Discovering the Best Roofs for Heavy Snowfall Areas: Tips straight from a Handyman's Hammer

Hey there, fellow DIY warriors! Any seasoned repairman will tell you the same thing - your roof isn’t just a fancy hat for your house. Nope! It’s a full-fledged, round-the-clock, rain-or-shine bodyguard, especially while dealing with snowfall heavier than an elephant on steroids!

So, without wasting any more time on icy small talk, grab a cup of hot cocoa; it's time to hash out the best roofs for heavy snowfall areas.

Strategy to Snowfall: The Steeper the Better

Living in a winter wonderland doesn't mean your roof has to constantly groan under the weight of tons of snow. Remember, our mission is to ensure that ol’ Jack Frost doesn't lay a finger on your homely castle.

Allow me to let you in on a sturdy secret: The best defense against snowy assassins is a steep sloping roof. When properly installed, it acts like a slippery slide, sending the snow right back where it came from - the ground! Roofs with a pitch (the steepness of a roof) of 4/12 to 9/12 tend to perform like superstars in snowy weather.

Variations of Viking Roofs: Shed & Gable

Straight from the Scandinavian saga, shed and gable roofs are snowfall's dreaded foes. Let's get our hands dirty and dig deeper into both.

The Simple Shed Roof

Shed roofs have a single slope and nothing more, making them an elegant but effective solution. They are ideal for smaller houses or additions like porches and sheds, providing efficient snow shedding capabilities. However, beware DIY knights - they have large surfaces exposed to the elements and may need more frequent weatherproofing and insulation.

The Trustworthy Gable Roof

Meet the gable roof - a classic steep-sloped champion that easily sheds off rain and snow. They have two sloping sides that come together at a ridge, creating two end walls with a triangular extension, known as a gable. The gable roof offers a bonus—the attic space for additional storage or insulation.

Tailor-Made for Snow: The Metal Roofing Mirage

Believe it or not, metal roofs are becoming the newest sensation in snowy areas. Metal roofing not only complements the steep pitching strategy but also pushes the snow shedding capabilities to the max. Thanks to the material's slick surface and optional heating cables, the metal roof can prevent snow build-up and gorgeous yet dangerous ice dams.

The Cool Coating Conundrum

Strategizing against snowfall doesn’t end with just roof shape and material. A cool roof coating adds a layer of protection, reflecting more sunlight and absorbing less heat. As a result, any accumulated snow would melt faster and potentially prevent ice dam formation—a classic winter problem no one wants to deal with.

The Roof Is Not the End: Regular Maintenance

Don't underestimate the value of regular roof maintenance. Remove debris, clean the gutters and eavestroughs, and practice seasonal inspections. Ensure adequately installed insulation and ventilation to prevent condensation and icicle formation—an icy sword hanging over anyone's head.

Remember, when the snow starts falling, you want it fall off your roof and not through it. Being a DIY warrior doesn’t mean you fight all battles yourself. If you find significant issues, it’s safer and wiser to call in professional reinforcements.

Wrapping in Warmth

As we say farewell, remember that choosing the best roof for heavy snowfall areas is similar to donning the right armor in battle. It may be an epic journey that requires valiant efforts, but the warmth of victory (literally) is worth every drop of sweat (or icicle).

Happy roofing, my fellow DIY knights—tackle that snowfall, one shingle at a time!