Heavy snow could cause roofs to collapse – KXLY Spokane

Heavy snow could cause roofs to collapse

SPOKANE, Wash. - It seems that just about everyone is ready for spring, but the snow continues to pile up.

This has been a very interesting winter for us. Lots of snowpack, lots of high moisture resulting in a really dangerous situation with people's roofs, Assistant Fire Chief Brian Schaeffer said.

Snow-related roof collapses are nothing new around here. Businesses and homes are covered in snow, so a roof collapse is a real possibility, especially after the wet, heavy snowfall we saw last weekend.

The snow is putting extra weight, pressure and stress on roofs. We saw firsthand the damage a collapse can cause. Nearly 20 cars were damaged Saturday at the Edgewater Village Condos in Spokane when a carport came crashing down. The thick layer of snow on top of it leads residents to think snow is to blame.

The Spokane Fire Department has seen an uptick in calls related to roof collapse this past week.

We have seen an increase, but fortunately not any serious injuries. That's what we're trying to avoid, Schaeffer said.

KXLY4 News asked a roofing company what homeowners should do about snow on their homes. The short answer is nothing.

I would seek out a licensed, bonded, insured contractor to go up on a roof. It can be very dangerous, Marshall Huff, Heritage Roofing, said.

Huff says it's best to stay on the ground. Grab a roof rake to clear off the snow, but be aware of powerlines and gas and electric meters. He adds if you have a foot or more of snow piling up, it's best to leave it to the professionals.

Especially if you start seeing interior damage, water spots showing up on your ceiling, that's really the time to give us a call, Huff said.

Ice dams can also be a heavy burden. They form the same way as icicles, but can tear off gutters, loosen shingles and cause water to seep through your roof. If you do notice frosty buildup, don't hesitate to call a roofing company.

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Heavy snow could cause roofs to collapse - KXLY Spokane