Rooftop snow retention 101: Part 1

By Jenny Yu.  

Tackling the safety issues posed by accumulated snow and ice with retention systems 

Despite the "winter wonderland” appeal of a snowy rooftop, there are many dangers to beware of this coming winter season. In a course titled “Rooftop Snow Retention: Solving the Mystery with the Facts,” Mindy Dahlquist, business development manager at TRA Snow & Sun, explained the most common hazards caused when heavy snow moves on a roof.  

1 - Personal injury and death 

This one is obviously the most serious threat. When snow and ice are not properly managed by a snow retention system, heavy sheets can fall on an unsuspecting person, causing harm and potentially taking someone’s life. For this reason alone, it is vital that properties are protected with modern, effective snow retention systems. 

2 – Roof damage from sliding ice and snow 

Snow sliding down a sloped metal roof can sometimes lead to damaged dormers, shingles and roof penetrations like pipes. Furthermore, sliding or frozen snow can cause other parts of a roof to move due to the sheer weight and force, causing more serious structural damage.  

3 – Other property damage 

Snow falling off a roof can also damage property adjacent to a structure, including cars, light fixtures and gas meters, creating the possibility for even more expense and danger for occupants and visitors.  

4 - Premature aging 

“Snow and ice can cause roofs to age prematurely as a result of freeze/thaw cycles,” Mindy stated. “The roofing surface can sustain damage (i.e., asphalt granules break loose) when subjected to repeated expansion and contraction and the force of accumulated snow. Snow and ice sliding off a metal roof can eventually wear off the protective coating as the compacted, crusty snow acts just like sandpaper.” 

5 – Limited or restricted access 

Entrance to buildings and homes can be blocked by snow that falls from a roof, which poses not a mere inconvenience but a serious safety hazard in the case of an emergency. 

6 - Ground snow removal 

Finally, “snow that builds up on the ground may need to be removed,” Mindy noted, “which can be costly, time consuming and labor intensive.” 

Learn more about how TRA Snow and Sun is working to provide effective snow retention systems to keep people and properties safe this winter.