Snow Guards For Exposed Fastener Roof Panels by McElroy Metal

The metal roofing market today presents customers with an array of panel options. While this extensive variety is excellent for meeting diverse needs, it can also lead to decision fatigue. This blog series aims to highlight prominent metal panel manufacturers and provide recommendations for compatible snow guard solutions, empowering customers to navigate this process confidently.

Snow Guards For Exposed Fastener McElroy Metal Roofing

McElroy Metal, founded in 1963, has become a prominent nationwide company. Today, the organization boasts a solid operational foundation, including 14 manufacturing sites, 28 service centers, and 44 Metal Mart retail outlets strategically located across the United States. The company continues to operate under the principle of treating customers as they would want to be treated by their suppliers, an approach they acknowledge as old-fashioned but effective. In 2023, after being family-owned for three generations, McElroy transitioned to an employee-owned company. The company's president cited the loyal and long-serving employees as the driving force behind the company's 60-year success story.

McElroy Metal offers various exposed fastener metal roof panels for diverse project needs. These panels are known for their versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness, making them a popular choice for residential and commercial applications. Let's explore the individual exposed fastener metal roof panels from McElroy Metal.

R-Panel Metal Roofing Panel

R-Panel is a multi-purpose wall and roof panel used in pre-engineered metal building and residential metal roofing projects, particularly in the Southwestern United States. It features an optional purlin bearing leg (PBR) that rests on the purlins to provide support and has a 1-1/4 inch major rib spaced 12 inches on-center and complemented by evenly spaced minor ribs, available in 22, 24, 26, and 29 gauge thicknesses, making it a versatile and durable solution for a variety of metal building and roofing projects. R-Panel has a minimum slope requirement of 1:12 with sealant.

R-Panels offer exceptional versatility for snow guard installations, providing many options. These panels are compatible with our screw-down SnoBar and ColorBar, as well as the SnoCleat PBR and our stainless steel SnowCatcher models, including the Standard, Fleur-de-lis, Sun Burst, Maple Leaf, Mustang, and Kodiak. Regarding the attachment of polycarbonate snow guards, most of our models, except for the Snojax I, can be attached to this panel using either adhesive or screws. The Snojax I, however, requires installation with mechanical fasteners only. It is essential to use Surebond SB-190 adhesive only for polycarbonate models, as this adhesive is not compatible with metal pad-style snow guards.

Often, you should mount the snow guards between the minor ribs in the center of the panels. However, specific guards, such as the Snojax II and Icejax II, require off-center mounting to straddle either the left or right minor rib. Consistent mounting over the same rib is crucial in such instances. You should not screw individual snow guards or rail systems onto the high ribs of the panel. Instead, you should secure them by screwing down through the panel's low flats into a solid structure to achieve the best installation strength.

5V Metal Roofing Panel

Homeowners across the country are recognizing the benefits of 5V metal roofing. This roofing solution adds value to a home and provides an attractive aesthetic. The 24-inch wide 5V panels from McElroy feature a classic design that complements the appearance of any residence. Additionally, 5V panels are commonly used as interior liners or accent pieces, further enhancing the visual appeal of a home. The 5V roof panel is trendy in the United States' southern and southwestern coastal areas. These panels have a distinctive pattern of alternating single and double ribs, spaced approximately 12 inches apart and standing 1/2 inch tall. Homeowners can choose between 26-gauge and 29-gauge thickness options to suit their needs. 5V has a required minimum slope of 3:12 with sealant.

The 5V roof panel offers versatility when it comes to snow retention solutions. Homeowners can install individual pad-style snow guards, such as the stainless steel SnowCatchers, in various shapes like Standard, Sun Burst, Maple Leaf, Fleur-de-lis, Kodiak, and Mustang. Additionally, the 5V panel is compatible with a range of polycarbonate snow guards, including the SnoBlox Deuce, Icejax II, and SnoBlox Ace, which can be secured with screws or adhesive to prevent snow and ice buildup on the roof. The one exception to this rule is the Snojax I, which requires a screw-down installation. For customers who prefer to allow snow and ice to shed from their roofs while slowing it down and breaking it into smaller, safer pieces, the SnowBreaker or SnowBreaker 3M products are suitable solutions. Homeowners in high snow load areas or those seeking a sleek, modern snow retention system can consider installing the SnoBar and ColorBar snow rail systems using mechanically fastened Tall ColorBrackets and butyl tape gaskets.

Max-Rib Metal Roofing Panel

The Max-Rib panel from McElroy is a low-profile (3/4-inch) option well-suited for residential roofing and post-frame applications. Given different projects' varying needs and expectations, McElroy offers several distinct Max-Rib variants, including Max-Rib Ultra, Max-Rib II, Max-Rib 100, and Max-Rib Commodity/Liner. The performance standards, desired lifespan, and financial limitations will determine the ideal choice for your project. The standard Max-Rib panel features a 36-inch wide R-Panel design with 3/4-inch tall ribs spaced 9 inches apart and two minor ribs evenly positioned between them. This panel is available in 26- and 29-gauge thickness options and has a minimum slope requirement of 1:12 with or 3:12 without sealant.

The Max-Rib panel offers versatile attachment options for glue-down and screw-down methods. The Deuce and SnowBreaker snow guards can effectively use either attachment method between the minor ribs. For those interested in mounting a metal snow guard in the center flat of the panel using screws, the SnoCleat PBR and all six SnowCatcher shapes are compatible options. Additionally, the Snojax I and Icejax I can be utilized with this panel by straddling one of the minor ribs between each 9-inch rib. While most of our polycarbonate snow guards are compatible with glue-down or screw-down attachments, the Snojax I requires mechanical fastening and is unsuitable for glue-down installation. For those considering using ColorBar and SnoBar, these products are compatible with the Max-Rib panel when paired with Tall ColorBrackets and mechanical fasteners.

Mega-Rib Metal Roofing Panel

Mega-Rib is a 7.2-inch exposed fastener metal panel with exceptional strength and spanning capabilities suitable for industrial and commercial applications. When installed horizontally, this panel creates a bold architectural statement with its prominent ribs. The Mega-Rib panel has a minimum slope requirement of 1:12 and requires tape sealant regardless of the pitch. It is available in a range of gauge thicknesses, from 18 to 26 gauge, allowing you to select the option that best suits your project's needs and style preferences.

The 7.2-inch panel design features narrow, 1-1/2-inch-wide panel flats, limiting snow guard installation options. The polycarbonate SnoBlox Deuce allows you to hold snow and ice on the roof using a pad-style guard installed with either screws or adhesive. The SnowBreaker product, on the other hand, can help break up snow and ice into smaller, safer pieces as it sheds from the roof. Mega-Rib also works well with the galvanized SnoBar and Aluminum ColorBar snow rails, which utilize the 1.5-inch wide aluminum Tall ColorBracket for attachment.

Mesa Metal Roofing Panel

The Mesa panel is a low-profile (3/4") roofing option that resembles the Max-Rib panel. The patent and copyright on the Mesa panel prevent manufacturers from replicating it using lower-quality steel substrates and coatings. Homeowners seeking quality assurance and a distinct look not easily imitated will find the Mesa panel a reliable choice. The Mesa panel features a standard 36" width with 3/4" tall ribs spaced 9" apart and two minor ribs evenly positioned between them. Available thickness options include 26 and 29-gauge. Mesa metal panels require a minimum slope of 1:12 with sealant or 3:12 without sealant.

While the Mesa panel shares dimensional similarities with a standard 9" r-panel, its angular-shaped faces limit the options for snow guard installation. We estimate the width of the center flats to be approximately 1.5", in keeping with the traditional styling of this panel type. Contact the manufacturer or order a sample snow guard from our website before finalizing your system. This panel accommodates glue-down and screw-down attachment methods for various guards. The SnoBlox Deuce and SnowBreaker are compatible options mounted between the minor ribs. The Deuce retains snow and ice until it melts, while the SnowBreaker breaks it into smaller pieces as it sheds from the roof.

Additionally, the SnoCleat PBR and all 6 SnowCatcher shapes mount with screws in the panel's center flats. Snow guards that require off-center rib straddling are discouraged due to the panel's shape and the minor panel gaps created by the angled faces of the panel. The ColorBar and SnoBar systems are compatible with the Mesa panel when using Tall ColorBrackets and mechanical fasteners in the center flats.

Modern-Rib Metal Roofing Panel

McElroy Metal's Modern-Rib is its latest panel offering. This panel combines the cost-effectiveness of an exposed fastener design with the aesthetic appeal of standing seam panels, adding an elevated, sophisticated style to residential roofs and post-frame structures. The panel has a coverage width of 36 inches and features 3/4-inch high ribs spaced 12 inches apart. It is available in both 26-gauge and 29-gauge thickness options. The Modern-Rib panel requires a minimum roof slope of 1:12 when using sealant or 3:12 without sealant.

Because of this panel's consistent striation pattern, we do not recommend glue-down polycarbonate snow guards for use with this panel. Screw-down options like the SnoCleat PBR, screw-down polycarbonate snow guards, and screw-down rail systems with Tall ColorBrackets (SnoBar/ColorBar) should work with this panel. Before placing your main order, it is essential to complete a test fit of any snow guard or rail system you intend to use with this panel. We anticipate some slight crushing of the panel striations below the points of snow guard installation. It is up to the customer to determine if this is acceptable. It may also be worth contacting your local McElroy representative for their opinion.

Multi-Cor and M-Cor Metal Roofing Panels

McElroy's corrugated metal panels, known as Multi-Cor and M-Cor, are designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia and simpler times. These panels feature consistent, rounded corrugations that create a classic, timeless aesthetic for wall, roof, or interior accent panels. Horizontal installation of these panels showcases their distinctive corrugated design.

Despite the similarity in the overall design of Multi-Cor and M-Cor, the two products differ in their rib height and layout. Multi-Cor features a more pronounced 7/8-inch rib height, while M-Cor has a more subtle 1/2-inch rib height. Both panels offer a 32-inch coverage width, with ribs spaced 2.67 inches apart. They are available in a range of gauge thicknesses, from 22 to 29 gauge, and require a minimum slope of 1:12 for installation. McElroy makes no mention of the use of sealant with these panels. The unique corrugated design of these panels makes them unsuitable for most traditional snow retention methods that require flat surfaces. However, we offer a solution called SnoCleat 2.67. These can be installed directly on the high ribs of the panels using 3-inch screws, providing a secure attachment point. Wavy corrugated panels like this are exempt from the rules regarding screwing through the high ribs of panels because these brackets span multiple ribs.

Customers seeking a continuous snow rail or snow fence system can use SnoBar or ColorBar with the same 2.67 brackets as the SnoCleat. The ColorBracket 2.67 comes with six attachment holes. While only the use of 4 screws per bracket is required, customers can choose to use all six, thus allowing for enhanced mounting strength, particularly in more extreme weather conditions.

Multi-Rib Metal Roofing Panel

McElroy offers a proprietary version of the industry-standard R-Panel called the Multi-Rib Panel. Pre-engineered metal building applications primarily use this multi-purpose roof and wall panel. The panel features an optional purlin-bearing leg (PBR) that rests on the purlins and supports fastening the panel lap. The multi-rib panel is also commonly used for residential roofing, particularly in the southwestern region. With its bold 1-1/4-inch major ribs spaced 12 inches apart, the Multi-Rib panel adds a distinct aesthetic appeal to any home.

The panel's MoistureLok feature also helps address condensation challenges by trapping moisture and releasing it into the air as natural humidity once conditions drop below the dew point. This panel has a coverage width of 36" with a minimum slope requirement of 1:12 with sealant. It is available in 22, 24, and 26 gauge options.

The Multi-Rib panels offer a wide range of compatibility with various snow guard installations. These panels integrate with the SnoBar, ColorBar, and the SnoCleat PBR. They are compatible with multiple stainless steel pad-style SnowCatcher models, such as the Standard, Fleur-de-lis, Sun Burst, Maple Leaf, Mustang, and Kodiak designs. Most of our polycarbonate snow guards can be secured using either adhesive or screws, except for the Snojax I, which requires installation solely with mechanical fasteners. It's essential to exclusively utilize Surebond SB-190 adhesive for polycarbonate models, as it isn't compatible with metal pad-style snow guards. Numerous snow guard choices get installed in the center of panels between the minor ribs; specific guards like the Snojax II and Icejax II necessitate off-center installation to span either the left or right minor rib. Ensuring consistent installation over the same rib is crucial in these instances.

U-Panel Metal Roofing Panel

The U-Panel from McElroy Metal is an exposed fastener wall and roof panel that offers a unique aesthetic compared to traditional options. With an approximate rib height of 47/64" and 6" on-center rib spacing, U-Panel has a lower profile and softer appearance than R-Panel or Multi-Rib, making it a popular choice for liner panels or partition walls. McElroy Metal's exposed fastener metal roof panels come in various profiles, rib heights, and design options to suit diverse residential, commercial, and industrial project needs. Whether you're looking for a classic corrugated look, a bold and modern profile, or a low-profile panel with a distinct appearance, they have a solution to bring your vision to life. The U-Panel features an overall width of 36" and requires a minimum slope of 1:12 with sealant. It has 22, 24, 26, and 29 gauge thickness options.

The U-Panel's low panel flats, approximately 3 1/2" wide, limit some customization options, but there are still plenty of choices available. We offer individual pad-style polycarbonate snow guards like the Ace, Deuce, or Icejax I for customers wanting to hold snow and ice on their roofs. Use SnowBreaker or SnowBreaker 3M snow guards if the goal is to allow snow and ice to shed in small, safer pieces in a slower, controlled manner. You can install these snow guards using screws or Surebond SB-190 adhesive. Tall ColorBrackets also allow mechanically fastened SnoBar and ColorBar to be attached to the U-Panel.

Considerations for Purchasing and Installing Snow Guards for McElroy Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing

1. Structural Support for Snow Guards

When installing snow guards with mechanical fasteners, anchoring them into at least 1 inch of solid wood structure, such as plywood decking, purlins, or retrofitting blocking, is crucial. For pre-engineered metal buildings, it's best to mount snow guards into metal purlins whenever possible. Relying solely on the panel as the structural support for snow guards or rails is not recommended, as it poses a high risk of failure. If the structure beneath the proposed snow guard mounting points is inadequate and the ground snow load is 45 psf or less, consider using a glue-down product if the installer cannot easily install additional blocking.

2. Understanding Ground Snow Load

The ground snow load is crucial in determining the appropriate snow retention system. This data is calculated based on historical records collected from weather stations nationwide. For projects experiencing ground snow loads of up to 45 PSF, consider glue-down and screw-down individual snow guards or screw-down snow rail systems. We recommend installing snow rail systems only in regions where ground snow loads exceed this threshold. You can typically access information regarding ground snow loads for your project through an online search or by reviewing the building plans.

3. Timing for Glue-Down Snow Guard Installation

You can install screw-down snow guards and rail systems year-round if the roof is free of snow, ice, and debris. Careful planning is essential when scheduling the installation of glue-down snow guards. Utilizing the industry-standard adhesive SureBond SB-190 for polycarbonate snow guard installation necessitates approximately 28 days at 50 degrees Fahrenheit for complete curing. Late spring or early summer is the optimal timeframe for customer installation in the USA and Canada. While temperatures below 50 degrees won't harm the adhesive, they will temporarily halt the curing process until the temperature rises.

4. Preventing Roof Leaks

Products like the SnoCleat PBR, SnoCleat 2.67, SnowCatchers, or a screw-down rail system come with butyl tape gaskets designed to seal without liquid sealant. Paired with screws featuring neoprene washers, this ensures a secure seal against the elements. While it's not mandatory, some customers apply liquid silicone around the edges of these snow guards to add another layer of protection. When attaching any polycarbonate snow guards to the roof using screws, it is essential to utilize a neutral curing, cold-weather liquid silicone to seal the entire base effectively.

5. Importance of a Layout Plan

Obtaining a design recommendation from the manufacturer is crucial, regardless of the type of snow retention system you're installing. We provide free spacing charts and quote request forms to help customers seeking custom layout guidance. Installing snow retention only in isolated areas is not advisable, as this installation method consistently poses a high risk of failure.

6. Color-Matching Options

We offer a range of color-matching solutions to ensure your snow guards seamlessly integrate with your roof, including slide-in color strips for SnoCleat and ColorBar and powder-coating options for all metal snow guards to achieve a perfect color match. At the same time, powder-coated products are custom-made upon order and have a typical lead time of 3 to 4 weeks, depending on color and project size. Customers can also have their snow guards powder-coated locally or painted upon arrival for a quicker turnaround and greater flexibility in color selection.

Conclusion

Choosing the appropriate snow guards for your project may initially seem complex. However, this blog post has provided valuable insights to help alleviate any concerns you may have. As we continue this series, you can look forward to expanded coverage that includes more roof panel manufacturers in future articles. When purchasing snow guards, you must seek assistance from a reputable, readily available company to address your questions and offer guidance. SnoBlox-Snojax is an excellent example of a manufacturer that meets and often exceeds this standard. For any inquiries or to place an order, contact us at support@snojax.com or call 1-800-766-5291. Additionally, explore our Snow Guard Buyer's Guide and What Works and What Doesn't Page for valuable information to aid your decision-making process.