Lake-Effect Snow and Your Roof
Lake-effect snowstorms are common in Southwest Michigan, and Kalamazoo is known for heavy snow even into April. Most roofs handle it, but some situations need attention.
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Roofs are built to carry snow. A typical winter's snow isn't a problem for a sound roof.
Heavy, wet snow
Late-season snow is often wet and heavy. Several storms in a row without a melt add up.
Warning signs
Sagging rooflines, cracks in interior walls or ceilings, doors that suddenly stick upstairs or creaking sounds are reasons to get help.
Flat and low-slope roofs
Garages, porches and additions with low slopes hold more snow and drift.
Drifts
Wind piles snow against walls and in valleys, creating uneven loads.
Snow removal
Use a roof rake from the ground. For heavy loads, hire a professional; never climb a snowy roof.
After the melt
Check for damaged shingles and gutters once the snow is gone.
Older buildings
Barns and older garages may not be built to modern standards; keep an eye on them.
More help
See roof inspections.
Know your roof
Simple gable roofs shed snow fairly evenly. Roofs with valleys, dormers and lower roofs below upper ones collect drifts and sliding snow in specific spots, which is where problems start.
Sliding snow
Snow sliding off a steep or metal upper roof can land on a lower porch or garage roof, adding a sudden heavy load. Keep an eye on those lower roofs after big storms.
Vents and chimneys
Heavy snow can bury plumbing vents and high-efficiency furnace vents. Keep any vents you can see from the ground clear, and call a roofer if roof vents are buried.
Gutters
Heavy snow and ice can pull gutters loose. Check them after the snow melts.
More roofing guides
Roof trouble in the Kalamazoo area?
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