Shovel in good time
The recent heavy snowfall has resulted in large amounts of snow accumulating on flat pergola systems. To prevent the snow from becoming heavy and wet – and thereby creating unnecessary strain on the structure – it is important that snow is removed in good time.
Flat pergolas are designed for the Nordic climate, but with continuous snowfall and rapid weather changes, the snow load can quickly increase. By acting early, you reduce the risk of damage and ensure that the pergola maintains both its function and lifespan over time.
The right tools make a big difference
When clearing snow from flat pergola systems, the choice of tools is crucial to avoid damage to the roof, fabric, and profiles. We recommend always using light and gentle tools, adapted for delicate surfaces.
Examples of suitable tools:
- Snow shovel or snow rake with a plastic or rubber edge
- Light snow rake on a telescopic handle, which allows snow to be pulled off without unnecessarily loading the roof surface
- Tools that enable controlled and even work, without chopping or scraping
Avoid:
- Metal shovels, spades, or tools with sharp edges
- Ice picks or hard impacts on the roof surface
- Walking or standing on parts of the structure not intended for load (the louvres).
Snow should be removed in layers, especially with larger amounts of snow, rather than trying to clear everything at once. This reduces the risk of damage while gradually reducing the load.
Adapt measures according to the type of weather protection
All weather protection is affected differently by snow, cold, and temperature fluctuations. Therefore, it is important to adapt measures according to the type of roof or protection you have installed.
Louvered roofs
- Louvered roofs are robust but should not be subjected to large amounts of snow for extended periods.
- Clear all snow from the roof in good time
- Ensure the snow does not compact or freeze solid
- If possible: turn on heating to reduce ice formation
PVC fabric / fabric-based roof
These are not designed for snow load
- PVC fabric is more affected by cold and heavy snow and requires extra attention.
- Remove all snow as soon as possible
- Turn on heating in the space under the roof so that the fabric softens
- When the temperature has risen: operate the roof carefully and controllably
Avoid operating the fabric when it is cold and stiff
Awnings
- Awnings are not designed for snow load.
- Remove all snow accumulated on the fabric
- Retract the awning carefully when it is free of snow
- Do not allow snow to remain and freeze solid
Adapting handling to the type of weather protection reduces the risk of unnecessary wear and costly damage.
We are happy to help
If you lack the opportunity, the right equipment, or simply want to ensure that snow clearance is carried out correctly and gently, we at PS Skylt & Inredning are happy to help.
We can assist with:
- Snow clearance of flat pergola systems
- Assessment of snow load and need for action
- Advice on how your pergola should be handled during the winter period
By letting us help, you reduce the risk of damage to both the pergola and its structure, while saving time and effort.