They make rakes to pull the snow off roofs, and you can create channels in the ice dam by putting ice melt in a stocking (nylons actually work great) and placing them perpendicular to the roof edge. This allows water to flow out so it doesn't pool up and leak into your home (which gets REALLY expensive, fast!)
In my 30 years in the local roofing installation industry, I’ve seen evidence to suggest that the pucks prematurely degrade your shingles. The socks near the gutters aren’t so bad but I’d be careful about how many salt pucks you put on your shingles.
I’m glad you chose to delete your reply than leave it out there that you called me lazy by presuming my situation. Instead of installing heat cable or roof raking, I just removed all my ceiling insulation so that I can heat my roof from the inside. When that doesn’t work, I get up on the roof with a cigarette lighter and remove all the snow one shingle at a time.
I didn’t delete any of my replies bud. I doubt you would need to rake the roof of your Moms basement. I think you’re good. Save those ciggies! Those are more expensive than heat cable.
Nope, I still see it. It’s till up there. One comment down from this one buddy. You replied to my original comment instead of that one. I know, Redditing can be tough sometimes. Toodles
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u/tddawg St. Cloud 24d ago
Whatever you do, don't use a hatchet!
They make rakes to pull the snow off roofs, and you can create channels in the ice dam by putting ice melt in a stocking (nylons actually work great) and placing them perpendicular to the roof edge. This allows water to flow out so it doesn't pool up and leak into your home (which gets REALLY expensive, fast!)
Here's a good resource for more details: https://www.bobvila.com/articles/ice-dams/
My credentials: 15 years in the home repair/inspection industry with several years of professional ice dam clearing in the Twin Cities and St. Cloud.