Roof raking is the process of removing snow and from a roofs eaves using a long-handled snow rake. Removing this snow allows for water drainage eliminating the risk of Ice Dams. Safe Yard uses a specialized soft touch roof rake that negates damages caused by traditional roof rakes.

The intent of roof raking is to:

• Prevent Ice Dams – when melting snow refreezes at the roof’s eaves it causes water to back up under the shingles. This can lead to interior leaks and roof/gutter damage. Once ice dams are formed, removal can costs thousands.
• Reduce Stress on The Roof – Excessive snow and ice buildup add a lot of weight to your roof. Potentially causing damage.
• Prevent Ice Avalanches – Long icicles or chunks of snow and ice sliding off the roof can be hazardous.
• Allow Proper Drainage – Clearing snow and ice helps melting snow drain off the roof instead of backing up.
  
  

Ice dams are formed when snow melt refreezes at the eaves (gutters) and in the valleys. Causes for snow melt can be heat loss from the house, solar radiation (sun’s rays) and temperature fluctuations above and below freezing. The cycles of melting and freezing cause a build up or DAM.

You should rake your roof after every 6 inches of snow, or more often if you’re concerned about ice dams or a roof collapse. Safe Yard offers seasonal contracts at a discount for those with ice dam prone roofs.

Safe Yard Roof Raking uses specialized roof raking equipment offering a soft touch no scratch solution for your roof raking needs.

While it’s helpful to clear snow as far up the roof as possible, its not needed to clear it all the way to the top. It is reccomended to clear 4-6 feet from the roofs eaves. Remember, ice dams will typically occur near the eave of the rooftop, especially on overhangs areas.