Snow Guards For Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels by Centria, A Nucor Company
Posted by Derek Gamble - SnoBlox-Snojax Specialist on Jun 17th 2024
Snow Guards for Centria Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels
Jump to the Snow Guard Compatibility Chart for all Centria screw-down metal roof panels.
Quick Answer: Which Snow Guards Are Compatible with Centria Metal Roofing?
- Econolap 3/4": SnoCleat 2.67, SnoBar 2.67, ColorBar 2.67
- BR5-36: EcoJax, IceJax I, SnoBlox Deuce, SnoBlox Ace, SnowBreaker, SnoCleat PBR, SnoBar PBR, ColorBar PBR
- Style-Rib: EcoJax, SnoBlox Deuce, SnowBreaker, SnoCleat PBR, SnoBar PBR, ColorBar PBR
- Super-Rib: No compatible products currently available — call 1-800-766-5291
- TR4-36: Adhesive-only — SnoBlox Deuce or SnowBreaker (no screw-down guards)
- MR3-36: Very limited — contact SnoBlox-Snojax before specifying any system
About Centria Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing
If your residential, commercial, or industrial building features a Centria exposed fastener (screw-down) metal roof, protecting occupants and property from sudden snow and ice avalanches is critical — especially in high-snowfall regions across the United States and Canada where ground snow loads routinely exceed 20 PSF. This guide identifies every SnoBlox-Snojax snow guard and snow retention system compatible with Centria's screw-down panel profiles, so you can select the right solution for your specific roof system. As part of an ongoing series spotlighting major metal panel manufacturers, we match each Centria panel profile to proven, field-tested snow retention products — giving you the knowledge to make a confident, informed purchasing decision before winter arrives.
Centria: Company History and Background
Centria's journey began in 1906 under the name H.H. Robertson. This pioneering company introduced advanced coatings for metal wall and roof panels used in commercial and industrial construction. Over the following decades — spanning the 1920s through the 1990s — the firm established itself as a leading manufacturer of light-gauge steel trusses, corrugated metal panels, insulated foam composite wall systems, and exposed fastener roofing solutions. Among its landmark achievements was the development of the SRS system, one of the earliest hidden-fastener panel designs commercially available.
As the new millennium approached, Centria unveiled several innovative product lines: the Concept Series concealed fastener system, Formawall Graphix Series panels, MetalWrap series, Kolorshift Coatings, and the Intercept+ technology powered by NexGen. In 2021, Nucor Corporation — the largest steelmaker in the United States — acquired Centria as part of its strategic expansion into adjacent building envelope businesses. Now operating as a Nucor subsidiary, Centria continues to offer a comprehensive portfolio of durable, energy-efficient, and aesthetically versatile metal wall and roofing systems for commercial, institutional, and industrial structures worldwide.
Centria Econolap 3/4" Screw-Down Roof Panel
The Centria Econolap 3/4" is a highly versatile wavy corrugated panel with a more pronounced corrugation profile than most standard exposed fastener roofing panels. Its non-directional design makes it suitable for a wide range of roofing applications regardless of installation orientation.
| Coverage Width | 34-2/3 inches |
|---|---|
| Corrugation Depth | 3/4 inch |
| Substrates | Galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum |
| Steel Gauges | 20, 22, 24 gauge |
| Aluminum Thicknesses | .032", .040", .050" |
| Available Lengths | 5'–40' (steel); up to 20' (aluminum) |
| Panel Profile | Non-directional wavy corrugated |
Snow Guard Options for Centria Econolap 3/4"
The Econolap 3/4"'s distinctive wavy corrugated design allows snow guards to be mounted on the panel's elevated ridges — a departure from typical flat-panel installation practice. This unique geometry supports three compatible SnoBlox-Snojax snow retention options:
- SnoCleat 2.67 — Individual mechanically fastened snow guards secured to the corrugated high ribs using 3-inch screws for a robust, watertight attachment.
- SnoBar 2.67 — A continuous galvanized steel snow rail system mounted using the ColorBracket 2.67; ideal for steeper pitches or higher-snowload applications.
- ColorBar 2.67 — An aluminum continuous snow rail system using the same ColorBracket 2.67 as the SnoCleat 2.67. Each bracket has six attachment holes; use four or all six screws based on local snow load requirements.
View the full Econolap 3/4" Snow Guard Compatibility Chart ↓
Centria BR5-36 Screw-Down Roof Panel
The BR5-36 is a robust exposed fastener metal roof panel renowned for its long-span capability, wind load resistance, and ease of installation. Its five evenly spaced ribs distribute loads effectively and allow direct fastening to the roof deck.
| Coverage Width | 36 inches |
|---|---|
| Rib Count / Spacing | 5 ribs at 7.2" on-center |
| Side Lap Position | Highest rib (inverted installation) |
| Substrates | Galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum |
| Steel Gauges | 20, 22, 24 gauge |
| Aluminum Thicknesses | .032", .040", .050" |
| Available Lengths | 5'–40' (steel); up to 20' (aluminum) |
Snow Guard Options for Centria BR5-36
The BR5-36 features narrow flat sections approximately 3½ inches wide between ribs. While this may seem limiting, it supports a broad range of SnoBlox-Snojax snow guard products — both individual polycarbonate pad guards and continuous rail systems:
- EcoJax — Polycarbonate pad guard; screw-down or adhesive installation; suitable for moderate snow loads.
- IceJax I — Individual polycarbonate guard compatible with the BR5-36 flat section width.
- SnoBlox Deuce — Versatile polycarbonate pad guard; retains snow until melt; screws or SureBond SB-190 adhesive.
- SnoBlox Ace — Polycarbonate pad guard; compatible with screw or adhesive attachment.
- SnowBreaker — Breaks accumulated snow into smaller, safer fragments as it sheds; screws or adhesive; SnowBreaker 3M variant available with 3M double-sided tape.
- SnoCleat PBR — Mechanically fastened individual cleat-style guard with integrated butyl tape gasket for watertight seal.
- SnoBar PBR — Galvanized steel continuous snow rail; recommended for ground snow loads above 45 PSF.
- ColorBar PBR — Aluminum continuous snow rail; available in powder-coated colors to match your roofing finish.
- Tall ColorBrackets — Enable secure mechanical fastening of SnoBar and ColorBar rail systems to this profile.
View the full BR5-36 Snow Guard Compatibility Chart ↓
Centria Style-Rib Screw-Down Roof Panel
The Style-Rib is a high-strength exposed fastener panel available in smooth or embossed surface finishes, designed for both standard roofing and rainscreen applications including uninsulated screen-wall systems and insulated composite backup systems with ATMP® technology.
| Coverage Width | 36 inches |
|---|---|
| Rib Spacing | 7.2" on-center |
| Side Lap Position | High rib (inverted installation) |
| Steel Gauges | 20, 22, 24 gauge |
| Aluminum Thicknesses | .032, .040, .050 |
| Available Lengths | 5'–40' (steel); up to 20' (aluminum) |
| Surface Finish | Smooth or embossed |
Snow Guard Options for Centria Style-Rib
The Style-Rib panel integrates with multiple SnoBlox-Snojax snow management solutions. You can choose products that retain snow on the roof surface until it melts, or products that facilitate a gradual, controlled shedding of snow in smaller, manageable portions:
- EcoJax — Polycarbonate pad guard; screw-down or adhesive mounting.
- SnoBlox Deuce — Retains snow and ice until melt; compatible with screws or SureBond SB-190 adhesive.
- SnowBreaker — Breaks accumulated snow into smaller fragments as it sheds; screws, adhesive, or SnowBreaker 3M (3M double-sided tape).
- SnoCleat PBR — Mechanically fastened individual cleat with butyl tape seal.
- SnoBar PBR — Galvanized steel snow rail; uses 1.5" wide Tall ColorBracket for attachment.
- ColorBar PBR — Aluminum snow rail; same Tall ColorBracket attachment as SnoBar PBR; custom color options available.
View the full Style-Rib Snow Guard Compatibility Chart ↓
Centria Super-Rib Screw-Down Roof Panel
Centria's Super-Rib is their most structurally capable exposed fastener panel, engineered to span greater distances while minimizing the need for additional support structures. Its 4-inch rib depth gives it excellent resistance to negative wind loads, making it a strong choice for both new construction and retrofit roofing projects.
| Coverage Width | 24 inches |
|---|---|
| Rib Depth | 4 inches |
| Side Lap Position | High point (inverted installation) |
| Primary Substrate | Galvanized steel (aluminum also available) |
| Steel Gauges | 18–22 gauge |
| Available Lengths | 5'–40' (steel); up to 20' (aluminum) |
| Surface Finish | Smooth or embossed |
Snow Guards for Centria Super-Rib: No Compatible Products Currently Available
SnoBlox-Snojax does not currently offer any snow guard products compatible with the Centria Super-Rib panel. The panel's 4-inch rib depth and 24-inch coverage width fall outside the dimensional range supported by our existing product line. If your project involves a Super-Rib roof in need of snow retention, please contact our team directly — we may be able to provide a custom recommendation or refer you to an alternative solution.
Reach us at 1-800-766-5291 or support@snojax.com.
View the full Super-Rib Snow Guard Compatibility Chart ↓
Centria TR4-36 Screw-Down Roof Panel
The TR4-36 is an exposed fastener metal roof panel with a visually distinctive standing rib design that delivers excellent negative wind load performance for both new construction and retrofit applications. Its versatility extends beyond roofing — the panel can also serve as exterior or interior wall cladding and soffits, with ribs oriented horizontally or vertically as required.
| Coverage Width | 36 inches |
|---|---|
| Rib Depth | 1.5 inches |
| Rib Spacing | 9 inches on-center |
| Primary Substrate | G-90 galvanized steel (aluminum and stainless steel also available) |
| Steel Gauges | 20–24 gauge |
| Insulation | Available as uninsulated or insulated system |
| Applications | Roofing, exterior/interior walls, soffits |
Snow Guard Options for Centria TR4-36 — Adhesive Only
While the TR4-36 shares dimensional similarities with a standard 9-inch R-panel, its uniquely shaped flat face sections — estimated at approximately 1.5" to 2" wide — significantly limit snow guard options. Do not use screw-down snow guards on the TR4-36. The raised center portion of this panel's flat sections means mechanical fasteners will crush the gap beneath the panel, creating a leak path and a structurally compromised installation.
Only adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guards are recommended for the TR4-36:
- SnoBlox Deuce — Retains snow and ice on the roof surface until natural melt; installed with SureBond SB-190 adhesive between the outside divots.
- SnowBreaker — Breaks accumulated snow into smaller, controlled fragments as it sheds; installed with adhesive between the outside divots.
We recommend contacting Centria directly to confirm precise flat-section dimensions, or ordering a sample snow guard from our website to test-fit on your panel before purchasing a full system.
View the full TR4-36 Snow Guard Compatibility Chart ↓
Centria MR3-36 Screw-Down Insulated Metal Roof Panel
The MR3-36 is an exposed fastener insulated metal panel designed primarily for roofing applications, with secondary use as wall cladding and soffits. Its robust 3-inch high ribs and strong wind load resistance make it suitable for fast-track scheduling in demanding climates across the USA and Canada, as panels can be installed in virtually any weather condition.
| Coverage Width | 36 inches |
|---|---|
| Rib Height | 3 inches |
| Steel Gauges | 20, 22, 24 gauge (standard: 24 gauge) |
| Stainless Steel | 20, 22 gauge |
| Aluminum Thicknesses | .040, .050 |
| Insulation | Insulated (enhanced thermal performance) |
| Premium Coatings | Allura, Celestial Effects, Duragard Plus, Fluorofinish |
| Side Lap Position | Higher rib (inverted for roofing) |
Snow Guard Options for Centria MR3-36 — Consult Before Purchasing
While the MR3-36 shares a 36-inch coverage width with standard 12-inch R-panels, its unique geometry — a single centered striation rather than two off-center striations — and its 3-inch rib height significantly limit compatible snow guard options. The ribs are also too tall to accommodate the SnoBar or ColorBar rail systems using the Tall ColorBracket.
We were unable to confirm solid flat-section dimensions for the MR3-36. Before specifying any snow retention system for this panel, we strongly recommend these steps:
- Contact Centria directly to obtain accurate panel cross-section dimensions for the specific profile you are working with.
- Order a sample snow guard from our website and physically test-fit it to a panel section before committing to a full system purchase.
View the full MR3-36 Snow Guard Compatibility Chart ↓
Centria Exposed Fastener Metal Roof — Snow Guard Compatibility Chart
| Snow Guard Product | Econolap 3/4 inch Profile | BR5-36 Profile | Style-Rib Profile | Super-Rib Profile | TR4-36 Profile | MR3-36 Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 EcoJax |
NO | YES | YES | NO | YES | NO |
 IceJax I |
NO | YES | NO | NO | NO | NO |
 IceJax II |
NO | NO | NO | NO | NO | NO |
 SnoBlox Deuce |
NO | YES | YES | NO | YES | NO |
 SnoBlox Ace |
NO | YES | NO | NO | NO | NO |
 SnoJax I |
NO | NO | NO | NO | NO | NO |
 SnoJax II |
NO | NO | NO | NO | NO | NO |
 SnowBreaker |
NO | YES | YES | NO | YES | NO |
 SnowCatcher |
NO | NO | NO | NO | NO | NO |
 SnoBar PBR |
NO | YES | YES | NO | NO | NO |
 ColorBar PBR |
NO | YES | YES | NO | NO | NO |
 SnoCleat PBR |
NO | YES | YES | NO | NO | NO |
 SnoCleat 2.67 |
YES | NO | NO | NO | NO | NO |
 SnoBar 2.67 |
YES | NO | NO | NO | NO | NO |
 ColorBar 2.67 |
YES | NO | NO | NO | NO | NO |
Purchasing and Installing Snow Guards for Centria Metal Roofs: Key Considerations
Assessing Snow Load Requirements
Your project's ground snow load — derived from historical weather data per ASCE 7 (USA) or the National Building Code of Canada — is the primary factor in selecting the right snow retention system. For ground snow loads up to 45 PSF, individual adhesive-based or mechanically fastened snow guards, or screw-down rail systems, are generally appropriate. Rail systems are recommended when ground snow loads exceed 45 PSF. Ground snow load data is available through ASCE 7 maps, online resources, local building departments, or your project's structural drawings.
Ensuring a Watertight Roof Installation
Products such as SnoCleat PBR, SnoCleat 2.67, SnowCatchers, and all screw-down rail systems incorporate butyl tape gaskets that create a secure weatherproof seal without the need for liquid sealants. When combined with screws fitted with neoprene washers, a fully watertight installation is achieved. Some installers apply a neutral-curing cold-weather liquid silicone (such as Novaflex MR150) around base edges for additional protection. For polycarbonate snow guards attached with screws, a neutral-curing silicone sealant applied around the entire base is essential for a complete seal.
Timing Adhesive Installations Correctly
Screw-down snow guards and rail systems can be installed year-round on a clean, dry roof surface. Adhesive-based installations require careful timing. The industry-standard adhesive SureBond SB-190, used with polycarbonate snow guards, requires approximately 28 days at 50°F (10°C) to fully cure. The optimal installation window in the USA and Canada is late spring or early summer. Cold temperatures below 50°F will temporarily pause — but not damage — the curing process; curing resumes once temperatures rise.
Matching Snow Guard Color to Your Roof
SnoBlox-Snojax offers multiple color-matching solutions so your snow retention system blends seamlessly with your Centria roof finish. Interchangeable color strips can be slid directly into SnoCleat and ColorBar products to match your panel color. All metal snow guards are also available with custom powder-coating, which typically requires a 3–4 week lead time. For faster turnaround, guards can be powder-coated locally or painted on-site to match your specific color specifications.
Layout Planning and Spacing
Before purchasing any snow retention system, always obtain a layout recommendation from the manufacturer — installing snow guards in isolated spots is a primary cause of system failure. SnoBlox-Snojax provides complimentary spacing charts and a quote request form for customers who need a custom layout plan. Full-roof coverage following the specified layout is essential for reliable performance and to avoid overloading individual attachment points.
Structural Requirements for Mechanical Fastening
When installing snow guards with mechanical fasteners, screws must anchor into at least 1 inch of solid wood structure — such as plywood decking, purlins, or retrofit blocking. On pre-engineered metal buildings, mount snow guards directly into metal purlins whenever possible. Relying solely on the metal panel as structural support substantially increases pull-out risk and is not recommended. If solid substrate is unavailable and the ground snow load is 45 PSF or less, consider switching to an adhesive-based product rather than adding blocking.
Frequently Asked Questions: Snow Guards for Centria Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing
What snow guards are compatible with the Centria Econolap 3/4" metal roof?
The Econolap 3/4" is compatible with three SnoBlox-Snojax products: the SnoCleat 2.67, SnoBar 2.67, and ColorBar 2.67. All three use the ColorBracket 2.67 mounting bracket, which attaches to the panel's corrugated ridges with 3-inch screws. Each bracket provides six attachment holes — use four or all six screws depending on your local ground snow load.
What snow guards work on the Centria BR5-36 metal roof panel?
The BR5-36 supports the widest range of SnoBlox-Snojax products of any Centria profile: EcoJax, IceJax I, SnoBlox Deuce, SnoBlox Ace, SnowBreaker, SnoCleat PBR, SnoBar PBR, and ColorBar PBR. You can choose between individual polycarbonate pad guards and continuous rail systems, with screw or adhesive installation depending on the specific product and your snow load.
Are there snow guards available for the Centria Super-Rib panel?
No — SnoBlox-Snojax does not currently offer any snow guard products compatible with the Super-Rib's 4-inch rib depth and 24-inch coverage width. Call 1-800-766-5291 or email support@snojax.com to discuss your project requirements.
Why can't I use screw-down snow guards on a Centria TR4-36 roof?
The TR4-36's raised center flat sections mean that a mechanical fastener would crush the gap beneath the panel, creating a leak path and a structurally compromised installation. Only adhesive-mounted polycarbonate guards — the SnoBlox Deuce or SnowBreaker, installed between the outside panel divots using SureBond SB-190 adhesive — are recommended for this profile.
When is the best time to install adhesive snow guards in the USA or Canada?
Late spring or early summer is the optimal window. SureBond SB-190 adhesive requires approximately 28 days at 50°F (10°C) to fully cure. Cold temperatures below 50°F will pause curing temporarily without damaging the bond. Screw-down products and rail systems can be installed any time of year as long as the roof surface is clear, dry, and free of debris.
How do I determine the correct snow guard spacing for my Centria metal roof?
Start with your project's ground snow load from ASCE 7 (USA) or the NBC snow load tables (Canada). Then use the free SnoBlox-Snojax spacing chart or submit a quote request for a custom layout recommendation. Never install snow guards in isolated patches — full-roof coverage per the manufacturer's layout is required for safe, reliable performance.
Do polycarbonate snow guard installations require any sealant?
Yes. For polycarbonate snow guards installed with screws, apply a neutral-curing cold-weather liquid silicone sealant (such as Novaflex MR150) around the entire base to create a watertight seal. For metal cleat-style guards like SnoCleat PBR and SnoCleat 2.67, the integrated butyl tape gasket handles sealing, though some installers add a bead of silicone around the perimeter for extra protection.
Get Expert Help Choosing Snow Guards for Your Centria Roof
SnoBlox-Snojax has been the trusted North American authority in snow retention systems since 1976. Whether you're specifying a system for a new Centria-clad commercial building or retrofitting an existing industrial or agricultural facility, our team can confirm compatibility, calculate the right layout for your snow load zone, and ensure your installation is watertight and field-proven.
Contact us at support@snojax.com or 1-800-766-5291. Additional resources to support your purchasing decision:
- Snow Guard Buyer's Guide — In-depth guidance on selecting the right system for your roof type, pitch, and snow load zone.
- “What Works and What Doesn’t” — Practical field insight on proven installation practices and common pitfalls to avoid.
- Free Spacing Charts — Downloadable layout guides organized by product, roof type, and ground snow load zone.
- Metal Panel Manufacturer Compatibility Blog Series — Snow guard guides for Metal Sales, McElroy, Fabral, and other leading panel manufacturers.
- Installation Instructions — Step-by-step guides for every SnoBlox-Snojax product.