Heavy Snow, Heavier Risks: How to Safely Remove Snow from Your Commercial Roof
Vermont winters bring postcard-worthy snowfall—and serious risks for commercial and flat-roofed buildings. When snow piles up, the weight can threaten your roof’s structural integrity, especially on flat or low-slope systems that don’t easily shed accumulation.
At Rodd Roofing, we often get the same question: "Should I remove the snow myself or call a pro? " The answer depends on snow depth, roof type, and safety concerns. Here’s what you need to know.
Why Snow Load is a Serious Risk in Vermont & New Hampshire
Snow might look light and fluffy, but it gets heavy—fast. Wet, compacted snow can weigh 20-30 pounds per cubic foot, and when ice is added into the mix, that number increases dramatically.
Snow load can cause:
- Sagging or bowing roof decks
- Cracked rafters or support beams
- Leaks from compressed membranes or flashing
- Even a full or partial roof collapse in extreme cases
Flat and low-slope commercial roofs are especially vulnerable because they lack the slope to naturally shed snow.
The Dangers of Improper Snow Removal
While it’s tempting to grab a shovel or roof rake and clear it yourself, doing it wrong can cause more harm than good.
Common DIY mistakes include:
- Scraping too hard: Damages membrane or shingle surfaces
- Puncturing the roof system: Leads to leaks and voided warranties
- Dislodging flashing or drain covers: Increases risk of future water intrusion
- Uneven removal: Causes stress by shifting loads to weak points
Even worse, working on or near a snowy roof is dangerous without the right training and fall protection.
When Can You DIY Snow Removal?
Light, fluffy snow that’s less than 6 inches deep and accessible from the ground with a roof rake can usually be handled safely. Just remember:
- Use a rake with a non-metal head
- Avoid climbing ladders or getting on the roof
- Clear evenly across the roof, not just one spot
Only attempt snow removal if it can be done from the ground.
When to Call in the Roofing Professionals in VT & NH
You should always contact a professional roof snow removal team if:
- Snow depth exceeds 12 inches or is packed and wet
- There’s visible sagging, leaks, or ceiling stains inside
- Your roof has skylights, solar panels, or lots of rooftop equipment
- You have a flat or low-slope roof with known drainage issues
Professional roofing crews use specialized tools and techniques to clear snow safely—without damaging your roofing system or risking injury.
Vermont-Specific Snow Load Facts
- Vermont’s building code requires commercial roofs to handle 50–70 lbs per square foot in snow load depending on location.
- A single storm can exceed this limit when wet snow or rain follows accumulation.
- Freeze-thaw cycles increase the risk of ice dams, ponding, and structural stress.
Stay Safe—and Keep Your Roof Safe, Too
Snow removal is about protecting both people and property. It’s better to be cautious than to risk your roof or your safety.
At Rodd Roofing, we offer snow load assessments, drainage checks, and professional snow removal services for commercial properties across Vermont and New Hampshire.
Stay safe this winter—know when it’s time to call in the pros. Contact Rodd Roofing at (802) 748-4555 to schedule your snow load evaluation or removal service.
