Iowa hardware stores saw an uptick this week in sales of steel snow shovels, backup generators and ice-melting salt. Depending on your roofline, contractor Cory Sturmann says Iowans might also consider investing in a roof rake.
He says snow build-up can create ice dams as it melts, which can cause water to back up underneath the shingles. Sturmann says: "It’s really sad to see the damage it’s already done. Complete ceilings collapse, hardwood floors ruined and of course furniture, because the water is just running in. I know a guy who just had windows installed and all the windows are bowed because of the substantial amount of water that came in, down the wall."
Sturmann says you don’t need to clear snow off all the way to the peak to prevent water damage. He says, "A good ten to 15 feet from the bottom edge up and even if there’s a little left at the top it’s not going to be as bad as the whole thing." Sturmann says shoveling your roof is -not- recommended as it’s too dangerous. Most roof rakes are about 20-feet in length with aluminum pole sections. Costs run from $25 to $50.