Snow Load Concerns Ice Dam Prevention Proper Snow Removal Tools

Download the Glidden Winter Maintenance pdf
A Discussion of Rain and Snow Loads in Regards to Steel Structures from Maine Building Guide
A Guide to Protecting Your Roof From a Snow-Related Failure from Gale Engineers and Planners

Glidden Roofing offers year round or seasonal winter maintenance programs which help prolong the life of your commercial roof. Flat roof systems may accumulate excessive amounts of snow during Maine’s long winters. Excessive snow creates extra weight on your roof and building deck, and can compromise the integrity of the structure. Building codes have changed over the years and some older buildings are not built to accommodate this added snow weight, making it even more important to remediate snow build-up on roofs. The added weight from excessive snow accumulation can cause a roof to collapse, as seen on a large distribution center last year.

Ice Dams are another issue of concern on roofs. Ice Dams are caused by uneven roof temperatures, where melting and refreezing takes place. Ice Dams can cause interior leaks and extensive damage to roofs, gutters, attics and walls of a building.

Excessive snow loads and Ice Dams can lead to expensive roof repairs and  problems no owner wants to deal with.

Damage may also occur on a roof if inadequate or inappropriate tools are used to remove snow and ice. Hammers, axes and landscaping rakes can damage a roof. Do not take the chance. Use an expert using professional tools to do the job correctly.