Do Snow Companies Handle Roof Snow Removal Too?

3 min read · Thames Valley Snow, London, Ontario

Roof snow buildup is a real concern in London, Ontario winters, but not every snow removal company offers roof clearing as part of their services.

Ground-level driveway and lot plowing uses different equipment and expertise than roof snow removal, which typically requires specialized tools, ladders or lift access, and training to avoid damaging shingles or gutters. Many residential snow removal companies focus exclusively on driveways, walkways, and parking areas.

Roof snow becomes a real risk when ice dams form or when accumulated weight puts stress on the structure, especially after a heavy, wet snowfall. Flat commercial roofs are particularly prone to load issues during a big storm.

If a company doesn't offer roof service directly, they can often point customers toward a trusted contractor who specializes in it, since roof work carries different liability and safety considerations than ground clearing.

At Thames Valley Snow, we focus on driveways, walkways, and lots, and we're happy to help customers find the right resource if a roof concern comes up.

Warning Signs Your Roof Needs Attention

If you notice sagging or structural sounds, leave the house and call a qualified contractor or engineer. Do not climb up yourself.

Safe DIY Roof Raking From the Ground

For a typical bungalow or one-storey section, a long-handled roof rake used from the ground can pull the bottom few feet of snow off the eaves, which helps prevent ice dams. Work from the edge back, leave a thin layer so you do not scrape shingles, and stay clear of the area where snow will fall. Watch for overhead power lines, and never use a ladder on ice. Anything that needs a ladder, a harness, or roof access is a job for a professional.

Where Roof Snow Ends Up

Snow and ice sliding off a roof often lands on steps, walkways, and the side of the driveway, and meltwater from downspouts refreezes on paths overnight. That is the part we can help with. Our walkway and steps service starts at $150 plus HST, and seasonal salting at $175 plus HST includes freezing rain and refreeze visits. Before the season we mark edges, steps and drains so they are easy to find under heavy snow.

Choosing a Roof Snow Specialist

If you do hire someone for the roof, ask whether they carry liability insurance and WSIB coverage, how they protect shingles and gutters, and whether they use fall protection. Roof work is higher risk than ground clearing, so proof of coverage matters even more. Ask where the snow will be dropped, too, so it does not bury your walkway, vents or gas meter.

FAQ

Does Thames Valley Snow clear roofs?

No. We focus on driveways, walkways, steps and lots, and we can point you toward the right kind of specialist for roof work.

Can salt help with icy spots under a downspout?

Yes, but rock salt works poorly below about -10°C. Regular salting visits and redirecting the downspout away from the path work better together. If you have pets, ask about our pet-safe de-icer ($120 plus HST).

Ready to stop worrying about winter? Get a free quote (we measure from City of London maps and aerial imagery and reply within 1 business day), or call or text (548) 888-8702. See our walkway and steps service or salting and ice control.

What's included… and what's extra

A Thames Valley Snow seasonal residential plan starts from $650 for a standard driveway. It covers clearing the driveway every time snowfall reaches the trigger depth in your agreement, plus the windrow the city plow leaves at the end of the driveway. Larger driveways are priced on our snow removal prices page.

Popular add-ons, priced per season: walkway and steps from $150 (walk plus up to 6 steps $175), salting $175 (including freezing rain and refreeze visits), priority early-morning clearing $125, pet-safe de-icer $120, a season extension from Nov 1 to Apr 15 for $95 and city sidewalk clearing $90. Add only what your property needs; everything is listed on the quote so there are no surprises. Get your fixed price or call or text (548) 888-8702.