Snow Guards for ATAS International, Inc. Standing Seam Concealed Fastener Metal Roofs

The modern metal roofing market presents customers with extensive panel options, making choosing the appropriate snow guard somewhat daunting. While having many choices may seem advantageous initially, it can also lead to decision fatigue when selecting. This new blog series spotlights leading metal panel manufacturers and provides tailored recommendations for compatible snow guard solutions. We aim to guide customers through this process, empowering them to make informed decisions without feeling overwhelmed or uncertain. By highlighting the various metal roofing panel options and their corresponding snow guard compatibility, we aim to simplify the selection process and ensure customers can confidently choose the right snow guard for their specific needs.

Snow Guards for ATAS International, Inc. Standing Seam Concealed Fastener Metal Roofs

ATAS International is a thriving, family-owned metal manufacturing company that has experienced remarkable growth over the past six decades. Established in 1963 in New York by Jacobus Bus, the company initially focused on providing construction materials, but under the leadership of his sons, Dick and Jim, it has expanded its operations and product offerings significantly. With facilities across multiple states, ATAS manufactures various metal building materials, including wall cladding, roofing, and ceilings. The company has earned recognition as a top workplace, reflecting its commitment to its employees, and the next generation of the Bus family has taken on active roles, ensuring the continuation of the family's legacy. ATAS has maintained its focus on quality and customer service throughout its evolution, cementing its reputation as an industry leader in the metal manufacturing sector.

Colonial Seam Metal Panels

The Colonial Seam metal roof system provides a timeless, classic aesthetic for new and retrofit roofing projects. The panels are installed by interlocking with the previous panel and securing them using mechanical fasteners through pre-punched slots, allowing for the necessary expansion and contraction of the materials. The adjacent panel conceals the fasteners. This positive locking mechanism effectively prevents the panels from sliding apart. Customers can choose from two seam heights of 1" and 1½" with four panel widths: 11⅜, 12⅜, 15⅜, and 16⅜ inches. These panels are available in either lightweight 0.032-inch aluminum or durable 24-gauge metallic-coated steel construction. The Colonial Seam's minimum recommended roof slope is 3:12, making it suitable for various residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

The Colonial Seam panel offers a variety of snow retention solutions due to its multiple panel widths and seam shapes. This panel is well-suited for use with glue-down polycarbonate snow guards. To ensure proper sealing and prevent moisture from seeping underneath the snow guard, applying a more generous amount of adhesive may be necessary to account for the panel's ribs. Failure to adequately seal any gaps could result in snowmelt becoming trapped beneath the guards, leading to re-freezing and detachment, ultimately causing system failure. Customers seeking larger snow guards compatible with this panel can choose from the IceJax II, Snojax II, or SnoBlox Ace.

Those customers preferring smaller footprint guards may opt for the Deuce and IceJax I. To promote the safer shedding of snow and ice, the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M are ideal choices. The rib shape of the Colonial Seam panel allows compatibility with all clamp-on snow guards, including SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar systems, utilizing either standard SnoBar clamps or RoofClamp attachment options. Because copper and aluminum are softer than steel, it may be necessary to install more rows of rails on these roofs than steel roofs to account for the difference in panel strength.

Dutch Seam® Metal Panels

The Dutch Seam® is a structural, continuous standing seam metal roof panel system with an integral seam to prevent issues like "blow-off" or "creeping." The panels are available in 11", 15", and 19¼" widths, in 16 oz. copper, .032, and .040 aluminum, and 24 or 22-gauge metallic-coated steel options, with smooth or stucco embossed finishes in over 40 standard colors. Installation is straightforward, as the panels snap onto the previously installed panel and are fastened with clips, accommodating expansion and contraction through the integral seam design, making the Dutch Seam® a durable, aesthetic, and easy-to-install metal roofing option for both roof and wall applications. This panel has a 1½" high rib and requires a minimum slope of 2:12.

The Dutch Seam® panel offers a range of snow retention options due to its diverse panel widths and seam shapes, similar to the Colonial Seam. This panel works well with glue-down polycarbonate snow guards. To ensure proper sealing and prevent moisture from seeping underneath the snow guard, applying a more generous amount of adhesive may be necessary to account for the panel's ribs, striations, and optional texture. Failing to seal any gaps adequately could result in snowmelt trapped beneath the guards, leading to re-freezing and detachment, ultimately causing system failure. Customers seeking larger snow guards compatible with this panel can choose from the IceJax II, Snojax II, or SnoBlox Ace.

Those preferring smaller footprint guards may opt for the Deuce and IceJax I. To promote the safer shedding of snow and ice, the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M are ideal choices. The rib shape of the Dutch Seam panel allows compatibility with all clamp-on snow guards, including SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar systems, utilizing either standard SnoBar clamps or RoofClamp attachment options. Because copper and aluminum are softer than steel, it may be necessary to install more rows of rails on these roofs than steel roofs to account for the difference in panel strength.

1” Field-Lok™ Metal Panels

The 1" Field-Lok panel is a non-structural roof panel with a unique mechanical seam design. The manufacturer has tested this panel to meet UL 580 Class 90 performance standards. You can install this panel using either an expansion or fixed clip system. One of the main features of the 1" Field-Lok panel is its ability to be curved, with or without plank ribs, allowing for creative architectural accents over entrances, walkways, and other areas. The panel is available in various material options, including aluminum, zinc, stainless steel, galvanized steel, and copper, providing flexibility to match various project requirements. Standard panel widths are offered at 13.5", 17.5", and 21.75", with custom widths also available. Overall, the 1" Field-Lok panel provides a durable and versatile roofing solution with a unique mechanical seam design, allowing for functional and aesthetic applications in various commercial and residential projects. This panel requires a 2:12 slope requirement, depending on climate conditions.

The 1" Field-Lok panel offers a range of snow retention solutions due to its diverse panel widths and seam shape. This panel is compatible with a variety of glue-down polycarbonate snow guards. To ensure proper sealing and prevent moisture from seeping underneath the snow guard, applying a more generous amount of adhesive may be necessary to account for the panel's ribs, striations, and optional texture. Failing to seal any gaps adequately could result in snowmelt trapped beneath the guards, leading to re-freezing and detachment, ultimately causing system failure. Customers seeking larger snow guards compatible with this panel can choose from the IceJax II, Snojax II, or SnoBlox Ace.

Conversely, those preferring smaller footprint guards may opt for the Deuce and IceJax I. To promote the safer shedding of snow and ice, the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M are ideal choices. The rib shape of the 1" Field-Lok panel allows compatibility with all clamp-on snow guards, including SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar systems, utilizing either standard SnoBar clamps or RoofClamp attachment options. Because copper and aluminum are softer than steel, it may be necessary to install more rows of rails on these roofs than steel roofs to account for the difference in panel strength. When mounting this panel on a radiused roof, you should avoid using glue-down pad-style guards. Instead, we recommend using clamp-on guards or rails. Pad-style guards require a perfectly flat mounting surface for proper installation.

1½” Field-Lok™ Metal Panels

The 1 1/2" Field-Lok panel is a non-structural, mechanically seamed single-locked or double-locked roof panel installed with an expansion clip. The design features a traditional standing seam appearance. The standard profile includes plank ribs, and the design can also incorporate curved elements with or without plank ribs. The panel is available in various materials in different gauges and colors, including aluminum, metallic-coated steel, zinc, and stainless steel. It has a minimum recommended roof slope of 2:12, depending on climate conditions. It provides advantages of low-slope metal roofing, such as years of low cost and maintenance, water runoff, a long service life, and recyclability. Standard panel widths are offered at 12.5", 16.5", and 20.75", with custom widths also available. This panel, like the 1" Field-Lok, can also be curved, with or without plank ribs, allowing for creative architectural accents over entrances, walkways, and other areas.

The 1 1/2" Field-Lok panel offers various snow retention options due to its different panel widths and seam shape. This panel works with many types of glue-down polycarbonate snow guards. You may need more adhesive to properly seal the panel and prevent moisture from getting under the snow guard because of the panel's ribs, grooves, and optional stucco embossed texture. If you don't seal the gaps, moisture could get trapped under the guards, leading to re-freezing and the guards coming loose, causing the system to fail. Customers have several snow guard choices that work with this panel. Larger options include the IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace. Smaller footprint guards like the Deuce and IceJax I are also available. The SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M are excellent for safer snow and ice shedding. The panel's rib shape allows it to work with all clamp-on snow guards, such as SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar systems. These can use standard SnoBar clamps or RoofClamp attachments. Remember that copper and aluminum roofs are softer than steel, so you may need to install more rows to account for the difference in panel strength. For roofs with a curve, avoid using glue-down pad-style guards. Instead, we recommend clamp-on guards or rails. Pad-style guards require a perfectly flat surface for correct installation.

2” Field-Lok™ Metal Panels

The 2" Field-Lok™ series is a mechanically seamed metal panel system designed for roofing applications. These structural panels can be single-locked or double-locked to meet varying load requirements. The panels can be seamed with a single fold for aesthetic or personal preferences, resulting in a wider seam appearance. Interestingly, this single-fold design maintains the structural integrity of a load-bearing panel while also providing the reliability of a weather-tight roof. The panel system utilizes an expansion clip installation mechanism, which allows for thermal movement and a secure fit. It features a classic standing seam look, with plank-style ribs as the standard profile. These panels are available in diverse materials across various gauges and color options, including aluminum, metallic-coated steel, copper, zinc, and stainless steel. The 2" Field-Lok™ panels have a minimum recommended roof slope of ½:12, which can vary based on climate conditions. They offer the advantages commonly associated with low-slope metal roofing, such as years of low-cost maintenance, adequate water runoff, long service life, and recyclability. Standard panel widths are 15.25" and 19.5". The company does not market this 2" version for curved roof designs, unlike the 1" and 1 1/2" Field-Lok panels.

The 2" Field-Lok metal roofing panel offers diverse snow retention options thanks to its varying panel widths and seam shape. This panel is compatible with a multitude of glue-down polycarbonate snow guard products. You may need to apply additional adhesive to properly seal the panel and prevent moisture from infiltrating beneath the snow guard due to the panel's ribs, grooves, and optional stucco-embossed texture. If you do not effectively seal the gaps, moisture could become trapped under the guards, leading to re-freezing and the potential for the guards to become dislodged, causing the system to fail. Customers have several snow guard choices that work seamlessly with this panel. Larger options include the IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace. Compact footprint guards like the Deuce and IceJax I are also available. We recommend the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M for safer snow and ice shedding. The panel's rib design is compatible with our clamp-on snow guards, such as SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar systems. These can utilize standard SnoBar clamps or RoofClamp attachments. It's important to note that copper and aluminum roofs are softer than steel, so you may need to install more rows of snow guards to account for the difference in panel strength.

2⅜” Field-Lok™, FLS Series Metal Panels

The 2⅜" Field-Lok™, FLS Series standing seam panel boasts a Triple-Lok design that has demonstrated superior wind uplift resistance compared to other roofing systems in testing. This panel features a "hooked in" standing seam with a double-folded construction, which helps prevent seam failure between supports, inhibits sidelap unfurling or unzipping, and bolsters the structural integrity of the roof system. Installed with expansion clips, the Field-Lok™ panels accommodate the roof's expansion and contraction. The adjacent panel conceals the fasteners and clips, and a power-driven mechanical seamer securely interlocks the panels on-site. Architects favor the flat pan/vertical rib profile of the Field-Lok™ panel for its exceptional performance and classic aesthetic. Owing to its strength, watertightness, and visual appeal, the Field-Lok™ meets stringent building codes and specifications, making it a versatile choice for various climatic conditions. The extra-high, locked standing seam further bolsters the structural integrity of the roof system. These panels are available in multiple materials across various gauges and color options, including aluminum, metallic-coated steel, and zinc. The Field-Lok™ panels measuring 2⅜ inches require a minimum roof slope of ½:12 as recommended. The specific climate conditions of the area can modify this requirement. They offer the benefits commonly associated with low-slope metal roofing, such as years of low-maintenance operation, effective water runoff, long service life, and recyclability. ATAS offers standard panel widths at 13.75" and 18". This 2⅜" version does not intend for curved roof designs, unlike the 1" and 1 1/2" Field-Lok panels.

The 2⅜" Field-Lok metal roofing panel offers diverse snow retention solutions thanks to its varying panel widths and seam shape. This panel is compatible with a multitude of glue-down polycarbonate snow guard products. You may need to apply additional adhesive to properly seal the panel and prevent moisture from infiltrating beneath the snow guard due to the panel's ribs, grooves, and optional stucco-embossed texture. Customers have several snow guard choices that work seamlessly with this panel, including larger options like the IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace, as well as compact footprint guards like the Deuce and IceJax I or safer snow and ice-shedding alternatives such as the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M. The panel's rib design allows users to use it with all clamp-on snow guards, such as SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar systems. These systems can utilize standard SnoBar clamps or RoofClamp attachments. Note that copper and aluminum roofs are softer than steel. Therefore, you may need more rows of snow guards to account for the difference in panel strength.

PC™ System Metal Panels

The PC Systems are non-structural standing seam metal roof panels. These panels contain three main components: the pan, a separate seam or batten, and a clip. The seam covers the clips, obscuring the fastening mechanism. The panels come in standard widths, including 11¼", 12⅝", and 15¼", with custom widths also available. Installers can curve these products in concave or convex styles. They offer smooth or embossed finishes in over 30 stock and custom colors. The base metal options include 24-gauge metallic-coated steel, .032 or .040 aluminum with a 70% PVDF coating, 16-ounce copper, and zinc. The PC Systems are not structural components and require installation on a solid foundation. Tapered or curved applications are possible. The PC System panels have a minimum necessary slope of 3:12.

This particular roofing panel utilizes a batten cap or batten strip for the rib, making certain types of snow retention systems incompatible, such as clamp-on individual snow guards like the SnoCleat RC and SnoCleat RCT, as well as clamp-on snow rail systems like the SnoBar and ColorBar. Companies often incorporate batten strips for aesthetic purposes. Still, clamp-on solutions are not recommended in this case, as the clamps would only attach to the strip itself, failing to obtain the necessary torque on the main panels, potentially leading to the strips disengaging from the roof and resulting in significant and costly repairs. This panel is compatible with various snow-retaining, glue-down polycarbonate snow guard models, such as the SnoBlox Deuce, SnoBlox Ace, IceJax II, and Snojax II. For those seeking a safer, more controlled method of snow and ice shedding, the SnowBreaker system can be a viable option, as it helps break the ice and snow into smaller chunks, slowing its release from the roof. The adhesive recommended for this installation method is Surebond SB-190, the industry standard for glue-down snow retention systems.

Monarch™ Metal Panels

The Monarch Batten Seam is a multi-functional metal panel system for roofing and wall cladding applications. This unique panel features an integrated batten and seam, where the batten seam and lock are part of the panel. The vertical "leg" formed on the panel acts as an additional water barrier, and a clip is hooked over this leg to accommodate thermal expansion. The Monarch Batten Seam panels interlock with each other, concealing all clips and fasteners beneath the batten of the adjoining panel for a clean, seamless appearance. This panel utilizes a one-piece installation process, eliminating the need for cross seams and helping to reduce on-site labor costs. These panels can be installed without any specialized equipment, as they do not require zipping or seaming together. The Monarch Batten Seam panels are available in various materials, including aluminum, metallic-coated steel, 55% Al-Zn alloy-coated steel, and copper. The panels come in 8", 12", and 16" widths with a 2" rib height and offer smooth or stucco embossed textures to provide versatile design options. Vertical or horizontal installation on walls allows for flexibility in meeting various project requirements.

The Monarch Batten Seam's rib shape limits the available options for snow guards. Due to the wide batten seam, the panel is incompatible with clamp-on individual snow guards or continuous rail systems. However, customers have several snow guard choices that work seamlessly with this panel, including larger options like the IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace, as well as compact footprint guards like the Deuce and IceJax I or safer snow and ice-shedding alternatives such as the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M. To ensure proper sealing and prevent moisture from seeping underneath the snow guard, applying a more generous amount of adhesive may be necessary to account for the panel's striations and optional texture.

PC System Batten Seam Metal Panels

The PC System Batten Seam is a metal roofing solution with three parts: the pan, a separate batten or seam, and a clip. The seam snaps over the clips, concealing the fastening mechanism. This system is not a structural panel and requires installation on a solid surface. It comes in 1-inch and 2-inch seam heights, with standard widths of 11.25 inches, 12.625 inches, and 15.25 inches. Custom widths are also available. The PC System Batten Seam comes in .032 and .040 aluminum, 24 and 22-gauge metallic-coated steel, 16 oz. copper, and 24 gauge zinc. Unlike the curved PC System standing seam panels, this batten seam style cannot be curved. This panel requires a minimum roof slope of 3:12.

Like the Monarch Batten Seam panels, the PC System Batten Seam presents limitations when selecting compatible snow guard solutions. The wide, separate batten strip design restricts the available options. Clamp-on individual snow guards like the SnoCleat RC and RCT are incompatible, and clamp-on snow rails also cannot be used with this panel. As a result, glue-down polycarbonate pad-style snow guards remain the sole viable choice for this roofing system. Several snow guard products that work well with the PC System Batten Seam include larger options such as the IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace, along with more compact guards like the Deuce and IceJax I. Additionally, safer snow and ice-shedding alternatives, such as the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M, can be considered. To ensure proper sealing and prevent moisture intrusion beneath the snow guard, applying a more generous amount of adhesive may be necessary to account for the panel's striations and any optional texture.

Navigating the Selection of Snow Guards for ATAS Standing Seam Roofing

1. Understanding Ground Snow Load: A Critical Consideration

Knowing your ground snow load is essential when choosing snow retention systems for metal roofs. Most snow guard and rail systems work well for ground snow loads up to 45 pounds per square foot (psf), but for higher loads, you need snow rails with enhanced holding capacity. If your roof panels aren't compatible with rails, contact the manufacturer for their recommended snow guard solution. You can find ground snow load data through online searches, building plans, or local authorities.

2. Timing Matters for Glue-Down Snow Guards

While clamp-on guards and rail systems can be installed year-round, timing is crucial for glue-down guards. The industry-standard adhesive, Surebond SB-190, requires about 28 days at 50°F to cure fully. Installation is optimal for the USA and Canada in late spring or early summer. After 24 hours, rain won't affect the adhesive. However, Surebond SB-190 on copper roofs is discouraged due to potential chemical reactions that could accelerate panel corrosion.

3. Test Fit Before Purchasing

Before finalizing your order, test fit any snow guards, clamps, brackets, or IceStoppers to ensure compatibility with your project. Our website allows you to order samples without minimums and offers 27" and 20" bar kits. Investing in samples can prevent costly mistakes during installation, making it a prudent precaution.

4. Proper Layout is Key for Performance

Regardless of the snow retention system, seeking layout guidance from the manufacturer is crucial. We offer free advice and resources, including spacing charts and custom quote request forms. The system should span the entire roof, typically with multiple rows ascending the slope to distribute weight evenly. You should not place isolated snow guards only above doorways, HVAC units, or chimneys because this increases the risk of failure.

5. Color-Matching Options Available

Our metal snow retention solutions offer color-matching capabilities. The SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, and ColorBar Snow rail systems are compatible with slide-in metal strips that match their faces to your roof's color. We also provide custom powder coating services to ensure a seamless aesthetic integration. Powder coating may require additional production and delivery time, and custom colors may incur surcharges.

6. Avoid Screw-Down Systems on Standing Seam Roofs

Never use screw-down, mechanically fastened snow guards or rails on standing seam metal roofs. This installation method can pose risks to the panels due to the roof's floating nature and thermal expansion/contraction, potentially leading to leaks, costly repairs, and voiding the manufacturer's warranty. Instead, opt for clamp-style or adhesive-mounted snow retention systems compatible with standing seam roofs.

7. Consider IceStoppers for Snow Rail Systems

When using SnoBar or ColorBar snow rail systems on standing seam roofs, it's advisable to incorporate IceStopper attachments, especially in areas above pedestrian walkways or parking spaces. IceStoppers can be installed during the initial setup or added later as a retrofit option. Ensuring proper IceStopper spacing is crucial for effectively managing snow and ice accumulation.

Conclusion

Selecting the right snow guard for your project can be complex, but we're here to help. Check out our " What Works and What Doesn't" page and Snow Guard Buyer's Guide for more information. If you have any questions or need assistance with your order, please email us at support@snojax.com or call 1-800-766-5291.