You’re snuggled into the corner of the couch. A fluffy blanket warmly weighs you down as you sip a steaming mug of cocoa. Fresh flakes lazily float to the ground outside. All is calm, but then—crash! A colossal sheet of snow and ice plummets into your bushes just out the window.
Sound dramatic? We know. But it happens way more than you’d think. And trust us—it’s scary, not just for you but for your roof, too.
So how can you save yourself from the jumpscare of an avalanche and save your roof from the stress of too much snow? Snow removal is essential for the safety and general upkeep of your property.
And while DIY-ing snow removal might feel heroic, it’s risky, time-consuming, back-breaking work. Hiring roof snow and ice removal contractors instead can save you time and energy and medical bills.
But it’s no good to hire just any old roof snow removal company. Here are five tips to help you pick a company to save the day—and your roof.
1. Experience in Snow Removal
You want to hire contractors who aren’t just your average plowing service. Instead, make sure the company you pick specializes in roof snow removal, not just general snow plowing. That’s because the techniques for safely clearing snow from a roof are very different from those used for driveways or sidewalks.
Clearing roof snow requires extra caution. Techniques like roof rakes and steaming systems address the specific challenges of clearing snow from roofs—challenges like height, weight stress, and protecting the roofing materials that don’t apply to driveways or sidewalks.
A contractor with experience can remove snow without damaging your roof or causing other hazards like falling ice. No snow removal rookie should be working on your roof—unless you’re hoping to star in a winter disaster movie.
2. Proper Equipment
As disappointing as it may be, big shovels aren’t enough to safely remove all the snow or ice from your roof. The best contractors will be equipped with the right tools for the job—not ice picks but tools without sharp edges.
Using the wrong equipment can easily damage your roof or lead to serious injury. Sharp tools can scrape or puncture the shingles or membrane, leaving the roof vulnerable to leaks. Proper tools and techniques are integral to protecting both the roof and the person clearing it.
So, your big, brand-new shovel might work wonders on your sidewalk, but it’s not exactly the right tool for rooftop removal. That’s where the pros come in—only give the green light to a company that can show you their artillery of safe removal tools.
3. Insurance and Liability Coverage
Look—accidents happen. And when they do, it’s crucial that you’re covered. No one wants to pay for someone else’s mistake.
So, the roof snow removal company should be insured with proper liability coverage in case something goes wrong, like damaging your roof or property in the process of clearing snow or ice. It may be because of an equipment malfunction or particularly brittle shingles that crack or loosen easily.
Whatever it is, residential and commercial roof snow removal is a risky business, so make sure the company will cover any mishaps. After all, a snow removal company without insurance is like a roof without shingles—simply lacking the essentials.
4. Safety Protocols
Your roof in winter is a slippery slope—literally. Safety is the main reason to call in the pros. Climbing onto a slippery, snow-covered roof without training is a recipe for disaster. No one wants to spend their winter days in a cast, gazing longingly at the snow they meant to clear.
You can help make sure that doesn’t happen on your property by asking the companies you’re considering about their safety procedures to protect workers and prevent accidents.
It’s dangerous work, so you want a company that prioritizes safety for the crew and your property when working on your roof.
5. Reputation and Reviews
The proof is in the pudding—or, in this case, the feedback. Consider getting a recommendation from a trusted neighbor or friend. Don’t just ask who they use, but also get the details—what makes that roofing company so great?
Reading reviews can help you make sure the company has a solid reputation for reliability and quality service. If they’re proud of their work, they’ll probably be happy to share testimonials from satisfied customers.
If you don’t find many positives about the company, go ahead and keep searching for “rooftop snow removal near me.” Take the reviewers’ word for it.
Take the First Step Today
The right roof snow removal service has it all: plenty of experience, the necessary equipment, insurance, safety measures in place, and the ratings to back them up.
So don’t ruin your roof or life by hiring just anyone for the job. Ready to tackle that snow on your roof safely? BigHorn Roofing stands ready to clear your roof with speed and safety. Call us today for a quote and to ensure your roof is in expert hands.
Infographic
Removing snow from your roof may seem heroic, but it can be risky and exhausting. Hiring professional snow and ice removal contractors can save you time and prevent injuries. This infographic provides five tips to help you select a reliable contractor to protect your roof and safety.
