null Skip to main content
Snow Guards For BC Steel Buildings Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels
Sign-up to receive our newsletter

Snow Guards For BC Steel Buildings Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels

Posted by Derek Gamble - SnoBlox-Snojax Specialist on Sep 30th 2024

See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for BC Steel Buildings Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

BC Steel Buildings Logo - Image courtesy of https://www.bcsteel.com/

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

Winter presents unique challenges for buildings with exposed fastener metal roofs, particularly regarding the danger of unexpected snow and ice slides. These events can endanger people, pets, and property. The smooth surface of these roofs increases the likelihood of snow avalanches, emphasizing the need for effective snow retention systems. Contractors can customize snow guards and snow rail systems to fit various metal roof designs as essential safety features. When implementing these protective measures, it's crucial to consider several factors, including the roof's pitch, panel layout, and typical weather conditions in the area. Various educational resources are available, such as our blog posts, informational pages, and a comprehensive database of metal panel manufacturers that are compatible with our snow retention solutions To help property owners make informed decisions. The emphasis on education and innovative approaches aims to reduce the risks associated with snow and ice accumulation, ultimately creating safer environments in areas that experience significant snowfall. These efforts are crucial in addressing the hazards of exposed fastener metal roofs during winter, ensuring people's and property's safety.

BC Steel Buildings Installed roof in red - Image courtesy of https://www.bcsteel.com/

Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels by BC Steel Buildings

BC Steel Buildings, a well-established manufacturer of pre-engineered metal structures, has operated out of Oklahoma City since 1972. The company has earned a strong reputation for delivering top-notch products at competitive prices while maintaining excellent customer service. Their diverse offerings serve various sectors, including commercial, agricultural, aviation, educational, and storage industries. A key strength of BC Steel Buildings is their ability to provide tailored solutions for projects of all sizes, from small business needs to large industrial complexes. The company leverages its engineering expertise and design capabilities to create structures that are not only cost-effective but also energy-efficient and low-maintenance, all customized to meet each client's specific requirements. One of the main benefits of choosing BC Steel's building systems is the significant reduction in labor costs and construction time. This efficiency allows businesses to become operational more quickly while enjoying lower initial and long-term expenses. BC Steel Buildings' commitment to quality is evident in their roof and wall systems, which are engineered for durability and weather resistance, ensuring their structures' longevity and visual appeal.

PBR/AR Panel

BC Steel Buildings offers a popular roofing and wall solution, PBR/AR (Purlin Bearing Rib) panels. Construction professionals widely use these versatile panels in commercial, industrial, and agricultural projects. Typically measuring 36 inches wide with ribs 1-1/4 inches high and spaced 12 inches apart, PBR panels provide builders with a robust and weather-resistant option. 24 and 26-gauge thicknesses are standard. The durability and strength of PBR panels make them suitable for roofing and wall cladding applications. Crafted from heavy-gauge steel and finished with long-lasting coatings, these panels offer exceptional longevity and performance in various weather conditions. Their design often meets stringent wind uplift resistance standards, making them a reliable choice for areas prone to high winds. Installation of PBR panels is straightforward, utilizing an exposed fastening system. The panels' purlin-bearing leg design ensures consistent alignment and proper fastener engagement during installation. Tape sealant is typically used at panel overlaps, effectively preventing water infiltration and air leakage To enhance weather resistance. The fasteners used with these panels are coated with a rust-resistant organic material, further contributing to the system's overall durability. This combination of structural integrity, ease of installation, and aesthetic flexibility makes PBR panels a cost-effective and high-performance choice for various building projects. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for BC Steel Buildings PBR/AR Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

BC Steel Buildings PBR pandel rendering and dimensions - Image courtesy of https://www.bcsteel.com/

This versatile panel integrates with various snow guard and retention systems, accommodating both screw-down options and glue-down solutions. Most polycarbonate snow guards install using either adhesives or screws, and we highly recommend Surebond SB-190 adhesive for its superior bonding qualities. The installation of the Snojax I snow guard requires screws. For optimal performance, proper placement and adherence to model-specific guidelines are crucial. Installers should avoid attaching snow guards directly to the panel's high ribs, as this can compromise stability and strength. Instead, securing the snow guards through the panel's low flats into a solid underlying structure is the most effective method. This approach ensures a robust and reliable snow retention system that withstands harsh winter conditions. Following these installation guidelines, professionals can create an effective snow guard system that significantly reduces the risks associated with snow and ice accumulation on roofs. The result is a durable and dependable solution that enhances the safety and longevity of the roofing structure.

BC Steel Buildings Compatibility Chart for Snow Guards

Considerations for Adding Snow Guards to Exposed Fastener Roofs by BC Steel Buildings

Waterproofing Strategies for Snow Retention Systems

Correctly applying silicone sealant is crucial for screw-mounted polycarbonate snow guards. Ensure complete base coverage and press firmly to remove any air bubbles. While metal guards and rail brackets typically come with waterproof gaskets, some installers add extra sealant around the edges for enhanced protection, though this isn't mandatory.

Assessing Your Roof's Capacity to Bear Snow

When selecting an appropriate snow retention system, it's vital to determine your roof's ability to support snow. Meteorologists use historical data to establish "ground snow loads" for different regions. Individual guards or screw-down rails are usually adequate in areas with 45 PSF or less ground snow loads. However, rail systems have become necessary in areas that experience heavier snowfall.

Harmonizing Snow Guards with Roof Aesthetics

Snow retention systems should blend seamlessly with your roof's color scheme. Customers can order custom color strip inserts for specific systems like SnoCleat and ColorBar or repurpose leftover roofing materials. Metal pad-style guards and rail systems offer the option of powder-coating for an exact match. For quicker solutions, consider local coating services or DIY painting, although powder coating may require more time.

Ideal Timing for Installing Adhesive Snow Guards

The timing of adhesive snow guard installation is crucial. In North America, the optimal period is typically late spring or early summer. The adhesive, Surebond SB190, requires about a month of temperatures above 50°F (10°C) to cure fully. While cold temperatures can hinder the curing process, rain isn't a concern after the initial 24-hour period.

Maximizing Efficiency Through Strategic Snow Guard Placement

The placement of snow guards is critical for their effectiveness. Follow the recommended guidelines for the most efficient arrangement. Avoid concentrating guards in specific isolated areas, such as directly above entrances or pathways, as this can overload the system and lead to failure.

Secure Attachment Techniques for Snow Guards

Proper fastening is essential for mechanically mounted snow guards on roofs. Anchor them to a solid base, ideally using at least an inch of sturdy wood like plywood decking or purlins. For metal structures, direct attachment to metal purlins is preferable. Avoid relying solely on the roof panel for support. Consider using adhesive-mounted guards for less robust roofs if reinforcement isn't feasible.

Conclusion

SnoBlox-Snojax adopts a comprehensive approach to assisting customers with snow guard installations. Our focus extends beyond resolving immediate concerns, as we aim to cultivate a thorough understanding of our products among our clientele. We employ a multifaceted strategy that blends individualized support with various resources, ensuring our customers have the knowledge and tools essential for successful implementations. Providing direct access to our support team and offering practical guides and tools enables our clients to deploy our products optimally. Our emphasis on quality and real-world effectiveness underscores our commitment to delivering top-tier solutions. This approach reflects our dedication to both product excellence and customer satisfaction. We've developed powerful resources like our Snow Guard Buyer's Guide and "What Works and What Doesn't" page to empower clients with valuable insights and practical information for informed decision-making. We are committed to empowering our clients with the necessary resources and expertise, showcasing our dedication to their success by utilizing our snow guard solutions. If you need assistance with your order, please give us a call at 1-800-766-5291 or reach out via email at support@snojax.com

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.