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Snow Guards For AMS (Architectural Metal Solutions) Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels
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Snow Guards For AMS (Architectural Metal Solutions) Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels

Posted by Derek Gamble - SnoBlox-Snojax Specialist on Oct 8th 2024

See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Architectural Metal Solutions Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

AMS Logo - Image courtesy of https://ams-wa.com/

"What Are the Best Snow Guards for Metal Roofs?"

Winter presents unique challenges for buildings with standing seam metal roofs, mainly due to the risk of sudden snow and ice slides. These events can endanger people, property, and pets below. The smooth surface of these roofs increases the likelihood of snow avalanches, highlighting the importance of snow retention systems. Contractors can customize snow guards and snow rail systems to fit various metal roof designs, serving as essential safety features. When implementing these protective measures, you must consider several critical factors, including the roof's pitch, panel layout, and typical local weather conditions. We offer various educational resources to help property owners make informed decisions. These include our blog posts, informational pages, and a comprehensive metal panel manufacturer database compatible with specific snow retention solutions. These educational efforts and innovative approaches focus on reducing the dangers associated with snow and ice accumulation, creating safer environments in regions that experience significant snowfall. This proactive strategy addresses the unique challenges of winter conditions on standing seam metal roofs, ensuring people's and property's safety.

AMS Standing Seam Roofing Installed - Image courtesy of https://ams-wa.com/

Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels by AMS (Architectural Metal Solutions)

Architectural Metal Solutions, commonly known as AMS, has become a leading provider of premium exterior building materials. Their product range encompasses high-quality metal roofing, siding, and soffit panels, positioning them at the forefront of the architectural metal industry. AMS prides itself on its commitment to innovation, superior quality, and fostering enduring partnerships. They offer comprehensive support to architects, contractors, and clients throughout the project lifecycle, from initial concept to final implementation. AMS caters to a diverse clientele, offering versatile solutions suitable for residential and large-scale commercial constructions. They design their products with a focus on versatility, longevity, and straightforward installation. In the Pacific Northwest, AMS has gained recognition for its extensive selection of cladding and exterior envelope materials. These include high-density fiber cement, phenolic panels, extruded aluminum, and advanced pressure-equalized rainscreen systems. The company's manufacturing process employs cutting-edge technology, ensuring all products meet or exceed UL and ASTM industry performance standards. AMS has cultivated a broad network of top-tier manufacturers, enabling them to provide various exterior solutions. This extensive product range allows AMS to assist clients in realizing their design aspirations with precision and dependability, regardless of the project's scale or complexity.

AMS Snap Lock Panel

The AMS Snap Lock Panel is a premier choice for architects and contractors, blending superior structural performance with contemporary architectural aesthetics. Its ease of installation and versatility make it suitable for various commercial, industrial, and residential projects. The panel's design incorporates a 1.75" rib height, crafted to deliver a flawless finish. A continuous interlocking seam enhances its structural integrity, providing robust resistance against wind and water infiltration. One of the panel's key features is its concealed fastener clip system, which eliminates the need for exposed fasteners and accommodates thermal expansion and contraction. The AMS Snap Lock Panel offers flexibility in design with seam widths ranging from 12" to 24", catering to diverse architectural preferences. It is available in various materials, including different gauges of steel, aluminum, stainless steel, copper, terne-coated steel, and cold-rolled steel. An extensive color palette enhances the product's aesthetic versatility, offering over 50 Kynar-painted options, 33 SMP colors, and 25 polyester colors. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Architectural Metal Solutions Snap Lock Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

AMS Snap Lock Panel Rendering and Dimensions - Image courtesy of https://ams-wa.com/

Additionally, customers can create custom colors to personalize the product further. This wide range of choices ensures that the AMS Snap Lock Panel can meet the visual requirements of virtually any project. Moreover, the panel's durability and reliability are backed by optional weather-tightness warranties of up to 20 years, making it a trusted solution for various applications, including roofing, mansards, fascia, and sidewalls. Our snow retention solutions are highly compatible with this roofing system, especially adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guards. Correct adhesive application is essential to avoid problems such as refreezing and moisture-related detachment. We offer a diverse selection of snow guard models, including larger options like IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace, as well as smaller variants such as the Deuce and IceJax I. We offer the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M models for additional protection during snow and ice shedding. The panel's rib design is suitable for clamp-on snow guards, including SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar rail systems, which can be mounted using stainless steel SnoBar clamps or aluminum RoofClamp alternatives. We recommend conducting a test fit with a clamp sample before ordering these systems. When working with aluminum or copper roof panels, installers might need to add more rows of rails than steel alternatives. These materials have lower rigidity, requiring extra support to maintain strength and stability.

AMS Pro Lock Panel

The AMS Pro Lock Panel is a cutting-edge standing seam roofing system that combines structural robustness with aesthetic appeal. This versatile panel is suitable for a wide array of projects, spanning commercial, industrial, institutional, and residential sectors, offering a sleek, contemporary look without compromising on functionality. The Pro Lock panel adapts effortlessly to diverse roofing requirements. It has a 1.5-inch rib height and can come in continuous lengths. Its interlocking seam design bolsters structural performance, enhancing resistance to wind and water - a crucial advantage in regions susceptible to severe weather conditions. The range of panel widths, from 12 to 24 inches, further demonstrates the system's flexibility by accommodating various roof dimensions and styles. The Pro Lock panel system boasts an impressive array of material options, including galvanized steel, Zincalume, aluminum, stainless steel, copper, terne-coated steel, and cold-rolled steel. This extensive selection enables customization to meet specific project needs, whether prioritizing durability, visual appeal, or a combination of both. Additionally, the system offers a vast color palette, with over 50 Kynar-painted options, 33 SMP colors, 25 polyester colors, and the possibility of custom colors upon request. A vital feature of the Pro-Lock panel is its concealed fastener clip system, which eliminates exposed fasteners. This design choice contributes to a clean, uninterrupted aesthetic. The system accommodates thermal expansion and contraction, protecting the roof from long-term damage caused by temperature fluctuations. Installers can fit the versatile panel over open framing, solid substrates, or rigid insulation, showcasing its adaptability. Beyond its primary roofing solution, the Pro Lock panel system proves equally effective for mansards, fascia, and even sidewalls, offering a durable and weathertight solution across various architectural elements. Optional weather tightness warranties are available for added peace of mind, ranging from 20 to 40 years, depending on the specific system configuration chosen. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Architectural Metal Solutions Pro Lock Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

AMS Pro Lock Panel Rendering and Dimensions - Image courtesy of https://ams-wa.com/

This roofing system accommodates various snow retention solutions, with a particular emphasis on adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guards. Proper adhesive application is critical to prevent issues like refreezing and moisture-induced detachment. Customers can choose from a wide range of snow guard models, including larger options such as the IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace, as well as smaller variants like the Deuce and IceJax I. For enhanced protection during snow and ice shedding, we offer the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M. The panel's rib design allows for the installation of clamp-on snow guards, such as SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar rail systems, which can be mounted using either stainless steel SnoBar clamps or aluminum RoofClamp alternatives. We recommend a test fit with a clamp sample before ordering your system. Unlike steel, aluminum and copper roof panels exhibit less stiffness, which may necessitate the incorporation of supplementary rail rows during the installation process to ensure adequate structural integrity.

AMS Armor Lock Panel

The AMS Armor Lock Panel is a premium roofing solution combining architectural elegance and exceptional structural performance. This standing seam panel, featuring a 2-inch leg height, is designed to excel in low-slope applications, offering superior weather resistance. The panel's single or double lock leg is mechanically seamed on-site, creating a formidable barrier against air and water infiltration, which is crucial in areas prone to severe weather conditions. Flexibility in design is a vital attribute of the Armor Lock panel, with widths ranging from 12 to 24 inches to accommodate various project requirements. The system employs concealed fastener clips, eliminating the need for exposed fasteners and allowing for thermal movement, thus preserving the roof's structural integrity over time. You can install this versatile panel over open framing, solid substrates, or rigid insulation. It is suitable for various commercial, industrial, and institutional projects that demand durability and weather-tightness. The Armor Lock panel is available in multiple materials, including galvanized steel, Zincalume, aluminum, stainless steel, copper, terne-coated steel, and cold-rolled steel. This diverse selection ensures that the panel can meet specific project requirements in terms of both performance and aesthetics. AMS further enhances customization options by offering an extensive range of finishes, including over 50 Kynar-painted colors, 33 SMP colors, 25 polyester colors, and custom color options upon request. For added assurance, AMS provides the Armor Lock panel's optional weather-tightness warranties of up to 40 years. Its exceptional ability to maintain a weathertight seal in low-slope roofing applications has made it one of AMS's most frequently specified standing seam panels for challenging environments. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Architectural Metal Solutions Armor Lock Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

AMS Armor Lock Panel Rendering and Dimensions - Image courtesy of https://ams-wa.com/

This roofing system works with our various snow retention solutions, particularly adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guards. Proper adhesive application is vital to avoid problems like refreezing and moisture-related detachment. We provide an extensive selection of snow guard models, ranging from larger options like IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace to smaller variants like the Deuce and IceJax I. The SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M are available for additional protection during snow and ice shedding. The panel's rib design is compatible with clamp-on snow guards, including SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar rail systems, which mount using stainless steel SnoBar clamps or aluminum RoofClamp alternatives. We advise conducting a test fit with a clamp sample before ordering these systems to ensure proper compatibility. Installing aluminum and copper roofing materials often necessitates extra support structures, such as additional rows of rails, to counteract their inherent flexibility compared to more rigid steel panels.

AMS (Architectural Metal Solutions) Compatibility Chart for Snow Guards

  Snap Lock Profile Pro Lock Profile Armor Lock Profile
IceJax I Glue Down YES YES YES
IceJax II Glue Down YES YES YES
SnoBlox Deuce Glue Down YES YES YES
SnoBlox Ace Glue Down YES YES YES
Snojax II Glue Down YES YES YES
SnowBreaker Glue Down YES YES YES
SnowBreaker 3M YES YES YES
SnoBar Standing Seam YES YES YES
ColorBar Standing Seam YES YES YES
SnoBar RCB-3 YES YES YES
ColorBar RCB-3 YES YES YES
SnoBar 2-Bar YES YES YES
ColorBar 2-Bar YES YES YES
SnoCleat RC YES YES YES
SnoCleat RCT YES YES YES

Considerations for Adding Snow Guards to Standing Seam Roofs by AMS (Architectural Metal Solutions)

Assess Regional Snowfall Patterns

Research your area's typical ground snow accumulation to inform your system choice. Individual guards or rail systems may suffice for regions with snow loads up to 45 psf. Consider more robust rail systems for adequate protection in areas with heavier snowfall.

Plan Your Snow Retention Layout

Create a comprehensive strategy to safeguard the entire roof surface. Consider multiple rows and distribute retention elements evenly to prevent stress concentration if necessary. To ensure optimal positioning, utilize resources like our spacing guidelines and quote request tools.

Protect Your Roof's Structure

When selecting attachment methods, prioritize those that preserve your roof's integrity, especially for standing seam metal roofing. Opt for non-invasive, surface-mounted systems that avoid penetrating the roof, such as clamp-on or adhesive-mounted options. This approach helps maintain weatherproofing and warranty conditions.

Coordinate Snow Guards with Roof Design

Select snow retention solutions that complement your roof's appearance. Explore customizable options like color-matched powder-coated systems or custom slide-in metal components. Consider local powder coating services or DIY painting methods for quick personalization.

Schedule Installation Strategically

For adhesive-based systems, plan installation during warmer months, ideally late spring or early summer. Consider ambient temperatures to determine appropriate curing times for optimal adhesion. Many high-quality adhesives, like Surebond SB-190, require several weeks at moderate temperatures to fully bond.

Address Ice-Related Challenges

Explore specialized ice prevention accessories for areas prone to icing. Properly selecting and placing these IceStopper components is crucial, especially on roofs with higher seams, to maximize their effectiveness.

Verify System Compatibility

Before installation, test-fit system components to ensure they're compatible with your roof type. This crucial step helps avoid costly mistakes and ensures smooth integration. We offer individual parts and accessories for different systems, which can be purchased separately for testing.

Conclusion

SnoBlox-Snojax takes pride in offering outstanding customer support for snow guard installations, focusing on providing enduring solutions rather than quick fixes. Our primary objective is to ensure that our clients fully grasp the intricacies of our product line. We utilize a comprehensive strategy that blends personalized support with various resources, equipping our customers with the essential knowledge and tools for successful implementation. By offering direct access to our support team and furnishing practical guides and tools, we enable our clients to maximize the benefits of our products. Our unwavering commitment to quality and real-world effectiveness underscores our dedication to delivering top-tier solutions, showcasing our devotion to product excellence and customer satisfaction. We have crafted valuable resources such as our Snow Guard Buyer's Guide and a "What Works and What Doesn't" page to aid clients in making well-informed decisions. These materials provide crucial insights and practical information. We actively encourage customers seeking assistance with their orders to contact our support team via phone or email, ensuring they receive the necessary guidance to achieve optimal results with our snow guard products.

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.

THE SNOBLOX-SNOJAX SNOW GUARDS DIFFERENCE

  • Fast Shipping Times Fast Shipping Times
    “In Stock” orders processed Mon–Fri same or next day, except for holidays. See Transit Times.
  •  Made in America Made in America
    All of our snow guard and snow retention products are made right here in America.
  • Lifetime Warranty Lifetime Warranty
    All of our snow guard and snow retention products come with a life time warranty. See Warranty Policy.
  • Manufacturer  Compatibility Manufacturer Compatibility
    Our database of compatible snow guards for various Roof Panel Manufacturers and their panels.