hire is a registered business for liability purposes
- Ask your contractor the important questions:
- What is the minimum amount of snowfall before they'll come to clear snow?
- What time of day will they clear the snow?
- Will they charge extra after a certain number of loads?
- Will they also spread salt and clear pathways to doors?
- Will they clear snow from roofs?
- Are they equipped to handle removal of icicles and ice build-up?
- Do they have liability insurance?
Think About Your Insurance
- Damage caused by snow buildup on your roof is usually covered by home insurance, but additional coverage is required for damage caused by water infiltration.
- Liability insurance protects you in case of accidents or damage caused to others on your property, including while clearing snow and ice.
- Some coverages may have limitations on snow-related losses, so make sure you know what your policy includes.
If you have questions about your policy, we're here to help. Contact your broker at info@josslin.com and we will help you understand your liability coverages.
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Key Points of this article were found in the following blog posts from Intact Canada: