Rooftop Snow Removal
in Chicagoland
(708) 290-8500Serving Tinley Park, Orland Park, Frankfort, Oak Lawn & 40+ suburbs. 20+ years experience. Free estimates.
About Rooftop Snow Removal
Rooftop snow removal in Chicagoland prevents structural damage and ice dam formation during our heavy winters. Lake-effect snow dumps 30-40 inches annually on Orland Park, Tinley Park, and the south suburbs -sometimes 12 inches in a single storm. Flat roofs and low-slope commercial buildings are especially vulnerable.
We remove snow from roofs when accumulation threatens structural limits or when ice dam conditions develop. Professional removal prevents damage that costs far more than the service itself.
When to Remove Snow:
Flat Roofs: Most flat commercial roofs are engineered for 20-30 pounds per square foot of snow load. Wet, heavy snow weighs roughly 20 lbs/cu ft; dry powder weighs 7 lbs/cu ft. When accumulation exceeds 12 inches of wet snow or 24 inches of dry snow, removal becomes prudent.
Low-Slope Roofs: Residential additions, sunroom roofs, and porch roofs with 2:12 or 3:12 slopes accumulate snow that steeper pitches shed. These areas often lack the engineering for heavy loads.
Ice Dam Conditions: When snow sits on a roof above a heated space, heat loss melts bottom layers. Meltwater runs to cold eaves and refreezes, building ice dams that force water under shingles. We remove the snow source to stop the process.
Our Snow Removal Process:
1. Assessment: We determine current accumulation, roof type, access points, and any visible distress (sagging, creaking, water infiltration).
2. Safe Access: We use extension ladders, scaffolding, or boom lifts depending on building height and pitch. Workers wear fall protection.
3. Systematic Removal: For flat roofs, we shovel or push snow off edges, working from the perimeter inward. We leave 1-2 inches to protect the membrane -scraping to bare membrane risks damage.
4. Steep Roof Removal: On pitched roofs, we use roof rakes from the ground or work from ladders at eaves. On very steep pitches, we work from above with harnesses.
5. Ice Dam Treatment: When ice dams exist, we cut channels through the ice to allow trapped water to drain, then remove the snow feeding the dam. For stubborn ice, we use low-pressure steam.
Commercial Snow Removal:
Warehouse roofs, retail buildings, strip malls, and industrial facilities throughout Joliet, Bolingbrook, and the I-55 corridor often require snow removal after major storms. We mobilize crews quickly -snow on a flat commercial roof becomes an emergency.
We maintain ongoing snow removal contracts with several property managers. When forecasts predict heavy accumulation, we schedule crews in advance.
Areas We Serve:: We remove rooftop snow throughout Orland Park, Tinley Park, Frankfort, Mokena, New Lenox, Joliet, Bolingbrook, Oak Lawn, Palos Heights, Homewood, Matteson, and north through Naperville, Downers Grove, and Westmont.
Pricing:: Residential snow removal starts at $350-500 depending on roof size and access. Commercial buildings are quoted based on square footage and height. Emergency service during active storms carries a premium.
What's Included
Why Choose Us for Rooftop Snow Removal?
With 20+ years of experience and 400+ completed projects, we have the expertise to handle any rooftop snow removal project. Our licensed roofing professionals provide quality workmanship backed by our satisfaction guarantee.
Frequently Asked Questions
QHow much snow is too much for my roof?
For most residential roofs, 12+ inches of wet snow or 24+ inches of dry powder warrants attention. Flat roofs and low-slope areas need removal sooner. Listen for creaking or watch for sagging.
QHow much does roof snow removal cost?
Residential snow removal starts at $350-500. Commercial buildings are quoted by square footage. Emergency service during storms costs more due to conditions and crew availability.
QDo you remove ice dams?
Yes. We remove the snow feeding ice dams, cut drainage channels through the ice, and use low-pressure steam for stubborn buildup. Steaming is safer than chipping.
QCan I remove snow myself with a roof rake?
Roof rakes work for single-story eaves you can reach from the ground. Never walk on a snowy or icy roof. Never use a shovel from a ladder. Professional removal is safer for high or multi-story homes.
QWhy does my attic get water during snow melt?
Ice dams form when heat escaping through your roof melts snow that refreezes at cold eaves. This ice forces meltwater under shingles. Snow removal stops the source; proper insulation prevents recurrence.
Rooftop Snow Removal by Location
We provide rooftop snow removal throughout Chicagoland. Select your city for local service information and pricing.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact us today for professional rooftop snow removal services. Free estimates available.