CALUMET -- Slanted roof or not, the way snow falls in the Keweenaw means a lot of flurries land and remain on most houses until someone cleans it off.

The snow removal jobs are starting to pick up for workers with Dan Riutta Contracting.  They recommend getting your roof cleaned at least once a winter, but some people prefer to have it done more often.

"It’s just necessary," says customer Sharon Turovaara.  "My porch roof is odd in that it just accumulates ice.  I also look for icicles running down the side of the porch, meaning it's under the flashing and coming down."

Snow load can be a big problem for flat rooftops, and all homeowners have to watch out for warmer weather when the snow thaws and refreezes as ice.

Snow removal jobs typically cost between $160 and $240.

"It’s a good idea to get the snow off, especially on some of the old homes that are 30-40 years old," says Riutta.  "They might not have been built up to the same specs back then, and if you start getting ice build up on the edge of the roof and heavy snow behind it, that can actually start leaking."

If you want to get your roof cleaned, sooner is better because the snow is less compact and easier to remove.  And for anyone planning to remove the snow themselves, Riutta stresses caution because it is extremely dangerous, but he's happy to share techniques with anyone who asks.