Metal roofs are popular for their durability and esthetic appeal, but they can pose a safety hazard when snow accumulates and slides off suddenly. Snow guards for metal roofs help prevent this dangerous situation by retaining snow on the roof, allowing it to melt gradually. The right type of snow guard depends on factors like roof pitch and local climate conditions.
This article explores seven types of snow guards for metal roofs, examining their pros and cons. From adhesive options to bracket-style and fence-style designs, each type has unique features to consider. Understanding these differences helps property owners choose the most suitable snow dams for metal roofs to ensure safety and protect the surrounding landscape.
Adhesive Snow Guards
Adhesive snow guards are a popular choice for metal roofs due to their ease of installation. These guards are attached using a strong adhesive, typically SureBond SB-190, which can create a bond with up to 2000 pounds of tensile strength. This method avoids the need for drilling or screwing into the roof, maintaining its integrity. Adhesive snow guards are usually made from UV-stabilized polycarbonate, making them durable and resistant to discoloration. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors to match different roof types and esthetic preferences. However, proper installation is crucial for their effectiveness. The roof surface must be clean, dry, and above 50 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal adhesion. While convenient, adhesive snow guards may not be suitable for areas with heavy snowfall.
Bracket-Style Snow Guards
Bracket-style snow guards are a robust option for metal roofs, particularly in areas with heavy snowfall. These guards use mounted brackets that are screwed or bolted onto the roof, providing added weight capacity and stability. They can support various guard styles, including bars, fences, or individual upright snow stops. The installation method involves penetrating the roof surface, which requires careful consideration of the roof’s integrity. Proper spacing and placement are crucial for effectiveness, depending on factors such as roof pitch and local weather conditions. While bracket-style snow guards offer high durability and stability, they may not be compatible with all metal roofs. Their strength makes them ideal for homes experiencing substantial snow loads.
Clamp-On Snow Guards
Clamp-on snow guards offer a versatile solution for metal roofs, particularly those with standing seams. These guards attach securely to the roof without penetrating the surface, preserving its integrity. The RCT version is a universal fit, suitable for most standing seams up to 1 inch wide, including T-seam and Bulb seam panels. A patented swivel bracket allows for angle adjustments in hips and converging valleys, enhancing their adaptability. Clamp-on snow guards use cupped tip stainless steel set screws to create a strong posi-lock attachment without panel penetration. This design provides superior strength and reliability, making them effective types of snow guards for metal roofs with varying roof pitch.
Bar-Style Snow Guards
Bar-style snow guards are a robust solution for metal roofs, particularly in areas with heavy snowfall. These devices consist of long, horizontal bars running parallel to the roof’s eaves, creating a continuous barrier against snow slides. Made from durable materials like aluminum or stainless steel, they effectively break up large snow masses, preventing dangerous avalanches. Bar-style guards distribute the snow load evenly across the roof surface, reducing stress points that could damage the structure. They are especially suitable for metal roofs with longer, uninterrupted slopes and standing seam profiles. These guards offer a sleek, low-profile appearance that complements the clean lines of metal roofing, making them an attractive option for property owners concerned with both functionality and esthetics.
Fence-Style Snow Guards
Fence-style snow guards offer a robust solution for metal roofs in areas with heavy snowfall. These guards consist of vertical posts connected by horizontal rails, creating a fence-like structure along the roof’s surface. This design provides superior protection against large snow masses, effectively preventing dangerous avalanches. Fence-style snow guards are particularly effective in regions with high snow loads, making them ideal for areas that receive frequent and heavy snowfall. They work by retaining snow on the roof, allowing it to melt gradually rather than sliding off in large, potentially hazardous sheets. This controlled release of snow and ice helps to protect people, property, and landscaping below the roofline, making them an essential type of snow guard for metal roofs with varying roof pitch.
Conclusion
Snow guards play a crucial role in ensuring safety and protecting property when installed on metal roofs. The variety of options available, from adhesive and bracket-style to clamp-on and fence-style guards, offers solutions to suit different roof types and weather conditions. Each type has its own set of advantages and drawbacks, making it essential to consider factors such as roof pitch, local climate, and esthetic preferences when choosing the most suitable snow guard system.
By preventing sudden snow slides and allowing for gradual melting, these devices have a significant impact on reducing potential hazards associated with metal roofs in snowy regions. Property owners who take the time to understand and implement the right snow guard system can enjoy peace of mind, knowing they’ve taken important steps to protect their buildings, surrounding landscapes, and people below. In the end, the investment in proper snow guards proves invaluable in maintaining the safety and longevity of metal roofing systems.
