Snow Guards For Economy Metals Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels
Posted by Derek Gamble - SnoBlox-Snojax Specialist on Jul 21st 2025
See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Economy Metals Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.
Which snow guards are most effective for Economy Metals exposed fastener metal roof panels?
Metal roofs with exposed fasteners often experience abrupt movements or avalanches of snow and ice during the winter season.
Because metal roofing has a smooth surface, snow and ice can quickly slide off, creating hazards for people, property, and pets below. To address these concerns, our company offers a range of snow retention solutions specifically designed for various popular roofing styles. Our product lineup features snow guards and versatile rail systems that accommodate different roof slopes, panel designs, and weather conditions. We strive to assist our customers by providing useful resources, including detailed blog articles, easy-to-follow installation instructions, and regularly updated lists of compatible roofing manufacturers. In regions with frequent heavy snowfall, these snow retention systems are crucial for mitigating the risks associated with snow and ice buildup, thereby protecting everyone and everything beneath the roof during winter.
Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels by Economy Metals
Located near Centralia, Missouri, Economy Metals, Inc. has been a reliable provider of steel roofing, siding, and pole barn materials since 1992. The company serves a broad customer base throughout Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, and Illinois, catering to builders, contractors, homeowners, and the general public. Economy Metals supplies a wide variety of metal building products, including pole barn metal, snaplock, and standing seam roofing panels, as well as a full range of construction accessories and supplies. Their standing seam panels, such as the 1 1/2-inch Snap Lock and ECO MS Panels, are designed for both residential and commercial use. These panels are available in various finishes and gauges, providing strong, weather-resistant roofing solutions.
ECO 3/4 Inch Rib Panel (Low Rib)
The ECO 3/4 Inch Rib Panel (Low Rib) offered by Economy Metals is designed to cover three feet, with each panel measuring 38 inches wide and featuring five ribs spaced 9 inches apart and standing 3/4 inch tall. Customers have the option to select either 29 or 26-gauge steel. The ECO #1 painted steel panels are coated with a siliconized polyester paint and are available in both smooth and textured finishes. These panels come with a 40-year warranty against cracking, checking, and peeling, as well as a 30-year prorated warranty for fading and chalking. A wide range of color options is available, including specialty shades such as copper metallic and camo, which Economy Metals doesn't feature on the standard color chart. Additional finishes include galvanized steel (available only in 29-gauge thickness), Galvalume steel, perforated white, and white liner steel, all of which come with a 10-year warranty. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Economy Metals ECO 3/4 Inch Rib Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.
This panel is compatible with various snow retention systems, enabling flexible installation methods and a range of material options. Polycarbonate choices such as the SnoBlox Deuce and SnowBreaker fit between the panel's minor ribs. If you prefer metal solutions, you can attach screw-mounted products, such as the SnoCleat PBR and any of the six SnowCatcher styles, to the flat center section, which serves as the optimal mounting location. Additional options, including the Snojax I and Icejax I, are designed to straddle the minor ribs. You can install the Icejax I using either adhesive or screws. In contrast, you must use mechanical fasteners to install the Snojax I. The panel also works with Tall ColorBrackets and the necessary hardware for installing aluminum ColorBar PBR or galvanized SnoBar PBR snow rail systems. This broad compatibility provides reliable snow management in a variety of weather and environmental conditions.
ECO R-Panel W/ PBR (also available w/out PBR)
The ECO R-Panel with PBR from Economy Metals is a strong and adaptable metal panel designed for use in architectural, agricultural, commercial, and industrial settings. You can use the structural PBR for both roofing and wall applications, and install it on roofs with a minimum slope of ½:12. You can also choose an option without the purlin bearing rib, which manufacturers primarily intend for wall use. Made from 26-gauge steel, the panel is available in either painted steel with a siliconized polyester coating or Galvalume, with options for smooth or textured finishes. The panel features ribs spaced 12 inches apart, providing durability and a distinctive appearance. It comes with a 40-year warranty against cracking, checking, and peeling, as well as a 30-year prorated warranty covering fading and chalking. Customers can choose from a wide range of colors, including specialty options like copper metallic and camouflage, with matching trims and accessories available in corresponding shades. The company produces all panels and trims at its Centralia, Missouri facility and distributes them throughout the region. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Economy Metals ECO R-Panel Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.
This panel offers excellent flexibility for installing snow guards, making it well-suited to a variety of projects and installer preferences. It works with multiple snow guard systems, including screw-fastened rail solutions such as SnoBar, ColorBar, and SnoCleat PBR. The panel also supports a range of stainless steel SnowCatchers in distinctive designs like Standard Rectangle, Fleur-de-lis, Sun Burst, Maple Leaf, Mustang, and Kodiak. Most polycarbonate snow guards can be attached to these panels using either adhesive or screws. However, the Snojax I model specifically requires screw-down installation. When using adhesive for polycarbonate snow guards, it is essential to use Surebond SB-190, which is the industry-recommended product, and to avoid applying this adhesive to metal pad-style snow guards. To achieve the best results, position smaller snow guards between the minor ribs at the center of the panel. Certain models, such as the Snojax II and Icejax II, require installation off-center, straddling a minor rib or mesa on either side. It is important not to mount snow guards or rails directly onto the high ribs; instead, they should be installed through the flat, lower sections and anchored into a solid substrate beneath to ensure a secure and lasting installation.
Economy Metals Compatibility Chart for Snow Guards
ECO 3/4 Inch Rib Panel | ECO R-Panel | |
---|---|---|
IceJax I Screw Down | YES | YES |
IceJax I Glue Down | YES | YES |
IceJax II Screw Down | NO | YES |
IceJax II Glue Down | NO | YES |
SnoBlox Deuce Screw Down | YES | YES |
SnoBlox Deuce Glue Down | YES | YES |
SnoBlox Ace Screw Down | NO | YES |
SnoBlox Ace Glue Down | NO | YES |
Snojax I Screw Down | YES | YES |
Snojax II Screw Down | NO | YES |
Snojax II Glue Down | NO | YES |
SnowBreaker 3M | YES | YES |
SnowBreaker Screw Down | YES | YES |
SnowBreaker Glue Down | YES | YES |
SnowCatcher | YES | YES |
Decorative SnowCatcher | YES | YES |
SnoCleat PBR | YES | YES |
SnoCleat 2.67 | NO | NO |
SnoBar PBR | YES | YES |
ColorBar PBR | YES | YES |
SnoBar 2.67 | NO | NO |
ColorBar 2.67 | NO | NO |
Considerations for Adding Snow Guards to Exposed Fastener Roofs by Economy Metals
Test Placement Before Committing
Start by temporarily attaching a snow guard or snow guards on your roof to check their fit and compatibility. This initial trial helps you spot and address any alignment or installation challenges before committing to the full installation.
Adapt to Roofing Material
Adjust your snow guard spacing and layout according to the specific roofing material. Softer metals, such as aluminum or copper, often require guards to be placed closer together and may require extra rows compared to more durable materials, like steel. Always ensure that any finishes or coatings used are compatible to avoid negative chemical interactions between different metals.
Install During Warm Temperatures for Adhesive Guards
For adhesive-mounted snow guards, schedule installation in late spring or early summer when daytime temperatures consistently exceed 50°F for several weeks. Warm conditions are essential for adhesives to cure properly; cooler weather can slow this process. Surebond SB190 becomes water-resistant after about 24 hours, so rain after this period generally won’t affect the bond.
Match Finishes to Roof Aesthetics
Choose snow guards with finishes or coatings that match your roof’s color and design. Options like powder coating or custom color inserts can create a unified, attractive look. While professional finishes tend to be more durable, DIY solutions may offer cost savings.
Use Sealant for Leak Prevention
When securing polycarbonate snow guards with screws, apply sealant to the entire base of each guard. This step seals any gaps, improves water resistance, and reduces the likelihood of leaks.
Secure Guards to Structural Elements
Attach snow guards directly to structural supports such as rafters or metal purlins for maximum stability, rather than just fastening them to the roofing panels. If your roof lacks adequate support, consider reinforcing it or using specialized adhesives to enhance its strength.
Select Guards for Unconventional Roof Designs
Standard pad-style snow guards are not effective on curved, arched, or uniquely shaped roofs. For these situations, select products designed specifically for non-traditional roof profiles to ensure proper snow retention and protection. Consult your roof panel manufacturer for recommendations tailored to your roof’s design.
Conclusion
SnoBlox-Snojax is committed to providing dependable and long-lasting snow guard solutions, prioritizing lasting performance rather than temporary fixes. Our company fosters trust by delivering personalized support and presenting product information in a clear, straightforward manner, including simple installation instructions. Customers have access to valuable resources, including the Snow Guard Buyer's Guide and a detailed manual on best installation practices, which streamlines the decision-making process. With a knowledgeable team ready to offer customized advice and assist with orders by phone or email, SnoBlox-Snojax ensures customers can confidently choose, install, and maintain their snow guards through expert guidance, transparent communication, and high-quality products.
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.