Heavy snow on the roof, creaking

Heavy snow on the roof adds weight and feeds ice dams. A roof built to current Minnesota code is designed for the county's snow load, 50 or 60 pounds per square foot. If you hear creaking or see sagging, stay out from under that area and have the snow removed by a professional.

Updated 2026-11-13

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Roof Snow Removal

Taking snow off the roof removes one of the things an ice dam needs and lightens the load. A roof rake works from the ground but can damage shingles, University of Minnesota Extension notes. The state energy office suggests hiring a professional when the job needs a ladder or someone on the roof.

127 confirmed in Minnesota

What to do today

Rake the lower roof from the ground if it is safe; a rake can damage shingles, so go gently.
Keep people and cars away from where snow and ice will fall.
Do not climb onto the roof; the state energy office suggests a professional when a ladder or the roof is needed.
If you want the structure checked, a professional engineer can evaluate it.

When it is an emergency

Sagging ceilings, cracking sounds or doors that suddenly stick under a heavy load are signs to leave that part of the house and call for help right away.

Sources

Minnesota Rules 1303.1700, ground snow load (checked 2026-11-13)
University of Minnesota Extension: dealing with and preventing ice dams (checked 2026-11-13)
Minnesota Department of Commerce: ice dam tips (checked 2026-11-13)

Frequently asked questions

Is my roof going to collapse under the snow?

A roof built to current Minnesota code is designed for the county's snow load. If you hear creaking or see sagging, stay out of that area and call a professional; a professional engineer can evaluate the structure.

How to get a quote

Pick a business from the list and use the contact form or phone number on its own website. Asking two or three lets you compare. Cold Home Guide does not take quote requests.