How to Safely Clear Snow from Your Roof

Don’t let snow build up

Don’t wait until your roof is straining under the weight of snow to clear it. The less snow there is to remove, the less you’ll need to exert yourself. Plus, this way it won’t take as long, and there will be a lower risk of accidents. Clearing your roof on a regular basis is a good way to prevent mishaps.

Pick the right time

Before you head out to clear the snow off your roof, check the weather. Avoid intense cold and heavy winds, which increase the risk of frostbite, and pay attention to warm spells, which can turn snow into ice and cause falls or even cuts.

Teamwork is safe work

Removing snow from your roof in the company of others is a much better idea than going at it alone. Not only is it faster, but it is also much safer. For example, your partner can hold the ladder in place if you need to climb up to the roof, or quickly come to your aid if there is an accident.

Choose the best tools for the job

Don’t underestimate how much of a difference the right tool can make! Forget metal shovels and scrapers—they could not only damage your roof covering, but also potentially result in serious injury. Instead, choose accessories that are specially designed for clearing roofs, like the SnowPeeler telescopic snow rake. It’s both safer and faster!

Stretch beforehand

Like with any physical activity, it’s important to stretch before clearing snow. It’s also a good idea to talk a short walk or do a quick warm-up to gradually get your blood pumping and your heart rate up. That way, you’ll be extra prepared for physical exertion, and your back and muscles will thank you later. Check out our blog post for more advice on removing snow from your roof.

Establish a safety buffer

Before you get started, identify where the snow will be landing, then set a perimeter, making sure to keep other people outside of it. You can mark out the perimeter with high-visibility rope.

Work from the ground if you can

To prevent falls, the Régie du bâtiment recommends working from the ground as much as possible. The PolarMade telescopic snow rake is equipped with a sharp blade that slices through snow, using gravity to clear it onto the robust snow slide. Don’t work up too much of a sweat, the SnowPeeler’s got your back!

Removing snow from your roof

If you absolutely have to climb up on your roof, make sure to safely strap yourself in with a harness that’s fastened around your waist and connected to a sturdy anchor point. The PolarMade snow rake is designed for easy reverse use, so you can slide the snow right off the roof. If you’re using a shovel, you should push the snow away from you, rather than scooping it up.

Get our tips on how to adequately clear snow from your roof here.