About
Our Mission
To be the most trusted provider of snow guards by offering the highest quality products and unmatched customer service.
Our Background
In the late 1970s, metal roofing was so new to the industry that few installers considered the dangers of sliding snow and ice on a metal roof. During this era, contractors installed snow guards on most metal roofs, mechanically fastening them. My father, Jack McMullen, had been a metal building erector since 1963 and usually installed snow guards on the buildings with gutters, pedestrian walkways, and parking areas. During that era, most snow guards had a single leg, and manufacturers typically made them from cheap metal castings that quickly oxidized when exposed to the outside elements. In three to five years, we started receiving complaints about the snow guards installed on the buildings we sold. The company began searching for a better snow retention solution for metal roofing after discovering that everything on the market was made from dissimilar metals, leaving rust marks on the beautiful metal roofs they had installed several years earlier. Necessity being the mother of invention, we sought to make a better snow guard that would not only be non-corrosive and almost invisible but also not detract from the building's appearance.
After years of testing for our new idea, we were awarded a patent on the world's first screw-down clear, non-corrosive, polycarbonate snow guard called Snojax®, now referred to as the Snojax I. In 1982, my father and I spent six months driving from one side of the country to the other, promoting our new state-of-the-art, patented polycarbonate snow guard. We aimed to introduce our invention and educate architects, engineers, designers, and contractors about the significant dangers of winter precipitation and metal roofing. The positive feedback was astonishing, and the planted seeds proliferated.
SnoBlox-Snojax Product Development Timeline
In 1976, the inventors created Snojax®.
The prototype, Snow Chex, later named Snojax®, was brought to market. We installed them on all the new buildings our sister company sold to properly field test this product. We tweaked and perfected the original design for several years, calling it the Snojax I. This model is still manufactured today and has quite a following.
In 1984, the first version of the Snojax® II evolved from the Icejax™ prototype.
Standing seam floating roofs started to become popular. These roofing panels naturally expand and contract based on weather conditions. The Snojax® company immediately saw the need to redesign its original Snojax I screw-down snow guard to be adhesively mounted and not compromise the integrity of the floating-type metal roof panels. We designed a prototype initially called Icejax™, a version of the Snojax I, with a unique plate fusion bonded on the feet to provide a sizeable interchangeable bonding surface. We knew that this attachment method would eliminate potential roof leaks, seam impairments, panel damage, warranty violations, maintenance issues, and callbacks associated with installing snow guards on this type of roofing.
In 1985, we perfected Snojax® II and discovered the Surebond SB-190 adhesive.
We discovered a suitable adhesive called Surebond SB-190. Within a year, we "tweaked" the design of the Icejax™, purchased another injection mold, and changed the name of the Icejax™ prototype to Snojax II. We hired Pittsburgh Testing Labs to perform various laboratory tests on our "adhesive mounted" snow guard, and we found that the results far exceeded our wildest expectations. Before introducing this new product to the industry, we also performed our field testing and analysis by installing it on the roofs of some of our existing customers. Once we received positive feedback from those customers, we were glad to introduce another first: a non-penetrating, adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guard designed for standing seam floating metal roofs. Because of its unique design, it earned a U.S. Design Patent for the first adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guard. The metal roofing industry immediately embraced this new product, and it was an overnight success!
Growing Years
In 2000, we invented SnoBlox® Ace and Deuce.
We introduced two uniquely designed patented SnoBlox® models, the "Ace" and the "Deuce." IceBlox, Inc. invented these models to offer the industry an economical snowguard solution that eliminated the confusion associated with minor rib straddling. They have a large, flat, forward-mounted face with a narrow base that fits in between closely spaced minor ribs. The SnoBlox® models also feature the industry's first patented waffled base design, which genuinely enhances the bonding power of the glue.
Our company launched the VentSaver™ FB-151 and P-383 models in 2002.
We introduced the world to Rick Long's invention, an industry's first, the patented stack and chimney vent saver products called the Ventsaver™ FB-151 and the Ventsaver™ P-383. These products became essential for us to inventory because we had so many customers who were misapplying snow guards to try to protect their roof vents and chimneys. These products have proven to be the perfect solution for keeping vent stack pipes and chimneys upright on the roof where they belong. In 2010, we released a heavy-duty Ventsaver™ model called the Ventsaver HD, which became extremely popular in areas with heavy snow loads. For standing seam metal roof applications, we now offer SS Ventsaver™ kits that feature a non-penetrating plate for attachment of the Ventsaver™ products to a standing seam metal roof. In 2020, the company discontinued the Ventsaver FB-151 and the Ventsaver P-383 models, introducing the improved VentSaver™ EZ as their replacement.
In late 2004, we partnered with Action Manufacturing L.L.C. to sell SnoBar® and ColorBar™ snow rails.
After many requests for a high-quality snow bar system, we did extensive research and teamed up with the originator of the only "drop-in" and first clamp-on bar system that crimps onto a standing seam metal roof panel. The SnoBar® and ColorBar™ products install quicker than any other bar system and are robust, time-proven systems. The ColorBar™ with the original slide-in color strip option utilizes 6063 T-5 Aluminum in its construction. The company manufactures the SnoBar® from galvanized, Gatorshield® coated or 304 stainless steel. They also construct the clamps from 304 stainless steel or 6061 T-6 aluminum. Both bar systems can be color-matched to your roof with fast turnaround times. Unlike any other bar system on the market today, SnoBar® and ColorBar™ are the only systems to feature a super fast top-loading clamp and an unmatched ice-stopping system that keeps snow and ice from going under and or ramping up and over the bar! In 2016, we acquired the assets of Action Manufacturing, L.L.C., which owned the patents for SnoBar®, ColorBar™, and RoofClamp™.
In 2005, we revived the Icejax™ name by introducing two new models.
We received requests for several other styles and sizes of snow guards. We decided to revive the Icejax™ name and introduce two different-size models, the Icejax I and the Icejax II. The company based these new models on the trusted 22-year-old Snojax II design. We hired the internationally renowned A.T.I. professional testing laboratory to test ALL of our snow guard models, and these tests proved, once again, that the Snojax®, SnoBlox®, and Icejax™ brands are the strongest, best bonding snow guards in the industry!
In 2006, we introduced the stainless steel SnowCatcher™.
2006 was now upon us, and we had requests for metal snow guards. We always strive to meet the needs of our customers. We invented plastic snow guards because the available metal snow guards were expensive, too tiny to work, or fabricated from cheap cast metal that proved to become brittle and break in colder temperatures. To provide the industry with a better option for metal snow guards, we developed the SnowCatcher™. This large, 16 gauge, 304 stainless steel snow guard is available in mill finish or powder-coated color options. Since no bonding agent is adequate for metal-to-metal snow guard attachment, this guard is for screw-down mechanical mounting only. It comes with pre-drilled screw holes and an adhesive-backed, precut V742 CCF PVC foam sealer base pad, so installation is fast and straightforward, no silicone needed. The profile is similar to our popular SnoBlox® design and will fit most screw or nail-down metal roof panels.
In 2007, we developed our wholesale reselling program.
We began carrying #14 snow guard screws for mechanical fastening snow guard applications. We also had several requests to make our snow guards available on a wholesale B2B level, so we did just that! We now offer our Icejax™ and SnoBlox® models with low minimum purchasing quantities at a wholesale price for qualified resellers (Call for more information). This opportunity allows many businesses to increase their profit margins by offering a simple, strong, and effective roofing accessory, enhancing safety and preventing building and property damage in the industry.
Also, in 2009, we introduced the decorative stainless steel SnowCatcher™ lineup.
We added the 304-grade stainless steel decorative metal SnowCatcher™ lineup, which included the Mustang, Fleur-De-Lis, Sun Burst, and Maple Leaf SnowCatcher™ models. After partnering with a local powder coater, we can now offer durable TGIC Polyester powder coating in hundreds of colors.
Also 2009, we introduced the first "green" recycled plastic snow guard.
We released the snow guard industry's FIRST recycled snow guard, the EcoBlox™, made from 100% post-consumer polycarbonate. The "green" materials used in this iteration of the trusted SnoBlox® Deuce model are post-consumer plastic polycarbonate, incorporating recycled materials such as 5-gallon water bottles and compact discs to promote environmental sustainability. Now, you can be environmentally conscious and still know you use a trusted and proven snow guard simultaneously. Unfortunately, recycled plastic has been challenging to find since the pandemic, so this product will be on hold until the polycarbonate market stabilizes.
In late 2009, we developed our shingle roof snow guard.
We partnered with a local machine shop to produce the SlateGuard™ for tile and shingle roofs. The pre-assembled, sturdy 304 stainless steel SlateGuard™ is an ideal retrofit or new construction solution for slate, asphalt shingle, and composite tile roofs. Slots easily engage roof nails. Unique rolled tabs ensure the SnoBlox® Deuce is held firmly on the strap, and a sturdy rivet prevents lift out. It is available in clear or the other current SnoBlox® Deuce colors.
In 2010, we patented and released the SnowBreaker™ snow guard.
We released the patented SnowBreaker™, a revolutionary snow guard device we designed to split apart shedding snow and ice. As snow and ice slide on the roof, this cost-effective product minimizes the danger by slicing the frozen precipitation into small pieces to come off the roof safely. The forward cutting edge and the tucked-back rear support form a triangular shape that acts like a fin to split up the frozen precipitation. We also offer the SnowBreaker 3M with a "Peel and Stick" tape for convenient year-round installation.
Also, in 2010, the Standing Seam RoofClamp™ was introduced.
We were pleased to announce the release of the patented universal Roof Clamp™, a clamp for roof accessory attachment on metal roofing. Installers can secure Satellite Dishes, Roof Walks, Conduits, or HVAC lines with the clamp. One can also use them to attach signs or awnings. The RCT model fits over 95 percent of the standing seam panels on the market, so there is no need to stock the many sizes of clamps that other manufacturers require. The aluminum RoofClamp™ utilizes Stainless Steel cup-tipped screws that do not pierce or penetrate the panel; therefore, it will not void the manufacturer's warranty.
In 2012 Round-Tip and Cup-Tipped set screws differences explained.
We dispelled the myth that round and oval-tipped set screws do not leave a mark on a standing seam metal panel while proving that cup-tipped set screws are the obvious choice for a roof clamp. You can see the demo and explanation here.
In 2014, we introduced the standing seam VentSaver™ plate.
The Standing Seam Ventsaver Plate is a solution for installing the Ventsaver™ stack and chimney protection devices on a standing seam metal roof panel without penetration. The company used the already popular universal RCT RoofClamp for attachment to the panel, and they fabricated an adjustable stainless steel plate that spanned the seams of the metal panel to mount various models of the VentSaver™. The adjustable plate, constructed from heavy 1/4" thick 5052 stainless steel, includes a built-in ice ramp to safeguard the base of the pipe, while the Ventsaver™ fin shields the upper sections of the pipe.
In 2016, we purchased assets from Action Manufacturing, A.K.A. SnoBar®.
We purchased the assets of Action Manufacturing L.L.C. of Colorado. This company manufactured and retained the patents for the original drop-in, clamp-on, ColorBar,™ SnoBar® snow retention system. It also held patents for the WindBar™ metal roof noise-suppression system, the award-winning Standing Seam Roof Anchor, and the universal RoofClamp™ metal roof attachment system.
In 2019, we introduced SnoCleat™ Aluminum snow guards.
We introduced the long-awaited SnoCleat™ line of aluminum snow guards with a slotted face to accept a slide-in color strip. There are several different models to accommodate just about every application. The SnoCleat RC and SnoCleat RCT models clamp onto a standing seam metal roof and feature an exclusive swivel bracket that allows for angle adjustment on hips and converging valleys. You can adjust the torque setting on the bracket to protect the seams in case of sudden snow and ice impact. The SnoCleat PBR is a screw-down model designed explicitly for mechanically fastened PBR panels. The SnoCleat 2.67 is one of the only snow guards on the market specially designed for 2.67 corrugated metal panels. The holes are drilled with a precise 2.67-inch spacing to be mounted perfectly on the high portion of the corrugated metal panel grove.
In 2020, we made the SnoBar® and ColorBar™ snow rail kits available online.
We revamped our websites and made the SnoBar®, ColorBar™, and their components available online. The SnoBar® and ColorBar™ 6-foot kits are now in stock and shipped fast via UPS and FedEx. We are also excited about our latest product, the Ridge Pro roof anchor. This ingenious product helps make the installation of snow guards safer for professional installers and DIY homeowners alike. Also in 2020, the VentSaver HD-C. (height extender kit) was made available for the popular VentSaver HD, adding 18 inches of height to the heavy-duty VentSaver model.
In 2021, the VentSaver EZ replaced the previous VentSaver™ models.
The VentSaver™ line is now simplified to feature just two models. The more versatile VentSaver EZ replaced the VentSaver FB-151 and the VentSaver P-383. The VentSaver EZ and VentSaver HD models have optional wing kits and height extenders. Both models can be installed without spacers or wing modifications by using the optional SD (Screw Down) or SS (Standing Seam) VentSaver™ mounting kits.
In 2022, our design team invented the Kodiak bear-shaped SnowCatcher™ for a rural-themed cabin.
Brion McMullen invented the stainless steel Kodiak SnowCatcher™ as a decorative snow guard for a bear-themed rural cabin in a snowy region. The result is a super strong snow guard that is a great conversation starter when visitors come to stay.
In 2023, our engineering team invented the SataMount satellite mount.
This standing seam metal roof satellite mounting solution is universally fit for attaching satellite dishes to standing seam roofs and is also Starlink compatible!
Also, in 2023, the VentSaver Extreme was released.
A new version of the VentSaver™ was released to combat the harshest winter conditions. This new VentSaver™ model addresses how to protect those vulnerable stainless-steel chimneys. The VentSaver Extreme has a much wider wingspan of almost 20 inches! There is also an optional upper wing kit that attaches directly to the chimney pipe to add extra protection and support to the pipe.
Why We Are The Best
Now that you know WHO we are, we want to tell you WHY we are the leading supplier of snow guards and bar-style snow retention systems. With so many new snow guard companies flooding the marketplace, choosing a qualified supplier can take time and effort. There are several important factors to consider when selecting the proper snow guard for metal roofing applications. A snow guard or rail system's height, width, and shape are the most important features to consider. These factors determine its ability to hold back heavy ice and snow layers. A pad-style guard should have a flat, forward-mounted face that measures at least 3 inches across and stands no less than 2.5 inches high. It is best to mount it in the lowest portion of the roofing panel where the snow and ice move, not on a high seam above the problem area. Snow guards mounted on a high seam will cease to be effective once the snow and ice compact on the panel and become lower than the guard. A snow bar or snow rail system should always have a flat face or square tube made from extruded aluminum, stainless steel, or galvanized Gatorshield®-coated steel with a stainless steel or aluminum roof clamp mounted on every seam. The recommendation is to use an ice stopper at least 3 inches wide, mounted perpendicular to the panel, to be effective. Installing the correct type of ice-stopping device is the key to keeping the snow and ice from going under and over the bar.
The preferred method of attachment that imposes the least risk of panel damage on a standing seam floating panel roof is the adhesive-mounted pad-style snow guard. This mounting method does not restrict floating metal roof panels' natural thermal expansion and contraction. In severe snow drifting conditions, it provides a release feature that eliminates the possibility of panel damage. Glue-mounted snow guards will never cause roof leaks, and if they do release, you can reattach them to the same spot with little difficulty. It is essential to remember that crimp-on guards or rails have no release aspect, and panel damage could occur if snow loads exceed the design capabilities of the clamp. These systems work well but are generally more expensive and can pose a risk of panel damage if under-designed. Install them in strict accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations!
If aesthetics are a consideration, clear pad-style snow guards are far less noticeable on a roof than colored ones. A color-matched snow guard will act as a sundial and cast a conspicuous shadow. Consider this scenario: a person stands before a building and looks at the roof. What do they see? They observe all the protruding objects that don't blend with the sky, including non-transparent snow retention systems. Clear snow guards unify with the skyline and, in most cases, are almost undetectable.
Another important consideration is the type of material used to make the snow guard. Clear UV-stable polycarbonate is virtually invisible and will not create corrosive galvanic reactions caused by dissimilar metals exposed to outdoor elements. Metal snow guards made of metal dissimilar to the roof can deteriorate a metal roof quickly. The polycarbonate used to make our snow guards has an ASTM brittleness temperature rating of 150° below zero. Because all plastics do not maintain the same characteristics when exposed to various weather conditions, the consumer should only consider using a product made from a virgin-grade, UV-stabilized, prime polycarbonate material. Our company uses the same type of polycarbonate, approved by NASA, that they use to create astronaut face masks. Not all plastic snow guard manufacturers use the same high-quality polycarbonate material. A cheap price that is too good to be true is a red flag, and the buyer should proceed cautiously.
Losing money through misapplication
The most common snow retention problem that we encounter is misapplication. We have found that some newer snow guard companies are in fields unrelated to the industry and are in this business for a quick sale. They are eager to tell customers that a single row of guards along the eave will suffice. To top it off, some even suggest using untested sealants and tapes that have no U.V. resistance. Others claim that there are new "miracle" cold weather adhesives. The manufacturer of this product discourages selling this silicone-based sealant for the adhesive mounting of snow guards in the winter. If there were a snow guard adhesive that cures in cold temperatures, we would sell it.
The deceptive tactics used by others about testing snow guards are something to be aware of. Some companies use the tensile strength ratings of plastics and adhesives to provide misleading information about the holding strength of their guards. We have had the holding strength of our snow guards "mounted with adhesive" professionally tested by the internationally renowned A.T.I. Testing Lab (Now Intertek). We proudly publish these findings in our literature and website. These tests, along with over 42 years of field experience, enable us to accurately design a layout for a snow retention system that will work in any situation. Always ask a snow guard company for third-party test results to be sure!
With so many choices on the market, there is not one type of snow retention system perfect for every application. Some types of metal roofing need to have the proper seam height and be structurally suitable for use with a clamp-down system. While using an adhesive-mounted system is always harmless to the panel, weather conditions are not always ideal for proper installation. We have a spacing guideline page for general information on adequate snow guard placement. Always consult an architect or engineer for proper spacing recommendations for your project.
Manufacturer Warranty?
Lifetime Warranty - no fine print.
Last but not least, you must also consider a manufacturer's warranty. Our snow guards are warranted for a lifetime without hidden fees or inspections when used according to our instructions and recommended layout. However, it is impossible to warranty workmanship; therefore, the attachment method is not part of our warranty. It's that simple.
One of our competitors claims that they offer systems that are supposedly good enough to be warranted for the life of the roof, but what they don't tell you is that there is a costly $1500 Issuance Fee plus 8% of the total invoice cost to receive their "Limited Warranty"! Issuance is then conditional on receiving a "Field Inspection Report" or a written waiver obtained by the contractor from the manufacturer. Suppose this report is "unsatisfactory," or the manufacturer determines that they must conduct further field inspections. In that case, the contractor, representing the "owner," is subject to additional "re-inspection" fees as determined by the manufacturer. Of course, this fee is promised not to exceed the original Issuance Fee. If the manufacturer determines the system was underdesigned, as it usually is, then the manufacturer shall have no obligations or liabilities! Sounds confusing? It is! Not to mention, this type of "Limited Warranty" could far exceed the original cost of the snow retention system! Why charge for a warranty in the first place if the product works?
More Than 45 years later, the Snojax® legacy continues.
More than 48 years later, I am proud to continue my father's legacy with integrity. Our son, Reilly, has joined the family business and is inspired to be the third generation to take over someday.
We manufacture all our products, including the SnoBlox®, Snojax®, and SnoBar® brands, entirely in the U.S.A. with no overseas sourcing. The metal construction industry recognizes these as the leading metal-roof snow guard systems. Since 1976, we have been nationally and internationally known as a trustworthy supplier whose predominant business is providing snow retention and accessory attachment solutions for metal roofing. By offering the best products and outstanding customer service, we continue to provide the industry with the highest quality snow guard systems available at the best possible price and with the best warranty! Our mission is to meet the constantly changing needs of the metal roofing industry with continuous research and development of professionally tested products. As a second-generation business with the third generation currently in training, we plan to serve future generations! Please message our award-winning customer service department at support@snojax.com with any questions or suggestions.
By Brion P. McMullen, President CEO
SnoBlox®-Snojax®-SnoBar®
