It may be hard to believe but it will take a team of 36 window cleaners carrying electrolyte packs and wearing specialized clothing resembling moon suits three months to wash the new 2,717-foot Burj Khalifa in Dubai. The building, which was initially to be named the Burj Dubai, stands at 206 stories tall, reaching half a mile into the sky. While most visitors will look out from the skyscraper to admire the view of the Arabian desert below, the window cleaning crews will be looking back in. A team of 36 cleaners, mostly made up of migrant workers, have been employed to man 12 state-of-the-art machines that travel along tracks fixed to the exterior of the building while its windows are washed. It is a daunting task, but someone has to do it. I wonder if it had gutters (not much need for gutters in the desert and more than 2000 feet above the ground) who would clean them and install gutter protection?

What is a Snow Guard?

A snow guard helps prevent snow and ice accumulated on a roof from dropping to the ground before it melts completely. Snow guards are a very cost-effective solution that protect homes and businesses from the elements in cold weather climates. Though they do not stop the snow from falling completely in the areas where they are installed, they do prevent large loads of snow from dropping at one time.

Where Snow Guards Are Used

Particularly useful when installed above in entryways, parking lots, gutters and expensive landscaping, these simple additions to a roof can provide accessibility to your property throughout the entire year by stopping excessive snow pileup at key locations.

Snow guards are typically installed by gutter installation companies or roofing contractors, but for experienced do-it-yourselfer, this is a project that can be tackled with the right tools and supplies. Snow guards can be purchased at your local home improvement supply company or directly from the retailer.

This small addition can make all the difference if you live in a climate with cold, long winters where snow typically piles on your roof. Look into this easy fix and enjoy your entryways and other key areas being clear of snow and ice.