fbpx

In Buffalo, the Snow Came Down – And So Did the Roofs

Every year, people in the Northeast wonder if the upcoming winter will be especially harsh and destructive. Well in 2014, people in some areas didn’t have to wait long to learn the answer.

Colossal Snowstorm Slams New York

Throughout the week before Thanksgiving, a massive snowstorm struck parts of upstate New York. The lake-effect storm began on Monday, November 17th and continued throughout the week. Over seven feet of snow fell in some areas in and around Buffalo, bringing activity to a standstill, burying people in their homes (and cars), and even forcing the relocation of a Buffalo Bills game to Detroit.

Roofs
Old Man Winter had a big party in Buffalo last month.

When it was all over, the storm had caused about $46 million in damages and claimed 14 lives. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that numerous areas qualified for emergency federal aid. According to reports, the weight of the accumulated snow destroyed 38 structures and caused roof damage to another 370 buildings.

Heavy Snow Can Cause Roofs to Collapse

In theory, roofs on homes in these areas are built to withstand even the most devastating snowstorms. But for some structures that had already sustained previous roof damage or had not seen their roofs replaced for decades, the snowfall proved to be too much. Also, strong winds blew additional snow from the ground onto the roofs and formed snowdrifts, which caused even more stress on some roofs. The end result was often a partially or completely collapsed roof.

How to Properly Remove Roof Snow

Obviously, one of the first steps to take after a heavy snowstorm is to remove some or all of the snow from your home’s roof. The longer it sits on your roof, the greater the odds are that its weight will lead to roof damage. Here are some roof snow removal tips:

  1. Avoid standing on a ladder to clean the roof if at all possible. Ice buildup on the rungs and pavement can cause you to lose your balance and fall.
  2. Try not to stand on your roof, because your additional weight may put more stress on your roof’s support system.
  3. Use a quality snow rake if your roof is pitched. Plastic is better, since metal may conduct electricity and cause damage.
  4. Start by sweeping a few feet from the roof’s edge, then work your way up toward its peak.
  5. Avoid shingle damage by shaving off all but a few inches of the snowpack.
  6. Exercise caution in removing large icicles so that you don’t damage your eaves or gutters.
  7. Refrain from using heat guns, blow torches, or other electrical or open-flame devices to get rid of snow. That’s how winter house fires get started.
Roofs
It may take a while, but it’s important that you clean off your roof as thoroughly as possible.

Beware of Snow-Caused Roof Damage

Granted, snow events of this caliber don’t come along all that often. But when your home is enveloped by snow after a storm, it’s vital that you look for signs of damage to your roof. Better yet, you should inspect your roof for problems before the snow starts coming down on your home.

Some indications of roof damage include:

  • Substantial leaks in your roof
  • Visible sagging in parts of your roof
  • Ripples or bends in roof supports
  • Split or cracked wood joists or supports
  • Cracks in brick, walls, or other masonry
  • Popping, creaking, or cracking sounds around your home
  • Windows or doors that are hard to open
  • Doors that pop open on their own accord
  • Screws or nails that have been sheared off from metal frames
  • Ceiling-attached conduit or utility pipes that are bowed
Roofs
Or feeling direct sunlight while you’re sitting in your living room. That’s a big clue, too.

If you notice some of these signs, you should probably contact a roofing professional immediately. If you discover that you need to put a new roof on your home, Harry Helmet has over 30 years of experience in roof replacements in the Northeast. For a free no-obligation estimate, you can call Harry Helmet at 1-888-5-HELMET or fill out this online form to schedule an appointment.

Written by Del Thebaud

Year-End Sale!
20% OFF + $150 Bonus
on Gutter Helmet | NO money down + NO interest up to 2 years† | Hurry, Offer Ends 12/31/2023
I authorize Lednor Home Solutions to contact me about our products via phone, email, or text. You also understand we use an autodialing phone system, and my consent is not required to obtain a free estimate - I can call 888-543-5638 instead. We will never share your personal information with 3rd parties for marketing purposes or spam you. You can opt out at any time. Message/data rates apply. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Terms | Privacy Policy

REVIEWS

1 Million+ Satisfied Customers Nationwide

I recently had the Gutter Helmet by Harry Helmet installed on my house. It not only looks amazing, but the guys arrived on time, were professional and efficiently got the job done. I am very satisfied with Gutter Helmet's attention to detail and fulfilling their work as promised. I will definitely tell my neighbors about the Gutter Helmet.
StarStarStarStarStar
I have had Gutter Helmets for 20 years. In all that time I've never had a problem until recently a bird's nest found its way into one of my gutters. The installer who came to replace the product was the same installer from 20 years earlier. Now that's impressive. Everyone at Gutter Helmet inclusive of the office staff were professional and a pleasure to work with.
StarStarStarStarStar
Gutter Helmet by Harry Helmet just replaced our roof and we could not be more satisfied. The crew showed up early, worked all day and stayed late, were professional and caring regarding the project and the surrounding impact it had on our property and home. They completed the roof quickly and it looks simply amazing!
StarStarStarStarStar
VERY happy with our entire experience adding Gutter Helmet by Harry Helmet to our house. Installing this was a great value for us. The gutters are working perfectly in heavy downpours and with year-long leaves and debris coming down from our river birches. Terrific customer service and a first class product.
StarStarStarStarStar
We needed our roof repaired due to wind damage. After several quotes, Gutter Helmet was the only company that went into our attic to look and see if more damage had occurred. If it wasn't for them taking the extra time to look at everything, we would have had rotting wood under our new roof. They were very professional and gave a fair quote.
StarStarStarStarStar
We just had Gutter Helmet installed on our gutters and couldn't be happier. They provided us with useful information about Gutter Helmet and cleaned up everything, leaving no mess behind. We definitely recommend Gutter Helmet to anyone considering this product.
StarStarStarStarStar

20% Off + $150 Holiday Bonus

We work hard with each manufacturer to offer our customers the best promotions monthly.

Find a Location

Serving a Location Near You

Careers

Join the Lednor Home Solutions Family

We're seeking fun, outgoing, and confident individuals who enjoy winning to join our team. Lednor Home Solutions is an equal opportunity employer and we operate a safety first & drug-free workplace focused on employee safety. Great pay and benefits, apply today!