Snow Guards For Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels by Behlen Building Systems

See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Behlen Building Systems Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing.

Behlen screw-down metal roof systems often require snow retention solutions tailored to the panel's shape and rib spacing. Below are compatible SnoBlox-Snojax snow guard products and important considerations for these exposed fastener roof panels.

ADP-1 Profile

The ADP-1 is a versatile and visually appealing corrugated panel designed for roof and wall applications in metal building systems. This panel features a distinctive profile that creates an attractive shadow line and highlighting effect, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the structure. This panel has a coverage width of 36" with a rib spacing of 12" and varying panel lengths to suit different building dimensions. Manufactured from 26 gauge 80 KSI steel, the ADP-1 is available in various color finishes, allowing for personalized design choices that complement the building's aesthetic. The panel's construction ensures durability and structural integrity. During the manufacturing process, Behlen employs an exclusive roll-form corrugation technique, ensuring consistent quality and strength. Once installed, the panels are securely bolted together at 6-inch intervals along the seams and footing channels using 3/8-inch plated bolts, creating a robust and reliable system. Furthermore, the ADP-1 panel offers design flexibility, seamlessly integrating various architectural elements, such as windows, overhead doors, glass, wood, pre-cast masonry, and other cladding materials. This versatility enables architects and builders to create unique and visually appealing structures while maintaining the panel's efficiency and functionality. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Behlen Building Systems ADP-1 Metal Roofing.

The ADP-1 panel has gained widespread popularity for snow guard installations due to its remarkable versatility. This panel seamlessly integrates with a diverse range of snow guard systems, making it a go-to choice for various applications. Among the compatible systems are the screw-down SnoBar and ColorBar snow rail systems, the SnoCleat PBR, and the comprehensive lineup of stainless steel SnowCatcher designs, including the standard rectangle shape and the decorative Kodiak, Maple Leaf, Fleur-de-lis, Sun Burst, and Mustang models. Polycarbonate snow guards, commonly used with the ADP-1 panel, offer the flexibility of adhesive and screw-down installation methods. The only exception is the Snojax I, which requires mechanical fastening and is incompatible with adhesive mounting. Larger models, like the SnoBlox Ace and Icejax II, are favorites for this panel. At the same time, some customers may opt for a smaller guard like the SnoBlox Deuce. These models are great for retaining snow and ice on your roof. If the goal is to allow the snow and ice to shed, but in a more controlled and safer manner, then the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M guards are the way to go. For some snow guard options, we recommend mounting the guard at the center flat of the panel. However, specific guards may necessitate off-center mounting, straddling either the left or right minor rib. In such cases, maintaining consistent mounting along the same rib is crucial for optimal performance. When installing snow guards, it is essential to secure them by screwing them down through the low flats of the panel and into a sturdy underlying structure. This approach ensures maximum strength and effectiveness of the installation. Conversely, mounting screw-down individual snow guards or rail systems by screwing them onto the high ribs of the panel is strongly discouraged, as it can compromise the integrity and performance of the installation. For comprehensive guidance on the correct mounting techniques, refer to our recent blog post titled  Mounting Snow Guards on the High Ribs or the Panel Flats: Which is Correct? This resource provides valuable insights and best practices to ensure a successful, long-lasting snow guard installation.

Preparing for Snow Guard Installation on Behlen Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing

1. Secure Those Snow Guards Properly

When screwing in snow guards, make sure you're going into at least 1" of solid wood - decking, purlins, or added blocking. For pre-engineered metal buildings, fasten them to the metal purlins whenever you can. Don't just screw into the panels; that's asking for trouble. If you can't easily add blocking and your ground snow load is 45 psf or less, switch to adhesive-mounted snow guards instead.

2. Timing Matters for Adhesive Installation

You can install screw-down snow guards and rails anytime there isn't snow, ice, or debris on your roof. For adhesive-mounted guards, however, timing is critical. Our SureBond SB-190 adhesive for polycarbonate guards needs around 28 days at 50°F to cure fully. Late spring or early summer is usually best for installations across most of the U.S. and Canada. Colder temperatures will pause the curing until it warms back up. Rain won't affect it after 24 hours, but avoid using SB-190 on copper roofs - the adhesive and metal might react, leading to premature corrosion.

3. Know Your Ground Snow Load

Ground Snow Load is the maximum snow weight your roof can handle. You can find this information online, check your building plans, or ask local officials for your area's number. Under 45 psf, you can use adhesive or screw-mounted individual guards and bars. Over that, we suggest snow rail systems only.

4. Matching Roof Colors

You've got options to match our metal snow guards to your roof! The SnoCleat PBR, SnoCleat 2.67, and ColorBar Rails work with slide-in color strips you can buy or make from leftover roofing material. We also offer powder coating in custom colors for a seamless look, which takes around 3 to 4 weeks. If you need it faster or want more color control, you can powder coat or paint the guards locally after delivery.

5. Prevent Leaky Roofs

Products like SnoCleat PBR, SnoCleat 2.67, SnowCatchers, and screw-down rails come with butyl gaskets that seal without liquid sealant when used with our Master Gripper/Driller screws with neoprene washers. Some customers use an extra bead of silicone sealant for peace of mind. For polycarbonate guards, use a neutral curing silicone to seal the entire base, letting it ooze around the edges before smoothing with a gloved finger. We recommend NovaFlex MR150 sealant.

6. Plan That Layout Right

Follow the manufacturer's recommended layout for your snow retention system, no matter what type. Our website has free product spacing charts and quote request forms for custom layouts of our bar systems and individual pad-style snow guards. Avoid putting snow guards in isolated areas like above doors, HVAC units, or chimneys.

In Conclusion

SnoBlox-Snojax takes immense pride in delivering outstanding customer support while you select and install your snow guards. Our dedicated staff is here and ready to address any questions or concerns. Feel free to contact us via email at support@snojax.com or our toll-free number, 1-800-766-5291. Moreover, we have curated many informative resources to empower you with the knowledge necessary to make well-informed decisions. Our comprehensive Snow Guard Buyer's Guide and insightful "What Works and Doesn't" page are designed to provide you with valuable insights, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free installation experience.