HENRICO COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — With the amount of snow we’ve seen in Central Virginia, stress on roof tops can be tremendous.
One square foot of snow accumulation on a roof can weigh as much as 21 pounds per square foot. On a one thousand square foot house, this can be as much as 12 tons of extra weight.
Some warning signs that a roof may be stressed:
- Sagging structural members of the home
- Popping or cracking sounds heard
- Doors that will no longer open
- Newly appearing cracks in walls
If you see or hear warning signs, contact a professional structural engineer should be contacted. If significant signs are apparent, exit the house and call 911.
Snow removal from a roof is very hazardous and should only be attempted by a licensed roofing professional.
What you can do:
- While clearing snow from walks and driveways, make sure to clear snow from around the downspouts and drains so snow can melt and flow away from the house.
- From the ground, clear gutters with long handled brush. Watch for falling ice, snow, or icicles.
- Remember to clear snow away from dryer vents so they can function properly and not become a fire hazard themselves.
Information provided by Henrico Fire officials.
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