Snow Guards For HPM Building Supply Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels

See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for HPM Building Supply Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

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

Metal roofs, particularly those with exposed fastener designs, pose significant challenges during winter. The primary concern is the risk of sudden snow and ice slides, which threaten people, pets, and property below. The smooth surface of metal roofs increases the likelihood of snow avalanches, heightening this risk. Effective snow retention systems ensure safety. Snow guards are specialized solutions to this problem. They are compatible with various metal roof designs. When selecting a snow retention system, it's essential to consider factors such as roof slope, panel design, and local weather patterns. Educational resources are available To assist building owners, homeowners, and facility managers in making informed decisions. These include blogs, informational pages, and databases of compatible products for various metal panel manufacturers. Focusing on education and innovative solutions aims to mitigate the risks associated with snow and ice slides. This approach aims to create safer environments in regions prone to heavy snowfall, allowing customers to enjoy the benefits of metal roofing without compromising safety during harsh winter conditions.

Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels by HPM Building Supply

HPM Building Supply has been a cornerstone of Hawaii's construction industry for over a century, establishing itself as the go-to source for building materials through its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer service. The company offers a comprehensive range of products, from professional-grade lumber and trusses to custom metal roofing and pre-engineered wall panels, catering to residential and commercial projects. HPM's network includes specialized facilities like home design centers and lumberyards, ensuring convenient access to materials for contractors and builders. The company's recent expansion to Lānaʻi and establishing a distribution center in Washington demonstrate its dedication to serving local and mainland markets. HPM also supports homeowners by providing house plans and materials for new construction, helping to streamline the building process and reduce costs. With its extensive reach and solid reputation, HPM has become an indispensable partner for builders across the Hawaiian islands.

Custom 6-Rib (Pattern 8)

The Custom 6-Rib (Pattern 8) panel is a versatile roofing solution suitable for homes and commercial structures. This steel panel features a modern design with six ribs evenly distributed across its width, providing a sleek appearance while maintaining structural integrity. Crafted from 26, 24, or 22 gauge steel and .032" or .040" aluminum, the panel offers a balance of durability and style, with a coverage width of 32-1/2 inches and a total width of 36 inches. The ribs' 1-1/8 inch height contributes to the panel's distinctive profile. One of the strengths of this roofing system is its adaptability to various architectural designs. The Custom 6-Rib panel can be installed on roofs with slopes as gentle as 3:12, making it a flexible option for many diverse building styles. The panels can be manufactured in lengths up to 42 feet, which allows for expansive coverage with minimal seams. Installation is streamlined through exposed fasteners, potentially reducing labor time and costs. Performance-wise, this roofing panel has demonstrated its resilience through various industry-standard tests. HPM tested it according to ASTM E1592 for wind uplift resistance. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for HPM Building Supply Custom 6-Rib (Pattern 8) Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

The Custom 6-Rib (Pattern 8) Panel's ribs are spaced at 6-1/2" on-center, limiting some snow guard options. However, 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. Customers who don't want to penetrate their roofs but lack time for glue curing can install the 3M version using our double-sided tape pads. Tall ColorBrackets also allow mechanically fastened SnoBar and ColorBar systems to be attached to this panel.

Custom 4-Rib (Pattern 9)

The Custom 4-Rib (Pattern 9) panel, commonly called an "R" panel, is a versatile roofing solution offered by HPM Building Supply Metal Roofs. This product stands out for its efficient 36-inch net coverage and adaptability. It is suitable for various applications beyond roofing, including siding, fascia, and soffits. The panel's design incorporates 1-3/16-inch high major ribs spaced 12 inches apart and features an anti-siphon groove for added protection. However, we recommend additional sealant for optimal performance. One of the panel's strengths lies in its structural capabilities, allowing for installation on open purlins. Customers can order custom lengths up to 42 feet, providing flexibility for different project requirements. The Custom 4-Rib panel is available in both steel and aluminum options in various gauges. The product has undergone rigorous testing for wind uplift and air and water resistance, adhering to ASTM standards. HPM recommends a minimum slope of 3:12 for installation, and the panel is compatible with similar skylight panels for integrated designs. It's important to note that there may be a slight variance in the nominal panel width. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for HPM Building Supply Custom 4-Rib (Pattern 9) Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

The Custom 4-Rib (Pattern 9) panel system provides a versatile and comprehensive solution for snow guard installation, accommodating various models and designs. This system offers flexibility to meet diverse needs, from screw-down varieties like SnoBar and ColorBar rail systems to specialized options such as SnoCleat PBR and various stainless steel SnowCatcher designs. Most polycarbonate snow guards can be mounted using screws or adhesives, with Surebond SB-190 recommended for its excellent bonding properties. However, this glue is not suitable for metal pad-style guards. Proper placement is crucial for optimal performance, with specific guidelines for different models. Installers should avoid attaching snow guards directly to the panel's high ribs for maximum stability and strength. Instead, they should secure the snow guards through the panel's low flats into a solid underlying structure, which is the most effective method. This approach guarantees a robust and reliable snow retention system capable of withstanding harsh winter conditions.

Commercial-Rib (Pattern 7)

The Commercial-Rib (Pattern 7) panel is a versatile roofing solution suitable for commercial and residential projects. This panel features a coverage width of 34-7/8 inches and a rib height of 7/8 inches, creating a sturdy and visually appealing profile. Crafted from 26, 24, and 22 gauge steel or .032" and .04" aluminum, this panel is designed for longevity and strength. It features a Kynar 500® PVDF paint system, which provides excellent color retention and weather resistance. The manufacturer's confidence in the product is evident in its warranty offerings: a 40-year limited warranty on the paint and a 25-year limited warranty on the substrate. This roofing panel is highly adaptable and can be installed over open framing or solid substrate, making it suitable for new construction and re-roofing projects. It requires a minimum slope of 3:12 for roof applications and utilizes AZ50 Galvalume® as its substrate. HPM recommends the Commercial-Rib (Pattern 7) panel for various structures, including agricultural buildings, commercial properties, industrial facilities, and residential homes. Its combination of functionality and aesthetic appeal makes it a popular choice for various architectural needs. It offers a balance of durability and visual attractiveness that suits many different building styles and purposes.See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for HPM Building Supply Commercial-Rib (Pattern 7) Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

The Commercial-Rib (Pattern 7) Panels stand out with their distinctive wavy corrugated pattern, setting them apart from traditional exposed fastener roofing systems. This unique design allows for the installation of snow guards on the elevated ribs, a feature not commonly available in other screw-down roofing styles. The Commercial-Rib (Pattern 7) Panel is compatible with several options for snow retention solutions. The newly launched SnoCleat 2.67 snow guards can be securely attached to the panel's raised ribs using 3-inch screws. Alternatively, customers can choose the SnoBar or ColorBar snow retention systems, which also use the ColorBracket 2.67, like the SnoCleat 2.67. Each ColorBracket 2.67 includes six attachment points to enhance mounting strength. While only four screws per bracket are required, customers have the option to use all six screws, especially in areas with severe weather conditions, ensuring a sturdy and reliable installation.

HPM Building Supply Compatibility Chart for Snow Guards

Considerations for Adding Snow Guards to Exposed Fastener Roofs by HPM Building Supply

Ensuring Waterproofing for Snow Guards

Proper silicone sealant application is crucial for screw-mounted polycarbonate snow guards. Cover the base and press down firmly to eliminate any trapped air. While metal snow guards and rail brackets come with waterproof gaskets, some installers add sealant around the edges for extra protection, although this is not mandatory.

Assessing Your Roof's Snow Load Capacity

Knowing your roof's snow load capacity is essential when selecting the right snow retention system. Meteorologists use historical data to determine regional ground snow loads. Individual guards or screw-down rails are generally sufficient in areas with 45 PSF or lower ground snow loads. However, rail systems are advisable for regions with heavier snowfall.

Best Timing for Installing Adhesive Snow Guards

The timing for installing adhesive snow guards is critical. In North America, late spring or early summer is the best time to do this. The adhesive, Surebond SB190, requires about a month of temperatures above 50°F (10°C) for complete curing. While cold weather can hinder the curing process, rain is not an issue after the first 24 hours.

Harmonizing Snow Guards with Your Roof's Design

Snow guards should match your roof's color scheme to achieve a cohesive aesthetic. You can order custom color strip inserts for ColorBar and SnoCleat systems or repurpose leftover roofing materials to create your own. Metal pad-style guards and rail systems can also be powder-coated for a precise match. If you need a quicker solution, consider local coating services or DIY painting, but be aware that powder coating may take longer.

Optimal Placement for Effective Snow Guards

The placement of snow guards is vital for their functionality. Always follow the recommended guidelines for the best configuration. Avoid clustering guards in specific isolated areas, such as directly above doorways or walkways, as this can overload the system and lead to failure. Our website offers valuable resources, including spacing guides and quote request forms.

Securely Fastening Snow Guards

Properly securing snow guards is essential for mechanically mounted roofs. They should be attached to a solid substrate, ideally with at least one inch of durable wood, such as plywood decking or purlins. For metal structures, the best practice is to connect directly to metal purlins. Avoid depending solely on the roof panel for support. Consider using adhesive-mounted guards for less sturdy roofs if additional reinforcement isn't feasible.

Conclusion

SnoBlox-Snojax stands at the forefront of snow guard solutions, offering a diverse product range and tailored support for optimal installations. Our dedicated team provides personalized guidance through various communication channels, ensuring customers receive expert assistance throughout the installation. SnoBlox-Snojax has developed comprehensive resources to empower clients, including a detailed Snow Guard Buyer's Guide and an informative "What Works and What Doesn't" page. These tools offer valuable insights and practical information, enabling customers to make well-informed decisions. By extending our commitment to quality beyond products and into customer education, SnoBlox-Snojax equips clients with the knowledge and resources necessary for successful snow guard implementations, ultimately fostering a deeper understanding of our offerings and enhancing overall customer satisfaction.

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.