Icicles at the roof edge: having them removed

The danger is at the foot of the wall

According to the Régie, this ice is a danger to cars and pedestrians. A digest from the National Research Council of Canada says the same about falling icicles, which it describes as a danger to people and to property. The digest dates from 1968, and the Council keeps it as a historical reference.

Having this ice removed is part of roof snow removal. The CNESST (Quebec's workplace health and safety board) lists removing ice and icicles along the edge of a building among the tasks of snow removal workers.

The thaw, a time to watch

People think the danger is over when the weather turns milder. The digest describes the opposite. When the temperature rises above the melting point, the ice melts quickly where it touches the roof and the eaves. Pulled by its own weight, it breaks loose, and its fall is a serious danger.

On a mild or sunny day, look at the roof edge from the street or the yard, at a safe distance, before letting anyone go out through a door underneath.

While you wait for the crew

You cannot remove the ice, but you can empty the space beneath it.

• Close off the path that leads under the eaves without stepping into it: a tape, chairs, a sign on the door.
• Have occupants use another door, if the building has one.
• Move the cars parked at the foot of the wall.
• Warn tenants, expected visitors and neighbours whose driveway runs along the building.

What you do not do: hit the icicles, aim at them with a handle or a shovel, bring out a ladder, lean out of a window to reach them. At no time stand under loaded eaves.

Who to call

Call a company that does ice removal, often a roofer or a roof snow removal company. The Régie writes that one of its licences is not required to clear snow from roofs. It recommends choosing people who have the right experience and equipment. On the phone, say:

• where the ice is, and what is below it,
• the height of the building in storeys,
• whether power lines run near the roof edge,
• whether water is getting inside.

The Régie notes that specialists can set up a safety perimeter around the building. It calls on the public to respect these perimeters during snow or ice removal.

If the ice threatens to fall on passers-by and nobody can come in time, keep people away and call 911.

Heating cables

The digest describes heating cables as a way to open drainage paths through the ice. It warns that a faulty electrical installation creates a risk of fire or electrocution. Installing these cables is a job for a professional.

If the ice comes back every winter in the same spot, tell us in your request.

Frequently asked questions