The total snowfall for the month of February in Minneapolis and St. Paul has been 31.7 inches, some areas in the metro have actually seen more! While the snow is pretty, it can be pretty bad for your roof! 

Removing the snow on your roof can help prevent an ice dam from forming. Ice dams form at the edge of the roof; they prevent proper water drainage. If left untreated they can result in a costly home insurance claim.  If the water cannot properly drain, it may make its way back up the roof, entering through the roof shingles. If you have noticed an increase in icicles forming on the roof ridge, you might already have ice dams forming.

 Start by removing snow at least 3-4 feet from the edge of your roof with a roof rake. Be careful not to damage your shingles. If you cannot safely rake the roof from the ground, please call a contractor.

 Check out this quick video from Ask This Old House. It explains the how and why ice dams form, and what to do if you have one.