Winters in Pittsburgh mean snow.  Sometimes that snow can be very wet and heavy, which is dangerous for your roof.  

It can be difficult to know if the snow on your roof should be removed.  Consider the age of the roof, home structure and the condition it is in.   If the snow on the ground is heavy when lifted with a shovel, you can be sure that the snow on the roof is also heavy.  Watch weather and news reports.  Often they will mention if recent weather could cause roof collapses.  Look inside your house.  Do the interior doors stick or did the drywall crack around the door frame?  These could be signs of extra weight on the roof, especially if you see these signs on the top floor.

What should you do?  Check the weather forecast.  If warm weather is coming, the snow will melt on its own.  If not, you should remove the snow to prevent damage and ice dams from forming.  Ice dams are a build up of ice along the edges of the roof that prevent water from properly running off the roof.  This can cause water to seep inside instead.  

There are two ways to remove excess snow from the roof.  The safest way is to hire a professional. They have the knowledge to remove snow without damaging the roof and the equipment to do it safely.  If your roof is lower and you can reach it from the ground with a long handled rake, you can try to do it yourself.  Many home improvement stores carry special snow removal rakes for this purpose.  They are still difficult to work with on very heavy snow.  Be careful not to stand directly under where the snow will fall from the roof.  You should start at the bottom with the overhangs and work your way up going about a foot at a time.  Be sure to watch for dangers such as power lines hanging near the roof.  Remember the goal is to remove the excess snow, not all of the snow.

If you need to get on the roof and shovel the snow to remove it, it is best to hire a professional.
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When the winter snow comes, consider the effect it has on your roof and take the necessary steps to protect your investment.

The siding on your home is more than just a design feature.  It protects and insulates your home from the outdoor conditions.  There are many signs that it is time to repair or replace your homes exterior.

• Damaged or Worn Siding - If your siding is cracked or damaged from hail or other impact, you should repair or replace as it no longer can properly protect your home.  Another sign of damage or wear is loose siding that is hanging or separated from itself.  Missing or cracked caulking and protruding nails are also signs of wear indicating that the siding has moved or shifted since its installation.
  
• Siding Blistering - bumps or bubbles in the siding is an indication that temperatures and moisture are wrecking havoc on your exterior. It is important to identify and correct the cause and repair or replace the damaged areas.
  
• Animals and Insects - Siding should also protect against small animals and insects invading your home.  If you notice holes in the side of your house, they are likely caused by insects boring through the exterior covering.  Replacing the siding will keep the pests out.