Commercial Roof Snow Removal: What Property Managers Need to Know

Heavy snow is more than a winter nuisance—it’s a serious threat to commercial roofs.

If you own or manage a building in Colorado or Georgia's snowy regions, you’ve likely seen the risks: sagging structures, dangerous ice dams, and emergency leaks that cost thousands to fix.

Removing snow properly—and on time—isn’t just smart. It’s essential.

Why Is Commercial Roof Snow Removal So Important?

1. Prevents Structural Damage
Commercial roofs are often flat or low-sloped. That means snow piles up fast and doesn’t slide off like it might on a steeper residential roof. The added weight can strain the structure and lead to:

• Roof collapse

• Cracks in the decking

• Damaged insulation and membrane

2. Stops Ice Dams from Forming
Melting snow refreezes at the edges, creating ice dams. These block drainage and force water back under the roof system—damaging insulation, ceilings, and walls.

3. Protects Your Warranty
Most commercial roofing warranties have specific guidelines about snow load limits and proper maintenance. Ignoring these can void your warranty when you need it most.

4. Keeps People Safe
Overloaded roofs, ice buildup, and icicles pose serious liability risks—especially in high-traffic entry areas.

How Much Snow Is Too Much?

The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends clearing snow when:

• Snow depth exceeds 6 inches, especially if it's wet and heavy

• Ice dams start forming near eaves or drains

• There's ponding water or visible sagging

Professional Snow Removal vs. DIY

Removing snow from a commercial roof is not a DIY job. It requires the right tools, safety training, and experience with commercial roofing systems.

What professionals bring:

• OSHA-compliant fall protection

• Non-damaging tools that won’t puncture membranes

• Knowledge of drainage paths and hidden hazards

• Real-time monitoring of snow load and melt patterns

At Roof Nuts CO and Roof Nuts GA, our crews are trained to clear snow without damaging your roof system. Whether it's TPO, EPDM, metal, or modified bitumen, we remove the snow and leave your roof ready for the next storm.

FAQs About Commercial Roof Snow Removal

How often should I remove snow from my commercial roof?

After every significant snowfall—typically anything over 6 inches. It's also smart to monitor ice buildup near drains and scuppers.

Will snow damage my flat roof?

Yes. Flat roofs are especially vulnerable to excessive snow load and poor drainage. Left unchecked, it can lead to structural damage or leaks.

Can I use salt or chemicals to melt snow on my roof?

No. De-icing chemicals can damage membranes and flashing. Use mechanical removal methods or consult with a roofing professional.

Book Commercial Snow Removal in Colorado or Georgia

Don’t wait until there’s water pouring into your break room. Stay ahead of snow damage with proactive service from your local roofing experts.

In Colorado?
Call Roof Nuts CO at 303-276-2403 or visit RoofNutsCO.com