null Skip to main content

Economical 6 Foot SnoBar and ColorBar Snow Rail Kits

See Now
Snow Guards For CBC Steel Buildings Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels
Sign-up to receive our newsletter

Snow Guards For CBC Steel Buildings Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels

Posted by Derek Gamble - SnoBlox-Snojax Specialist on Mar 21st 2025

See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for CBC Steel Buildings Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing Panels.

CBC  Logo - Image courtesy of https://www.cbcsteelbuildings.com/

What Are the Best Snow Guards for Metal Roofs?

As the winter season approaches, buildings featuring exposed fastener metal roofs encounter distinct challenges, with the most significant being the potential for abrupt snow and ice slides. The smooth surface of these roofs heightens the likelihood of snow avalanches, posing risks to individuals, pets, and property below. Specialized snow retention systems have been engineered for metal roofs to combat this issue. These cutting-edge solutions encompass snow guards and versatile snow rail configurations that accommodate various roof designs, effectively managing snow accumulation. When implementing these systems, it is essential to consider multiple factors, including the roof's pitch, the arrangement of panels, and the specific weather patterns of the area. Various educational materials have been developed, such as our informative blog posts, detailed online guides, and current lists of compatible metal panel manufacturers and their products. These snow retention solutions are particularly beneficial in regions prone to heavy snowfall, as they mitigate the dangers associated with snow and ice buildup. These solutions provide peace of mind throughout the challenging winter months by enhancing safety measures and instilling greater confidence in roofing systems.

ColorBar With ColorBracket Installed on R-Panel Roof

Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels by CBC Steel Buildings

CBC Steel Buildings has established itself as a leading metal building manufacturer in the Western United States since 1984. Known for its high-quality products and exceptional service, the company specializes in creating custom metal structures for various industries, including commercial, industrial, agricultural, educational, and recreational sectors. Their expertise extends to managing intricate projects with adaptability and efficiency, assigning dedicated teams to ensure project continuity, and providing valuable engineering insights. The company's versatile design capabilities allow it to produce diverse frame structures that can accommodate virtually any project requirement, regardless of complexity. CBC's industry standing was further solidified in 2007 when Nucor Corporation, the largest steel producer in the United States and a leader in steel recycling, acquired the company. This partnership has enhanced CBC's position in the market and its ability to deliver top-tier products. As one of only two MBMA-approved full-production manufacturing plants in California, CBC Steel Buildings strongly emphasizes environmental sustainability. Their structures typically incorporate over 70% recycled steel, contributing to LEED certification points for projects. The company takes pride in its commitment to domestic production, with all its buildings designed, detailed, and fabricated in America using American-made steel. Through its extensive Authorized Builder Network, CBC continues to cater to a diverse clientele, offering tailored solutions for various applications, including hangars and institutional buildings. Their unwavering dedication to meeting customer needs while upholding high-quality standards has cemented their reputation as a trusted name in the metal building industry.

R-Panel Roof

CBC Steel Buildings offers the R-Panel Roof, a versatile metal roofing system for commercial and industrial applications. This roofing solution features a distinctive panel configuration with 36-inch net coverage and major ribs 1 1/4 inches deep, spaced 12 inches apart. The major ribs have two minor ribs evenly distributed between them. CBC recommends using the R-Panel Roof on structures with a minimum slope of 1/2 inch in 12 inches. For buildings utilizing Z purlin roofs, CBC recommends maximum widths of 240 feet for gable roofs and 120 feet for single slope designs. The R-Panel is crafted from 26-gauge steel sheeting through a precise roll-forming process. This roofing system boasts impressive certifications, including a UL 580 Class 90® uplift rating and FM 1-135 uplift rating, applicable when the panels are secured to roof purlins no more than 5 feet apart. Installation of the R-Panel Roof involves attaching the panels to the secondary structure using 1/4-14 self-drilling carbon steel screws. These fasteners have sealing washers and a corrosion-resistant coating for enhanced durability. To complement the R-Panel Roof, CBC offers the RS36 R-Panel Daylighting System. This skylight solution seamlessly integrates with 12-inch R-Panel or High-Rib roofs. This system provides natural illumination and incorporates OSHA-compliant fall protection measures. To facilitate proper installation, CBC provides certified erection details for the R-Panel Roof. These comprehensive guidelines cover general installation procedures, eave and rake designs, ridge details, and other components essential for a successful roof installation. Overall, the R-Panel Roof from CBC Steel Buildings presents a robust, weather-resistant roofing option that combines ease of installation with natural lighting capabilities. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for CBC Steel Buildings R-Panel Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing Panels.

cbc-nucor-r-panel.jpg

R-Panels exhibit impressive versatility in snow guard systems, accommodating many options. These panels seamlessly integrate various designs, including the SnoBar, ColorBar, and SnoCleat PBR. They are compatible with numerous stainless steel pad-style SnowCatcher variants, such as the Standard, Fleur-de-lis, Sun Burst, Maple Leaf, Mustang, and Kodiak models. The majority of polycarbonate snow guards install using either adhesive or screws. However, the Snojax I model is unique because it only requires mechanical fasteners for attachment. Users should use Surebond SB-190 adhesive exclusively for polycarbonate models and avoid using it for metal pad-style snow guards. Regarding placement, many snow guard options should be positioned centrally between minor ribs on panels. However, you must install specific models like the Snojax II and Icejax II off-center to cover either the left or right minor rib. In these cases, it's essential to maintain consistency by placing the guards over the same rib throughout the entire project.

CBC Steel Buildings Compatibility Chart for Snow Guards

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

Customizing Snow Management for Various Roof Types

Different roofing materials necessitate distinct snow retention strategies. For example, installers should place additional snow retention rows closer together on softer metals like aluminum or copper, compared to the wider spacing they can use on sturdy steel roofs with clamp-on systems.

Blending Snow Retention Systems with Architectural Design

Select snow retention solutions that enhance your roof's appearance rather than detract from it. Choices range from fully color-matched powder-coated snow guards and rails to options with complementary metal inserts. Budget-conscious homeowners may explore local coating services or DIY painting techniques to achieve a cohesive look.

Holistic Approach to Roof Protection

Create a comprehensive plan to safeguard your entire roof structure. This method strategically places multiple rows of retention devices to distribute snow loads evenly. Utilize recommended spacing guidelines and specialized tools to optimize placement for maximum efficacy.

Addressing the Challenges of Curved Roofing

Curved roofs present unique difficulties for snow retention. Traditional flat guards often require creative solutions from roofing specialists to effectively manage snow on these architecturally distinctive surfaces.

Assessing Regional Snowfall Patterns

When selecting a snow retention system, factor in your area's typical winter weather and ground snow load. Simple pad-style guards may suffice in regions with light snowfall (below 45psf). However, areas experiencing heavy accumulation (exceeding 45psf) demand more robust rail systems to prevent dangerous snow slides.

Verifying System Compatibility

Before installation, thoroughly evaluate the compatibility of all system components with your specific roof type. This crucial step helps avoid costly mistakes and ensures seamless integration. Consider testing individual parts to guarantee a perfect fit.

Maximizing Adhesive Performance

Schedule adhesive-mounted installations during appropriate weather conditions. Consider temperature fluctuations when estimating curing times, noting that high-quality adhesives may require extended bonding periods in moderate conditions.

Exercising Caution with Copper Roof Installations

Take extra care when installing retention systems on copper roofs. To prevent chemical reactions, avoid direct contact between certain adhesives and copper surfaces. Consider using protective coatings for bar systems to mitigate interactions between dissimilar metals.

Conclusion

SnoBlox-Snojax prioritizes providing comprehensive support for snow guard installations, emphasizing durable and effective solutions over quick fixes. Our company's primary goal is to ensure customers fully understand our product range through personalized assistance and various informative resources. Whether clients require direct support or practical guides, our team equips them with the necessary knowledge and tools for successful installations. SnoBlox-Snojax offers valuable resources such as a Snow Guard Buyer's Guide and a What Works and What Doesn't page to aid decision-making. These materials provide crucial information and insights, simplifying the customer selection process. For those needing assistance with orders, the company encourages contacting our support team via phone or email, where expert guidance is readily available to ensure optimal results. SnoBlox-Snojax empowers customers to make informed decisions and successfully implement our snow guard solutions by combining professional support, educational materials, and an unwavering dedication to quality.

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.