Is That Snow on Your Roof Dangerous? Expert Safety Guide

When Does “Winter Wonderland” Become “Roof Collapse”?

In Central Illinois, we don’t just get snow; we get heavy snow.

A fresh dusting is harmless, but when January storms bring wet, heavy slush followed by a deep freeze, the weight on your roof can skyrocket.

Homeowners often ask us: “How much snow is too much?” and “Should I climb up there and shovel it?”

This guide covers the structural dangers of snow on roof systems, how to spot the warning signs of collapse, and the only safe ways to remove it.

The Science of Snow Load (Simplified)

Not all snow weighs the same. In Peoria, we often deal with “wet concrete” snow, which is significantly heavier than the fluffy powder found in the Rockies.

The Rule of Thumb: Most residential roofs in Illinois are designed to handle about 20 pounds per square foot.

• 4 feet of fresh powder = Safe.

• 2 feet of packed snow = Caution.

• 6 inches of ice/wet slush = Danger Zone.

Warning Signs of Structural Stress

You don’t need a scale to know if your roof is struggling. Your house will speak to you. If you have heavy snow on roof areas, go inside and look for these distress signals:

1. New Cracks: Look for hairline cracks appearing in the drywall above windows or door frames.

2. Sticking Doors: If interior doors suddenly won’t close or are rubbing against the frame, the header is bowing under the weight.

3. Strange Noises: Creaking, popping, or groaning sounds coming from the ceiling are immediate red flags.

4. Ceiling Sag: visually inspect your ceiling. If you see a dip near the center of the room, evacuate the area and call a professional immediately.

The “Ice Dam” Connection

Heavy snow often leads to Ice Dams. This happens when heat escapes your attic, melts the snow, and the water refreezes at the gutters.

• The Result: Water backs up under your shingles and leaks into your walls.

• The Fix: The best prevention is not shoveling—it is upgrading your [roof insulation] to stop the heat loss in the first place.

How to Safely Remove Snow (And What to Avoid)

Every year, emergency rooms in Illinois see homeowners injured falling off ladders in winter. Please do not climb on your roof in icy conditions.

The Safe Method: Roof Raking

If you have a single-story home, use a Roof Rake with a telescoping handle.

• Stand on the ground.

• Pull the snow down gently.

• Leave 2 inches: Do not scrape down to the bare shingle. You risk cracking the frozen asphalt, which will cause leaks when it thaws.

The Unsafe Methods (Avoid These)

• NO Salt Discs: tossing “pucks” of salt on your roof can discolor shingles and kill the grass where the runoff lands.

• NO Shovels: Metal shovels will slice right through cold, brittle shingles.

• NO Pressure Washers: Never use hot water to melt snow; it will turn into a sheet of ice instantly.

When to Call a Professional

If you have a two-story home, or if the snow has turned to hard ice, do not attempt to remove it yourself.

At SNS Roofing, we offer professional storm damage and snow removal services. We have the safety harnesses and steam equipment necessary to clear your roof without damaging the shingles.

Worried about the weight above your head?

Contact SNS Roofing for an assessment or emergency snow removal service.