Snow Guard Solutions for Mueller Exposed-Fastener Roof Panels

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

Which Snow Guards Work Best with Mueller’s Exposed-Fastener Panels?

Metal roofing systems with exposed fasteners are especially vulnerable to sudden releases of snow and ice when colder weather arrives.

Large sheets of snow and ice can break free all at once, creating what many call rooftop avalanches. Because exposed-fastener panels have smooth surfaces, snow often slides off in large sections rather than melting slowly. When this occurs, anything positioned below the eaves, such as people, pets, vehicles, landscaping, or outdoor equipment, can be in harm's way. To help manage these risks, we provide snow retention options tailored to specific panel profiles and regional weather demands. Installers can choose between individual pad-style guards or continuous rail systems, allowing flexibility for different roof pitches and panel layouts. Our blogs, installation resources, compatibility charts, and manufacturer-specific guides help contractors and property owners select the right setup. Whether your area sees occasional flurries or heavy winter storms, snow retention plays a key role in controlling how snow releases from a metal roof.

About Mueller and Its Exposed-Fastener Panels

Mueller Inc. has become a trusted name in metal buildings and residential roofing across Texas and the Southwest. Established more than 90 years ago in Ballinger, Texas, the company has consistently emphasized American manufacturing, dependable craftsmanship, and attentive customer support. Unlike many competitors that outsource production, Mueller continues to build its products domestically to maintain quality and consistency. Today, the company employs nearly 900 people and operates 38 retail locations supported by manufacturing facilities in Amarillo, Ballinger, and Huntsville, Texas; Oak Grove, Louisiana; and Phoenix, Arizona. Mueller’s growth is rooted in its skilled workforce and its ability to innovate without sacrificing standards. In July 2024, the company joined Cornerstone Building Brands, expanding Cornerstone’s portfolio while preserving Mueller’s long-standing reputation in steel buildings and residential metal roofing.

AP Panel

The AP Panel is a versatile exposed-fastener option used for both roofing and siding, valued for its straightforward installation and broad application range. This panel features tapered ribs spaced 12 inches apart, 1 inch high, produced from 26-gauge steel. It comes in numerous painted finishes backed by long-term performance warranties, making it a practical choice for residential, agricultural, and light commercial projects. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Mueller AP Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

The AP Panel supports a wide variety of our snow retention products. Homeowners can install stainless steel SnowCatchers in several decorative shapes, including Standard, Sun Burst, Maple Leaf, Fleur-de-lis, Kodiak, and Mustang. The AP panel also works with multiple polycarbonate snow guards, such as the SnoBlox Deuce, Icejax II, and SnoBlox Ace, which can be attached using screws or adhesive. Installers must mechanically fasten the Snojax I. For those who prefer to let snow and ice break apart and fall in smaller, safer pieces, the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M systems offer an effective solution. These products help manage snow movement while reducing risks around the building. In regions with snow loads above 45 psf or for homeowners seeking a more streamlined, modern appearance, the SnoBar and ColorBar rail systems are strong alternatives. These rail systems rely on Tall ColorBrackets and butyl tape gaskets to provide a secure, visually appealing way to control snow and ice on the roof.

CPB Panel

Mueller's CPB Panel is a classic corrugated profile that offers traditional aesthetics with improved coverage and durability. It is available in 26-gauge commercial-grade steel. This panel features ribs spaced 2.75 inches apart, 7/8 inch tall. The CPB Panel functions as a standard corrugated exposed-fastener system commonly used for residential, agricultural, and utility structures. Finish options include painted steel with a 45-year paint warranty and Galvalume-type coatings for added corrosion resistance. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Mueller CPB Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

The CPB Panel's signature wavy corrugated shape allows snow guards to be mounted directly on the raised ribs, unlike typical installation practices on other exposed-fastener panels. Several snow retention products are compatible with this profile. The SnoCleat 2.67 can be fastened to the ribs using 3-inch screws. At the same time, the SnoBar and ColorBar rail systems also work well, both using the same ColorBracket 2.67 as the SnoCleat. Installers use six available screw holes to maximize holding strength, but they only need four screws for standard installations. In areas with harsher winter conditions, using all six screws provides additional strength and durability.

PBR Panel

The PBR Panel offers 36 inches of coverage with ribs measuring 1¼ inches tall and spaced 12 inches apart, making it a structural-grade option suitable for both roofing and wall applications. Mueller manufactures this panel in 26-gauge commercial-grade steel. Finish options include Galvalume, galvanized steel, and painted coatings designed for long-term performance and weather resistance. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Mueller PBR Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

The PBR Panel works exceptionally well with a wide range of our snow guard systems. Compatible products include screw-down SnoBar and ColorBar rails, the SnoCleat PBR, and stainless steel SnowCatchers in designs such as Standard Rectangle, Fleur-de-lis, Sun Burst, Maple Leaf, Mustang, and Kodiak. Most of our polycarbonate snow guards can be installed using adhesive or screws, except for the Snojax I, which requires mechanical fastening only. Installers should use Surebond SB-190 only with polycarbonate guards. When installing snow guards on PBR panels, placement and attachment are critical. Smaller guards typically fit centered between the minor ribs in the center of the panel. At the same time, position models like the Snojax II and Icejax II off-center to straddle either the left or right minor rib. Consistency is important; align each guard over the same rib throughout the installation. Installers should avoid fastening snow guards or rails to the high ribs, as this does not provide adequate support. Instead, attachments should be made through the low flats and into solid structural material beneath the panel to ensure maximum strength and long-term reliability.

SSP Panel

Mueller’s SSP Panel is a low-profile residential roofing option designed with a siphon groove and an added bearing leg to enhance water protection. They manufacture this panel from 26-gauge steel. It features ¾-inch ribs spaced 9 inches apart. Homeowners can choose from multiple painted finishes, as well as Galvalume Plus, for an economical, corrosion-resistant alternative. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Mueller SSP Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

This profile supports a range of our snow retention products. Polycarbonate options like the SnoBlox Deuce and SnowBreaker fit cleanly between the minor ribs. "Installers can mount metal options like the SnoCleat PBR and decorative SnowCatchers in the flat center area to achieve both performance and curb appeal. The Snojax I requires mechanical fastening, while installers can mount the IceJax I with either screws or adhesive. For larger roofs or areas with ground snow loads exceeding 45 psf, rail-style systems are a strong choice. When paired with Tall ColorBrackets and the correct fasteners, the ColorBar PBR and SnoBar PBR systems provide dependable snow control across a wide range of climates.

PBU Panel

The PBU Panel delivers 36 inches of coverage with ribs measuring ¾ inch tall and spaced 6 inches apart, giving it a smoother, lower-profile look than traditional R-panel designs. Mueller produces this panel in 26-gauge commercial-grade steel. Finish options include painted steel, Galvalume, and other coated substrates suitable for both roofing and wall applications. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Mueller PBU Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

Because the PBU Panel features narrow flats of roughly 3½ inches, snow retention planning requires careful product selection. Even with these tighter spaces, several effective solutions are available. Polycarbonate snow guards, such as the Ace, Deuce, and Icejax, provide reliable snow-holding performance and can be installed using screws or Surebond SB-190 adhesive. For those who prefer controlled shedding rather than full retention, the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M models help break up sliding snow into smaller, safer pieces. Installers seeking a rail-style system can use Tall ColorBrackets to mechanically mount SnoBar or ColorBar, giving the PBU Panel a robust bar-style snow management option.

Mueller Compatibility Chart for Snow Guards

	AP Panel	CPB Panel	PBR Panel	SSP Panel	PBU Panel
Ecojax	YES	NO	YES	YES	YES
IceJax I	YES	NO	YES	YES	YES
IceJax II	YES	NO	YES	NO	NO
SnoBlox Deuce	YES	NO	YES	YES	YES
Ace	YES	NO	YES	NO	NO
Snojax I	YES	NO	YES	NO	YES
Snojax II	YES	NO	YES	NO	NO
SnowBreaker	YES	NO	YES	YES	YES
SnowCatcher	YES	NO	YES	YES	NO
SnoBar PBR	YES	NO	YES	YES	YES
ColorBar PBR	YES	NO	YES	YES	YES
SnoCleat PBR	YES	NO	YES	YES	YES
SnoCleat 2.67	YES	YES	NO	NO	NO
SnoBar 2.67	NO	YES	NO	NO	NO
ColorBar 2.67	NO	YES	NO	NO	NO

Considerations for Adding Snow Guards to Exposed Fastener Roofs by Mueller

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

Adding sealant beneath screw-attached guards helps seal small gaps, reduce the risk of leaks, and prevent moisture from seeping under the hardware. This extra barrier boosts overall reliability and supports long-term durability.

How Can I Coordinate My Snow Guards with My Roof?

Selecting finishes that closely match or complement the roof’s color and texture allows the guards to blend in more naturally. Powder-coated options provide long-lasting color protection, while DIY coatings offer a quick, cost-effective way to personalize the look.

Should I Test Fit Snow Guards Before Final Installation?

Placing the guards temporarily on the roof before fastening them down helps verify spacing, alignment, and layout. This step ensures a uniform pattern and a clean, professional appearance once installation is complete.

What Snow Guard Solutions Work Best for Unique Roof Shapes?

Roofs with curved, arched, or otherwise unusual profiles often require guards designed specifically for that profile. Standard products may not sit correctly, so custom-matched options and manufacturer placement guidelines are essential for proper performance.

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

Adhesive-mounted guards achieve their strongest bond in warmer conditions, typically late spring through early summer when temperatures remain above 50°F. Warm weather speeds up curing, and products like SureBond SB-190 generally become moisture-resistant within about a day.

How Can I Fasten Snow Guards for Maximum Strength?

For the most secure installation, attach snow guards directly to structural components, such as rafters or purlins, rather than relying solely on the roof panels. Connecting to these framing members increases load capacity and improves long-term holding strength.

Conclusion

At SnoBlox-Snojax, our snow retention systems are engineered with longevity in mind, emphasizing durable solutions that hold up through years of harsh winter weather instead of temporary fixes that wear out quickly. Our reputation has been built on clear communication and individualized support, allowing us to form strong relationships with customers across the United States and around the world. From the earliest planning discussions to the final stages of installation, we provide practical guidance, straightforward instructions, and prompt assistance. Resources like our Snow Guard Buyer’s Guide and comprehensive installation manuals make it easier for building owners to choose the right products for their roof type and regional snow conditions. Whether someone reaches out by phone or email, they can expect personalized recommendations, help selecting the appropriate system, and fast responses to installation or ordering questions. By simplifying the process and offering dependable expertise, we help ensure every customer receives a snow retention solution that performs exactly as intended.

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.