Denver and the Front Range see dramatic freeze–thaw cycles, wind-driven drifts, and the occasional heavy, wet snowfall. Clearing snow and ice the wrong way can damage shingles, void warranties, and create serious safety risks. Here’s how to do it safely—and when to call AC INC. Roofing (Advanced Consulting, Inc.), your licensed and insured, 5.0‑star‑rated roofing contractor serving the Denver metro, Front Range, and Cheyenne, WY.
Why snow and ice removal matters in Colorado
- Freeze–thaw cycles and chinook winds refreeze meltwater into ice dams at eaves.
- Wind can pile snow into heavy drifts in valleys, along dormers, and behind chimneys.
- Excess load risks leaks, fastener pull-out, and even structural stress—especially on low-slope and older roofs.
When should you remove roof snow?
Look for these cues instead of relying on exact inches or weights (which vary by roof and snow density):
– Ice dams or icicles forming at the eaves or gutters
– Significant drifting, especially on one side of the roof
– Doors sticking, new ceiling cracks, or audible creaking in severe events
– Flat or low-slope roofs where drains/scuppers are partially blocked
If you see interior leaks, water stains, or bowing ceiling drywall, evacuate the area beneath and call a professional immediately.
Safety first: protect people and your roof
- Stay off the roof when possible. Work from the ground with a long, non-abrasive roof rake.
- Keep clear of overhead lines and falling snow/ice zones. Use a spotter.
- If a ladder is necessary, place it on solid footing, secure the top, and maintain three points of contact. Avoid working alone.
- Never chip ice directly on shingles or membranes; you’ll cause damage.
Tools and prep for roof-friendly clearing
- Telescoping roof rake with a plastic/foam head or roll-guard edge
- Plastic snow pusher (for accessible low areas only)
- Calcium chloride “socks” (for ice-dam channels); avoid rock salt (sodium chloride)
- Non-marking boots, eye protection, insulated gloves
- Tarps or plywood to shield shrubs and walkways from falling snow/ice
Step-by-step: removing snow safely
- Start from the ground. Pull snow down with a roof rake from the eave upward in small sections.
- Leave a thin protective layer (about 2–3 inches) over shingles to prevent granule loss.
- Work symmetrically to avoid unbalanced loads—alternate sides on gable roofs.
- Clear valleys, around skylights, and leeward drifts where loads concentrate.
- Finish by opening gutters and downspouts so meltwater can drain.
If you must access a low area, use fall protection and plastic tools only. Avoid piling snow in one spot or against chimneys/parapets.
Handling ice dams without harming shingles
- Identify: A ridge of ice at the eaves with water or wet ceilings behind it is a classic ice dam.
- Temporary relief: Place calcium chloride in permeable fabric “socks” and lay them perpendicular to the eave to create melt channels. Protect landscaping below.
- Do not: Hack, pry, or use metal tools, torches, or pressure washers on ice.
- Long-term prevention: Improve attic insulation and air sealing, verify balanced ventilation (intake at soffits, exhaust at ridge), and ensure gutters/downspouts are clear. AC INC. Roofing can evaluate your roof system, ventilation, and underlayments during a free inspection by our HAAG‑certified inspectors.
Flat and low-slope roofs (TPO, EPDM, Modified Bitumen)
- Priority is drainage. Open primary drains and scuppers first; remove snow around them to reduce ponding.
- Use plastic push shovels or foam rakes; leave a thin protective layer over the membrane.
- Mark and avoid hazards like skylights and equipment curbs.
- Redistribute or remove large drifts—don’t create heavy piles near parapets or over spans.
- Maintain a two-person crew with fall protection; consider professional assistance. AC INC. Roofing services commercial roofs across the Denver metro and Front Range and can inspect TPO, EPDM, Modified Bitumen, and coated systems.
What not to do
- Don’t use rock salt (sodium chloride); it can corrode metal and harm vegetation.
- Don’t chip or pry ice on shingles or membranes.
- Don’t run heat guns or torches on roofing materials.
- Don’t walk steep or icy roofs without fall protection.
- Don’t clear only one side of a gable roof—avoid unbalanced loads.
Prevent problems before the next storm
- Schedule a pre- and post-storm roof check. AC INC. Roofing offers free inspections by Master HAAG‑certified inspectors with thorough photo documentation.
- Clean gutters and confirm downspouts discharge away from the foundation.
- Improve attic air sealing and insulation; verify continuous soffit and ridge ventilation.
- For reroofs, ask about upgraded ice and water shield, and manufacturer-backed systems. As an Atlas Pro+ Platinum Certified and GAF Certified contractor, AC INC. Roofing can provide robust system and extended warranty options.
- Consider resilient assemblies certified through Fortified Roofing Solutions for enhanced severe-weather performance.
After a storm: quick self-check
- Peek in the attic for active drips, frosty sheathing, or wet insulation.
- Inspect ceilings, exterior walls, and around skylights for new stains.
- Photograph any issues and note storm dates—useful for insurance. AC INC. Roofing specializes in storm-damage evaluation and provides insurance claims support when damage is present.
Why homeowners and property managers choose AC INC. Roofing
- Licensed and insured; 5.0-star Google rating
- Master HAAG Certification (Colorado’s first to reach Master level)
- Atlas Pro+ Platinum Certified and GAF Certified contractor
- Directorii-certified (backed by up to $20,000 customer guarantee)
- Expert in residential and commercial roofing, storm restoration, inspections, repairs, replacements, roof rejuvenation, siding and gutters, concrete & asphalt sealing
- Serving the Denver metro, Front Range, and Cheyenne, WY from our Denver office at 6145 Broadway, Suite 25, Denver, CO 80216
Need help clearing snow safely, addressing ice dams, or checking for hidden damage after a storm? Our team is ready to help with timely inspections and repairs.