Snow Guards for Gibraltar Building Products Exposed-Fastener Panels

See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Gibraltar Building Products Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

Which Snow Guards Work Best with Gibraltar Building Products' Exposed-Fastener Panels?

Exposed-fastener metal roofing is known for shedding snow and ice in large sheets when conditions allow.

Instead of gradually melting away, the entire layer can detach at once because the smooth panel surface offers little resistance. This sudden drop, often described as a roof avalanche, can endanger anyone or anything positioned below the eaves, including vehicles, walkways, people, pets, and landscaping. To help reduce these risks, we offer snow management systems compatible with most panel profiles and regional snow loads. Depending on the building and climate, installers may choose individual pad-style guards or continuous rail systems that span the roof. We also provide extensive resources, including informative blogs, installation guides, compatibility tools, and manufacturer-specific articles, to help contractors and property owners select the right solution. Controlling snow movement is an important part of protecting a metal roof, whether the structure is in a mild climate or an area that regularly sees heavy winter storms.

About Gibraltar Building Products

Gibraltar Building Products, part of Gibraltar Industries, has built a strong reputation as a reliable source for roofing and construction materials. Founded in 1993 in Buffalo, New York, the company has expanded from a small regional supplier into a nationwide manufacturer known for dependable performance and forward-thinking design. Its catalog includes advanced standing-seam systems such as Verti-Lok and SEM-Lok, which feature concealed fasteners for a clean appearance and long-lasting durability. These panels deliver the aesthetics and weather resistance required in residential, architectural, light‑commercial, and industrial projects.

5V Crimp Panels

The 5V Crimp panel features a classic exposed-fastener profile, with five shallow V-shaped ribs and a traditional coastal look. It offers dependable water shedding and long-term performance for homes, barns, and small commercial buildings. The panel provides 24 inches of coverage with a 7/16-inch rib height and 12-inch rib spacing, creating a low-profile appearance that complements historic and coastal-inspired architecture. Gibraltar produces these panels in Galvalume or painted steel in 26- and 24-gauge thicknesses and requires a minimum roof pitch of 3:12. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Gibraltar Building Products 5V Crimp Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

This profile is compatible with a broad selection of our snow-retention products. Stainless steel SnowCatchers, available in designs such as Standard, Sun Burst, Maple Leaf, Fleur-de-lis, Kodiak, and Mustang, can be installed individually across the roof. Several polycarbonate options also work well on this panel, including the SnoBlox Deuce, IceJax II, and SnoBlox Ace, which can be attached using screws or adhesive. Installers must mechanically fasten the Snojax I, which is the only exception. For controlled snow release, the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M help break snow into smaller, safer pieces. In regions with snow loads above 45 psf, or for those who prefer a streamlined appearance, the SnoBar and ColorBar rail systems offer a strong, modern solution. These systems use Tall ColorBrackets with butyl tape gaskets to create a secure, visually consistent installation.

Corrugated Panels

Corrugated roofing features a repeating wave pattern that increases panel strength while keeping the material lightweight and cost-effective. The most common roofing version, 2½-inch corrugated, uses a 2½-inch rib height and 2.67-inch spacing, creating the familiar rolling profile that sheds water efficiently. These panels are available in 26- and 24-gauge steel with Galvalume or painted finishes and require a minimum slope of 3:12. A variant of this panel with 1 ¼-inch-high ribs is also available. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Gibraltar Building Products Corrugated Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

Because of its curved profile, these snow guards mount on the high ribs rather than the flats. The SnoCleat 2.67 attaches with 3-inch screws, while the SnoBar and ColorBar rail systems pair with the ColorBracket 2.67. This bracket includes six screw holes for added strength, though four fasteners are usually sufficient. In areas with heavy snowfall or extreme weather, using all six screws provides maximum holding power and long-term reliability.

PBR & R Panels

PBR and R-Panel profiles are robust exposed-fastener systems designed for long spans, high wind resistance, and demanding industrial environments. Their deep ribs provide 36 inches of coverage with a 1¼-inch rib height and 12-inch spacing, giving the panels the structural strength needed for warehouses, agricultural buildings, and commercial facilities. PBR panels include a purlin-bearing leg that improves support when installed over open framing. These profiles work on roof pitches as low as 1:12 and are available in 29, 26, and 24‑gauge steel with Galvalume or painted finishes. A variant of this panel with 1 1/8-inch-high ribs is also available. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Gibraltar Building Products PBR & R Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

These panels work with a wide range of our snow-retention options. All six Stainless Steel SnowCatcher designs fasten mechanically to the panel surface. Polycarbonate guards such as the SnoBlox Deuce, IceJax II, and SnoBlox Ace can be installed with screws or adhesive, while the Snojax I must be screw-mounted. For controlled snow breakup, the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M are effective choices. In regions with snow loads above 45 psf or for projects seeking a cleaner look, SnoBar and ColorBar rail systems provide a strong, low-profile solution. These systems use Tall ColorBrackets with butyl tape gaskets for a secure installation.

SM-RIB Panels

SM-RIB is an agricultural-grade exposed-fastener panel commonly used on barns, post-frame buildings, sheds, and light-commercial structures where durability and cost efficiency are key. The profile offers 36 inches of coverage with a ¾-inch rib height and 9-inch spacing, creating a more pronounced rib pattern than corrugated panels while remaining easy to install. Its deeper ribs improve rigidity, uplift resistance, and overall performance in demanding environments. SM-RIB panels are available in 29-, 26-, and 24-gauge steel with Galvalume or painted finishes, and require a minimum slope of 3:12. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Gibraltar Building Products SM-RIB Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

This profile supports a wide variety of our snow-retention products. Polycarbonate guards such as the SnoBlox Deuce, EcoJax, and SnowBreaker fit neatly between the minor ribs. Metal options like the SnoCleat PBR and all SnowCatcher designs attach to the flat center area using screws. Other models, including the Snojax I and IceJax I, span the minor ribs; IceJax I can be installed with adhesive or screws, while Snojax I requires mechanical fastening. The panel also works with Tall ColorBrackets, which pair with ColorBar PBR or SnoBar PBR rail systems. This broad compatibility makes the SM-RIB a dependable choice for managing snow in a wide range of climates.

Gibraltar Building Products Compatibility Chart for Exposed-Fastener Snow Guards

	5V Crimp Panels	Corrugated Panels	PBR & R Panels	SM-Rib Panels
Ecojax	YES	NO	YES	YES
IceJax I	YES	NO	YES	YES
IceJax II	YES	NO	YES	NO
SnoBlox Deuce	YES	NO	YES	YES
Ace	YES	NO	YES	NO
Snojax I	YES	NO	YES	NO
Snojax II	YES	NO	YES	NO
SnowBreaker	YES	NO	YES	YES
SnowCatcher	YES	NO	YES	YES
SnoBar PBR	YES	NO	YES	YES
ColorBar PBR	YES	NO	YES	YES
SnoCleat PBR	YES	NO	YES	YES
SnoCleat 2.67	YES	YES	NO	NO
SnoBar 2.67	NO	YES	NO	NO
ColorBar 2.67	NO	YES	NO	NO

Considerations for Adding Snow Guards to Exposed Fastener Roofs by Gibraltar Building Products

How Can I Fasten Snow Guards for Maximum Strength?

For the most dependable hold, attach snow guards directly to framing components such as purlins or rafters rather than relying solely on the roof panels. Anchoring them to these structural elements increases load capacity and supports long-term durability.

Should I Test Fit Snow Guards Before Final Installation?

Testing and temporarily positioning the guards before fastening them allows you to verify spacing, alignment, and the overall layout. This quick check helps ensure an even pattern and a clean, professional appearance once everything is permanently secured.

When Is the Best Time to Install Adhesive-Mounted Snow Guards?

Adhesive-applied guards achieve their strongest bond in warm conditions, typically from late spring into early summer when temperatures remain above 50°F. Warm weather speeds curing, and adhesives like SureBond SB-190 generally reach moisture resistance in about a day.

What Snow Guard Solutions Work Best for Unique Roof Shapes?

Curved, arched, and otherwise unusual roof profiles require guards that installers select or fabricate to match the exact contour. Standard units may not sit correctly, so custom options and careful adherence to manufacturer guidelines are essential for reliable performance.

Should I Use Sealant Under My Screw-Mounted Snow Guards?

Applying sealant beneath screw-mounted guards helps seal small gaps, reduce the potential for leaks, and prevent moisture from entering the roof system. This barrier strengthens the overall integrity of the installation.

How Can I Coordinate My Snow Guards with My Roof?

Selecting finishes that complement the roof’s color and texture helps the guards blend naturally with the structure. Powder-coated finishes offer long-lasting color, while field-applied coatings provide a more economical way to achieve a customized appearance.

Conclusion

At SnoBlox-Snojax, long-term performance is the foundation of every product we manufacture. Our snow guards and snow retention systems withstand repeated freeze–thaw cycles, substantial snow loads, and harsh winter conditions without the premature failures common in short-term or lower-grade alternatives. Customers across the United States and around the world rely on our products not only because they hold up in demanding environments, but also because we pair them with attentive, personalized support. From the earliest planning discussions through the final installation steps, our team provides clear guidance, practical recommendations, and timely assistance. Resources like our Snow Guard Buyer's Guide and comprehensive Best Practices manual give contractors and property owners the information they need to choose systems that match their roof profile and local climate. Whether someone reaches out by phone or email, they receive tailored product suggestions, help confirming compatibility, and prompt answers to installation or ordering questions. By simplifying the process and backing it with experienced insight, we help ensure every project results in a snow retention system that performs reliably for years to come.

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.