Snow Guards For Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels by Central States Manufacturing

See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Central States Screw Down Metal Roofing.

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

Protecting your property, loved ones, and pets from the risks of sliding snow and ice is crucial when you've got an exposed fastener metal roof. These roofs often need specialized snow retention solutions to handle the challenges of harsh winter weather. This guide covers various snow guard options that work with Central States' exposed fastener metal roofs, helping you choose the right fit for your roof system. As part of an ongoing blog series, we'll highlight the top metal panel manufacturers and recommend compatible snow retention solutions. We aim to give you the confidence and know-how to navigate this process smoothly so you can make well-informed choices that protect your investment and keep everyone safe during those brutal winter months.

Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels by Central States Manufacturing

From humble beginnings, Carl Carpenter established Central States Manufacturing in Rogers, Arkansas, in 1988. What started as a modest plant producing metal roofing and siding panels for wood-frame structures would soon experience substantial growth and expansion. By 1990, just two years after opening, the company had already outgrown its original facility in Rogers. Central States relocated to a larger manufacturing plant in the nearby city of Lowell to accommodate increasing demand. An innovative move in 1991 transitioned the company to an employee-owned model through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), giving workers a stake. Over the next decade, Central States aggressively grew its footprint. New plants opened in Indiana, Texas, and Alabama. Revenues skyrocketed 82% in the five years leading up to 2007 as metal building products gained widespread acceptance. Investments in advanced technologies like improved painting systems, cool roof coatings, and floating roof panel designs drove this success. By 2013, the company's workforce had swelled to over 850 employees, spanning multiple locations across the United States. Central States transformed from a small local startup into a major industry player through consistent expansion, manufacturing innovations, and capitalizing on rising metal construction demand.

Panel-Loc Plus

The Panel-Loc Plus® is a durable metal roofing and siding system featuring an exposed fastener design and a distinctive striated profile with ribs nine inches apart. Available in Prime 29 gauge or Ultra 26 gauge steel construction, the panels offer a 36-inch coverage width. The striated profile, enhanced by an extra striation on top, lends an attractive aesthetic suitable for residential, agricultural, and light commercial applications. The exposed fastener system simplifies installation. Central States Manufacturing's product visualizer tool aids the design process by allowing customers to preview the system on their property. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Central States Panel-Loc Plus Screw Down Metal Roofing.

The Panel-Loc Plus Panel offers flexibility in snow retention solutions, accommodating adhesive and screw-based installation methods. The polycarbonate SnoBlox Deuce and SnowBreaker are compatible with either attachment approach, designed to mount between the minor ribs at the panel's center. For those preferring metal snow guards secured with screws in the center flat section, the SnoCleat PBR, standard SnowCatcher, and decorative SnowCatcher shapes are viable choices. Additionally, the Snojax I and Icejax I can straddle one of the minor ribs between each 9-inch rib on this panel. While the Icejax I accommodates both adhesive and screw mounting, the Snojax I requires mechanical fastening and cannot be adhesive-applied. Combining the Panel-Loc Plus Panel with Tall ColorBrackets and mechanical fasteners ensures compatibility with the aluminum ColorBar PBR and galvanized SnoBar PBR snow rail systems, providing a robust snow retention solution. For optimal strength, it is crucial to secure snow guards by screwing them down through the panel's low flats into a sturdy structure. Mounting individual snow guards or rail systems by screwing onto the high ribs compromises the installation's integrity and effectiveness. Refer to the recent blog post, "Mounting Snow Guards on the High Ribs or the Panel Flats: Which is Correct?" for proper mounting techniques.

M-Loc

The M-Loc metal panel is a versatile, durable solution for roofing and wall cladding applications. This panel features a traditional commercial aesthetic that complements various building styles with a coverage width of 36 inches and low-profile ribs spaced every 6" on center with a rib height of 13/16 inches. Available in 24 and 26-gauge thickness options, the M-Loc panel offers superior strength and weather resistance. Recommended for roof slopes of 1:12 or greater, this panel can withstand severe weather conditions, ensuring long-lasting performance. Central States Manufacturing offers two quality levels for the M-Loc panel, catering to different project requirements. The Prime option features advanced CentralGuard coatings and a lifetime paint warranty. In contrast, the Thrifty option provides essential protection with a 20-year paint warranty. Regardless of the chosen option, customers can select from over 18 vibrant color choices, allowing for seamless integration with their desired aesthetic. Comparable in strength and weather resistance to Central States' renowned R-Loc panel, the M-Loc panel distinguishes itself with a smaller rib design, making it an ideal choice for projects requiring more compact trims and detailing. This versatile panel combines durability, aesthetics, and customization options, making it a reliable choice for commercial and residential metal roofing and siding projects. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Central States M-Loc Screw Down Metal Roofing.

The M-Loc panel is compact, with flat areas spanning approximately 3 1/2 inches in width. Despite its limited width, this panel offers options for various needs. The Ace, Icejax I, or Deuce polycarbonate snow guards present a suitable solution for retaining snow and ice on their roofs. Conversely, if the objective is to facilitate a controlled and gradual shedding of snow and ice, the SnowBreaker or SnowBreaker 3M snow guards may be the preferred choice. All these models can be secured using screws or the Surebond SB-190 adhesive. Furthermore, the Tall ColorBrackets enable the mechanical attachment of SnoBar and ColorBar systems to this panel, providing additional versatility.

R-Loc

The R-Loc® is a versatile commercial metal panel system. Designed to maximize the potential of steel frame structures, this exposed fastener panel is compatible with vertical or horizontal installations on roofing or walls. Regarding dimensions, the R-Loc panel offers a coverage width of 36 inches and a rib depth of 1-1/4 inches, with the ribs spaced at 12 inches on-center. This purlin-bearing rib (PBR) panel is available in a range of Prime 26 gauge and Thrift 24 gauge thickness options. The gauge selection allows for customization based on the project's structural requirements and desired panel strength. Central States Manufacturing takes pride in offering a variety of colors and finishes for the R-Loc panel, catering to the aesthetic preferences of architects and contractors. With its lap seams and exposed fastener system, this panel system provides a practical and visually appealing solution for commercial and industrial metal building projects. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Central States R-Loc Screw Down Metal Roofing.

R-Loc Panels offer remarkable versatility when installing snow guards, catering to diverse preferences and requirements. These panels seamlessly integrate with a wide range of snow guard models, including the screw-down SnoBar, ColorBar, SnoCleat PBR, and the stainless steel SnowCatchers, encompassing designs such as the Standard, Fleur-de-lis, Sun Burst, Maple Leaf, Mustang, and Kodiak. Furthermore, most polycarbonate snow guard models, except the Snojax I, can be affixed to these panels using adhesive or mechanical fasteners. It's crucial to note that the Snojax I requires installation with only mechanical fasteners. You must use the Surebond SB-190 adhesive when working with polycarbonate models because its formulation specifically ensures compatibility with these materials. However, this adhesive is not suitable for metal pad-style snow guards. Installers should mount smaller snow guards between the minor ribs centered on the panels for optimal installation. Specific models, such as the Snojax II and Icejax II, require off-center mounting, straddling either the left or right minor rib and consistent placement over the same rib is crucial in these cases. It is essential to avoid securing individual snow guards or rail systems directly onto the high ribs of the panel. Instead, the recommended approach is to fasten them by screwing through the panel's low flats into a solid underlying structure, ensuring maximum installation strength and stability.

Panel-Loc

The Panel-Loc metal roof panel is a low-profile option for metal buildings and roofing applications. This exposed fastener system features a 5/8-inch rib height with ribs spaced 9" on-center and a generous 36-inch coverage width, making it an efficient choice for larger projects. The Panel-Loc is available in 26-gauge and 29-gauge steel options and offers versatility in strength and durability requirements. The Panel-Loc metal roof panel exemplifies Central States Manufacturing's commitment to providing reliable solutions for post-frame structures and metal buildings. With its low-rib profile and exposed fastener design, this panel offers a practical and durable roofing option that combines functionality with the strength of steel construction. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Central States Panel-Loc Screw Down Metal Roofing.

The Panel-Loc Panel offers flexibility in snow retention solutions, allowing users to choose between adhesive or screw-based installation methods. The polycarbonate SnoBlox Deuce and SnowBreaker are compatible with glue-down or screw-down attachment methods and can be mounted centrally between the minor ribs. For those preferring metal snow guards secured with screws in the panel's center flat, the SnoCleat PBR and all six SnowCatcher shapes are viable choices. Additionally, the Snojax I and Icejax I can be utilized by straddling one of the minor ribs between each 9-inch rib. While the Icejax I accommodates both adhesive and screw installation, the Snojax I requires mechanical fastening and is not suitable for adhesive application. The Panel-Loc Panel can be paired with Tall ColorBrackets and mechanical fasteners, making it compatible with aluminum ColorBar PBR and galvanized SnoBar PBR snow rail systems. This combination provides a comprehensive solution for effective snow retention and management.

7.2 Panel

The 7.2 Panel is a robust and aesthetically pleasing metal roofing solution. This panel features a deep trapezoidal rib profile, with a rib height of 1.5 inches and a rib spacing of 7.2 inches on-center. The panel's coverage width options span 28.8 or 36 inches, catering to various project requirements. Constructed from high-quality materials, the 7.2 Panel comes in 26 and 24-gauge steel options. The panels feature a Galvalume AZ50 minimum substrate to ensure superior corrosion resistance. This versatile panel system is suitable for roofing and wall panel applications. It requires a minimum roof slope of 1/2:12. It can be installed over open purlins or solid substrates, making it an ideal choice for residential, commercial, and agricultural projects. One of the standout features of the 7.2 Panel is its exceptional load and span capacities, reducing the need for extensive structural support. The exposed fastener panel system contributes to its strength and durability, making it suitable for roofing, walls, and fencing applications. The deep rib trapezoidal profile's symmetrical balance and architectural flair make the 7.2 Panel attractive for projects that demand functionality and visual appeal. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Central States 7.2 Screw Down Metal Roofing Panel.

The 7.2 Panel integrates with a few different snow management solutions to effectively control snow and ice buildup on your roof. The polycarbonate SnoBlox Deuce acts as a clear, polycarbonate, pad-style guard, allowing you to retain snow and ice on the roof surface. The SnowBreaker breaks the accumulated snow and ice into more manageable and safer pieces as it sheds them from the roof. Installers can mount these snow guards using screws or adhesive. At the same time, the SnowBreaker 3M offers the convenience of 3M double-sided tape for secure attachment. The 7.2 Panel is also compatible with the galvanized SnoBar and aluminum ColorBar snow rail systems. Both systems utilize the robust 1.5-inch wide aluminum Tall ColorBracket for secure attachment, providing a comprehensive and effective snow management solution for your roof.

CD 2000

The CD 2000 is a metal roofing panel designed to offer an appealing aesthetic while remaining budget-friendly. This panel features a "board-and-batten" style profile, which lends a visually interesting and textured appearance to the roof. Unlike concealed fastener systems, the CD 2000 employs an exposed fastener design, contributing to cost-effectiveness. In terms of dimensions, the CD 2000 panel has a coverage width of 36 inches and a rib height of 5/8 inch, with its ribs spaced 9" apart on-center. It is available in two gauge options: 29 gauge or 26 gauge. The thicker 26 gauge variant provides enhanced strength and durability, making it suitable for applications that require increased wind load resistance or longer panel spans. Manufacturers typically supply these panels in standard lengths ranging from 8 to 45 feet, but they can accommodate longer lengths upon request. With its attractive board-and-batten appearance and exposed fastener design, the CD 2000 roof panel from Central States Manufacturing offers a visually appealing yet economical solution for residential, agricultural, and light commercial roofing projects. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Central States CD 2000 Screw Down Metal Roofing.

The CD 2000 panel's angular faces, while dimensionally similar to a standard 9" r-panel, limit the snow guard installation choices. The center flat areas are estimated to be around 1.5" wide, maintaining this panel type's traditional styling. Before finalizing your system, we recommend contacting the manufacturer or ordering a sample snow guard from our website. This panel accommodates both adhesive and screw-mounted attachment methods for polycarbonate guards. Compatible options that mount between the minor ribs include the SnoBlox Deuce, which retains snow and ice until melting, and the SnowBreaker, which breaks shed snow into smaller pieces. The SnoCleat PBR and all six SnowCatcher shapes can be screw-mounted into the panel's center flats. However, snow guards requiring off-center rib straddling are discouraged due to the panel's shape and the minor gaps created by the angled faces. The ColorBar and SnoBar systems are compatible with this panel when using Tall ColorBrackets with mechanical fasteners in the center flats.

BarnMaster

The BarnMaster roof panel is a testament to the company's commitment to quality and durability. This classic wavy corrugated farm roofing solution features a distinctive rolling profile that lends a rustic charm, making it a popular choice for interior wall applications in residential and commercial settings. The BarnMaster panel measures 24 inches in width. It is available in various lengths up to 40 feet, catering to diverse project requirements. This panel comes in 29 or 31-gauge thickness options. Central States Manufacturing coats each BarnMaster panel with a galvanized finish. This coating imparts a distinctive aesthetic and is a formidable barrier against rust and corrosion, extending the panel's lifespan and minimizing maintenance requirements. With its perfect blend of rustic charm and unwavering durability, the BarnMaster panel remains popular among today's consumers. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Central StatesBarnMaster Screw Down Metal Roofing.

The 7/8" Corrugated Panel has a distinctive wavy corrugated design, setting it apart from conventional exposed fastener roofing systems. This unique feature allows for mounting snow guards on the panel's elevated ridges, deviating from typical installation guidelines. Customers seeking snow retention solutions will find the 7/8" Corrugated Panel compatible with a few options. One recent offering is the SnoCleat 2.67 snow guards, which can be securely attached to the panel's high ribs using 3-inch screws. Alternatively, customers can opt for the SnoBar or ColorBar snow retention systems, utilizing the same ColorBracket 2.67 as the SnoCleat 2.67. Each ColorBracket 2.67 comes equipped with six attachment holes. While four screws per bracket are typically sufficient for installation, the additional holes offer the option for increased stability and peace of mind. This flexibility provides customers with the choice to use all six screws for enhanced mounting strength, particularly in areas prone to extreme weather conditions.

Central States Snow Guard Compatibility Chart

Ensuring Optimal Snow Guard Performance on Central States' Exposed Fastener Roofs

Color Coordination

Explore our color-matching options to integrate our metal snow guards with your roof's aesthetic. The SnoCleat PBR, SnoCleat 2.67, and ColorBar rail system are compatible with slide-in color strips, which you can create from leftover roofing material or purchase separately. Alternatively, opt for custom powder coating in your desired hue, with a typical turnaround time of 3 to 4 weeks. Suppose you require a quicker solution or prefer greater color control. In that case, you can powder coat or paint the guards locally after delivery.

Ground Snow Load Awareness

The Ground Snow Load is essential when calculating snow guard layouts for your project. You can find this information online, consult your building plans, or inquire with local authorities about the specific number for your area. For ground snow loads under 45 psf, you can utilize adhesive or screw-mounted individual guards and bars. However, we recommend exclusively employing snow rail systems for loads exceeding that threshold.

Secure Fastening Techniques

When installing screw-in snow guards, ensure you're penetrating at least 1" of solid wood decking, purlins, or added blocking. For pre-engineered metal buildings, fasten them to the metal purlins whenever possible. Avoid simply screwing into the panels, as this could lead to potential issues. If you cannot easily add blocking and your ground snow load is 45 psf or less, consider switching to adhesive-mounted snow guards instead.

Safeguarding Roof Integrity

Prevent potential leaks by utilizing products like SnoCleat PBR, SnoCleat 2.67, SnowCatchers, and screw-down rails, which come equipped with butyl gaskets that create a secure seal when used in conjunction with our Master Gripper/Driller screws and neoprene washers. For added peace of mind, some customers apply an extra bead of silicone sealant around the perimeter. When working with polycarbonate guards, use a neutral-curing silicone to seal the entire base, allowing it to ooze around the edges before smoothing with a gloved finger. We recommend using the NovaFlex MR150 sealant to create this liquid gasket.

Adhesive Installation Timing

You can install screw-down snow guards and rails year-round if your roof has no snow, ice, or debris. However, you must carefully time the installation of adhesive-mounted guards. Our SureBond SB-190 adhesive for polycarbonate guards requires approximately 28 days at 50°F to cure fully. Late spring or early summer is typically the ideal installation period across most of the U.S. and Canada. Colder temperatures will pause the curing process until it warms up again. Rain won't affect the adhesive after 24 hours, but avoid using SB-190 on copper roofs, as the adhesive and metal might react, leading to premature corrosion.

Layout Planning

Exercise caution when positioning snow guards, avoiding isolated areas such as above doors, HVAC units, or chimneys. Isolated placement of snow guards often leads to overloading and failure of the snow retention system, regardless of type. Carefully plan the layout of your snow retention system, adhering to the manufacturer's recommended guidelines. Our website offers complimentary spacing charts and custom layout quote requests for our bar systems and individual pad-style snow guards.

Conclusion

SnoBlox-Snojax prioritizes delivering an exceptional experience as you choose and install your snow guards. Our knowledgeable support team is always ready to assist you with any questions or concerns. Feel free to contact us via email at support@snojax.com or by calling 1-800-766-5291. We have curated valuable resources to empower our customers, including our comprehensive Snow Guard Buyer's Guide and the insightful "What Works and Doesn't" page. These resources provide the necessary information to make informed decisions and ensure a smooth installation process.

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.