Snow Guard Options for Exposed Fastener 5280 Metal Supply Roof Panels

See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for 5280 Metal Supply Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

Which Snow Guards Work Best with 5280 Metal Supply's Exposed-Fastener Panels?

Metal roofs with exposed fasteners often experience rapid snow and ice movement once cold weather arrives.

When a roof sheds accumulated snow in one large release, the entire layer can slide off as a single sheet with little or no warning. The smooth surface of these panels encourages this behavior, allowing heavy snow sections to break free rather than melting gradually. This sudden movement creates hazards around the roof perimeter for people, pets, vehicles, landscaping, and outdoor equipment. To help manage these risks, we provide snow retention solutions tailored to each panel's profile and the snow conditions common to each region. Installers can choose between pad-style snow guards or continuous rail systems, making it easier to match the roof's design. Our blogs, installation instructions, compatibility tools, and manufacturer-specific resources guide contractors and property owners toward the right products. Snow retention plays a key role in controlling how snow behaves on a metal roof, whether the building sits in a light-snow area or a region with significant winter accumulation.

Who is 5280 Metal Supply?

5280 Metal Supply supports builders, contractors, and homeowners across Colorado by focusing on reliable service, fast turnaround, and consistent inventory. Their workflow emphasizes efficiency, helping customers secure roofing and siding materials without unnecessary delays. The team values craftsmanship, clear communication, and a smooth ordering experience, combining modern production capabilities with a customer-focused, local approach. Their product selection highlights durable materials, dependable performance, and a service model built to support projects of any size throughout the region.

PBR Panel

The PBR panel is engineered for commercial applications and can span up to 5 feet between purlins. This panel spans 36 inches and features 1-1/4-inch-high ribs spaced 12 inches apart. It requires a minimum roof pitch of 3:12, or as low as 0.5:12 when bead seal and stitch screws are installed every foot along the laps. The panel is available in 24-gauge and 26-gauge steel on an AZ50 substrate, with Grade 80 used for 26-gauge and Grade 50 for 24-gauge. Customers can choose painted or Galvalume finishes. The 26-gauge option uses Valspar WeatherXL (SMP), while the 24-gauge version features Valspar Fluropon (PVDF), and both coatings meet Energy Star requirements. Panel weights are 2.67 lbs per linear foot in 26-gauge and 3.58 lbs per linear foot in 24-gauge. Warranty coverage includes 40 years for WeatherXL and 25 years for Galvalume. The panel positions itself as a heavy-duty option for metal buildings, warehouses, and other long-span structures, even though rib height, rib spacing, and coverage width are not listed. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for 5280 Metal Supply PBR Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

This panel works with a wide selection of our snow retention products. Installers can use screw-down SnoBar and ColorBar rails, the SnoCleat PBR, and stainless steel SnowCatchers in styles such as Standard Rectangle, Fleur-de-lis, Sun Burst, Maple Leaf, Mustang, and Kodiak. Installers can mount most of our polycarbonate guards with adhesive or mechanical fasteners. Still, they must always screw down the Snojax I. Surebond SB-190 is approved only for polycarbonate models. Installers should center smaller guards between the minor ribs. At the same time, they must position larger designs like the Snojax II and IceJax II off-center. Hence, they straddle either the left or right minor rib. Every guard in the layout should align over the same rib for consistency. Installers should never mount guards or rails on the high ribs, since they cannot provide proper support. Fasteners must penetrate the low flats and anchor into solid structure beneath the panel to ensure long-term performance.

Tuff-Rib Panel

The Tuff-Rib panel is designed for residential and light-commercial use, offering wide coverage and a predictable rib layout that provides strength without unnecessary weight. The panel spans 36 inches in width and features ¾-inch ribs spaced 9 inches apart, creating the familiar four-rib pattern used on barns, garages, sheds, and agricultural buildings. It is available in 26-gauge steel, with matching trim and fasteners to complete the system. The rib spacing and low rib height make installation straightforward on solid decking or over purlins, and the profile supports dependable drainage on low-slope roofs while maintaining a clean, uniform appearance. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for 5280 Metal Supply Tuff-Rib Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

This profile supports many of our snow guard options. Polycarbonate guards such as the SnoBlox Deuce and SnowBreaker fit neatly between the minor ribs. Metal choices, including the SnoCleat PBR and decorative SnowCatchers, can be installed in the flat center section for both function and appearance. For larger roof surfaces or areas with ground snow loads above 45 psf, rail systems are often the preferred solution. When paired with Tall ColorBrackets and the correct fasteners, the ColorBar PBR and SnoBar PBR systems provide strong, reliable snow control across a wide range of climates.

Corrugated Panel

The corrugated panel is a lightweight, adaptable profile built around a repeating wave pattern that gains strength from its shape rather than tall ribs. It offers 32 inches of coverage with 7/8-inch corrugations spaced 2.67 inches apart, creating the classic look used on barns, sheds, accent walls, and both residential and commercial cladding. The panel is available in 24-gauge steel with painted or Galvalume finishes to meet durability and aesthetic needs. The tight corrugation spacing increases rigidity while keeping the panel easy to handle and install, making it a practical choice for roofing and siding projects that call for a traditional corrugated appearance. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for 5280 Metal Supply Corrugated Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

The distinctive wavy profile of this panel allows snow guards to be mounted directly on the raised ribs, unlike typical installation practices for other exposed-fastener panels. Several of our snow retention products are compatible with this design. The SnoCleat 2.67 attaches to the ribs with 3-inch screws, and the SnoBar and ColorBar rail systems also fit this profile, using the same ColorBracket 2.67 as the SnoCleat. Installers can use all six screw holes for maximum strength, though four screws are sufficient for standard conditions. In regions with more severe winter weather, using all six screws increases durability and holding power.

5280 Metal Supply Compatibility Chart for Snow Guards

	PBR Panel	Tuff-Rib Panel	Corrugated Panel
Ecojax	YES	YES	NO
IceJax I	YES	YES	NO
IceJax II	YES	NO	NO
SnoBlox Deuce	YES	YES	NO
Ace	YES	NO	NO
Snojax I	YES	NO	NO
Snojax II	YES	NO	NO
SnowBreaker	YES	YES	NO
SnowCatcher	YES	YES	NO
SnoBar PBR	YES	YES	NO
ColorBar PBR	YES	YES	NO
SnoCleat PBR	YES	YES	NO
SnoCleat 2.67	NO	NO	YES
SnoBar 2.67	NO	NO	YES
ColorBar 2.67	NO	NO	YES

Considerations for Adding Snow Guards to Exposed Fastener Roofs by 5280 Metal Supply

Should I Test Fit Snow Guards Before Final Installation?

Placing the guards temporarily on the roof before fastening them allows you to verify spacing, alignment, and layout. This simple step helps create a uniform pattern and a clean, professional appearance once everything is secured.

How Can I Coordinate My Snow Guards with My Roof?

Selecting finishes that complement or closely match the roof's color and texture helps the guards blend in naturally. Long-lasting powder-coated options keep their appearance for years. At the same time, DIY coatings offer an affordable way to customize the finish.

When Is the Best Time to Install Adhesive-Mounted Snow Guards?

Adhesive-applied guards perform best when installed during warm weather, usually from late spring into early summer, when temperatures remain above 50°F. Warmer conditions speed up curing, and adhesives like SureBond SB-190 typically reach moisture resistance within about 24 hours.

What Snow Guard Solutions Work Best for Unique Roof Shapes?

Roofs with arches, curves, or other unusual contours often need guards shaped to match those profiles. Standard models may not sit correctly, making custom-fit options and following the manufacturer’s placement guidelines essential for reliable performance.

How Can I Fasten Snow Guards for Maximum Strength?

For the strongest hold, attach snow guards directly to structural framing, such as purlins or rafters, rather than relying solely on the roof panels. Securing them into these components increases load capacity and improves long-term durability.

Should I Use Sealant Under My Screw-Mounted Snow Guards?

Applying sealant beneath screw-mounted guards helps close small gaps, limit water intrusion, and prevent moisture from entering the roof assembly. This added protection contributes to long-term system reliability.

Conclusion

At SnoBlox-Snojax, we design our snow guards and snow retention systems with long-term durability at the center of every decision. Our products are built to withstand years of harsh winter weather, unlike short-lived options that break down after only a few seasons. Our commitment to clear communication and individualized support has helped us build strong relationships with customers across the United States and around the world. From the earliest planning discussions through the final installation steps, we provide practical guidance, straightforward instructions, and prompt assistance. Resources like our Snow Guard Buyer's Guide and detailed Best Practices guide give building owners the knowledge they need to match the right system to their roof profile and local snow conditions. Whether someone reaches out by phone or email, they receive personalized recommendations, help selecting the correct products, and quick responses to installation or ordering questions. By simplifying each stage of the process and offering dependable expertise, we ensure every customer ends up with a snow retention system that performs exactly as it should.

Do you have a metal roof from a different manufacturer?

Visit our "Snow Guard Compatibility by Roof Manufacturer" resource page for detailed information on which snow guards and snow retention systems are compatible with your metal roof.

Disclaimer

The views, recommendations, and information presented in this blog are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of the featured panel manufacturer, its brands, subsidiaries, or parent companies. Customers are strongly encouraged to reach out directly to the roof panel manufacturer for inquiries regarding snow guard compatibility with their products, as well as to address any potential warranty issues that may arise following the installation of our products.