Winter in Utah is known for its significant snowfall, creating snow-capped mountains and beautiful wintery landscapes. However, it also brings the challenge of dealing with snow and ice accumulation, especially on your roof. As snow and ice build up on your roof, you may begin to wonder whether you can use rock salt to melt it.
At Lifetime Roofing, we understand that homeowners want to promptly and efficiently address any snow or ice on their roofs. Failing to properly address this buildup can result in substantial damage to your roof. However, using improper removal methods can be just as damaging to your roof.
If you have considered using rock salt on your roof to melt snow or ice and you want to learn more about the impact this may have on your roof’s fragile materials, keep reading.
What is Rock Salt?
Rock salt is the most commonly used name for halite, a naturally occurring form of sodium chloride (NaCl). Unlike many table salts, this salt is mined from deep underground. While it is similar to table salt, it has not been purified for human consumption and is instead more commonly used for melting down snow and ice on roads, sidewalks, and driveways. With its coarse, granular texture, it is an incredibly effective way to break down ice and provide more traction on slippery surfaces.
Can You Use Rock Salt on Your Roof?
While using rock salt on your roof might seem like an efficient way to remove any winter weather build-up, this may have more detrimental effects on your roofing material than you realize. Some of the problems you may encounter by using it on your roof include:
- Corrosion of Roofing Materials: Rock salt is an incredibly corrosive substance and can be damaging to the fragile materials on your roof, including shingles, metal, and gutters. As this corrosion is left unaddressed, it can lead to leaks, structural damage, and costly and premature roof repairs.
- Damage to Your Landscaping: As the snow and ice on your roof melt, the rock salt may run off the roof and harm plants and soil around your home. In some cases, the high salt concentration may kill grass and other vegetation, leading to more complex landscaping issues that may persist throughout the spring and summer months.
- Problems with Home Masonry: Some home materials, like brick and stone, are incredibly porous. When the snow and ice melt, these materials can absorb the salt runoff. As it absorbs this runoff, your home’s masonry materials become more susceptible to damage.
How to Address Snow and Ice on Your Roof
While using rock salt on your roof is an inadequate way to address snow and ice build-up, there are several ways for you to address it. Some of the best ways to address snow and ice on your roof include:
- Roof Rake: A roof rake is a long-handled tool designed to remove snow from your roof without having to climb onto it. Regularly raking snow from your roof prevents heavy snow accumulation and reduces the risk of snow dams, preventing the need for expensive roof repairs.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensuring your attic is well-insulated and properly ventilated can prevent heat from escaping through the roof, which reduces snow melt and the formation of ice dams. This is a proactive approach that addresses the root cause of ice dams and allows you to address snow build-up on your own.
- Calcium Chloride: If you need to melt ice on your roof, you might want to consider using calcium chloride pellets instead of rock salt. Calcium chloride is less corrosive and more effective at lower temperatures. However, you should use it sparingly and only apply it in specific problem areas.
- Heated Cables: Installing heated cables along the edge of your roof and in gutters can help prevent ice dams by melting snow and ice as it accumulates. While this method requires some initial investment and installation, it provides long-term benefits that make it a wonderful investment in your home.
- Professional Help: If you are dealing with significant snow or ice buildup, it may be in your best interest to reach out to a professional for support. Teams with experience removing snow from roofs will have the experience and equipment necessary to remove this snow safely and effectively.
Reliable Roof Repairs from Lifetime Roofing
If you have previously used rock salt on your roof, you may be dealing with the deterioration of your roofing materials, making repairs and replacements essential. When it comes time to schedule these repairs, it is important that you work with a reliable roofing company, like our team at Lifetime Roofing.
For almost two decades, our team has provided reliable roof repairs and replacement services to homeowners across the Northern Utah area. Once we’ve repaired or replaced your roof, our team can also provide reliable maintenance services, helping to prevent more roof damage. If you need help addressing roof damage or if you have any questions about our roofing services, don’t hesitate to contact us today.