Snow Guards For JD Metals Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels

See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for JD Metals Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing Panels.

What Are the Best Snow Guards for JD MEtals Exposed Fastener Steel Roofs?

As winter approaches, structures with exposed fastener metal roofs face unique seasonal challenges, with sudden snow and ice displacement posing significant risks.

The smooth surfaces of these roofs increase the likelihood of rapid snow slides or avalanches endangering nearby people, pets, and structures. Our specialized retention systems, including adaptable snow guards and customizable rail configurations tailored to diverse roof designs, have been engineered to address this. These solutions strategically regulate snow accumulation by accounting for variables such as roof pitch, panel types, and local climate demands. Our comprehensive resources, including instructional blogs, digital manuals, and an updated manufacturer compatibility list, are maintained and continue growing to support the proper implementation of our products. These systems are particularly valuable in areas with substantial snowfall, reducing dangers associated with frozen precipitation while enhancing structural safety. By mitigating winter-related hazards, they provide reliable protection and peace of mind throughout harsh weather conditions.

Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels by JD Metals

JD Metals, founded in 1994, has evolved from a local manufacturer to a regional provider of metal roofing and structural building solutions, serving customers across Tennessee, the Carolinas, Virginia, and parts of Georgia. Based in the Tri-Cities area of Northeast Tennessee, the company combines quality craftsmanship with attentive service, leveraging in-house production capabilities and a growing network of dealers. Offering products for residential and commercial applications, JD Metals specializes in durable roofing systems, siding options, and steel framing packages that emphasize both longevity and cost-effectiveness. Their portfolio includes adaptable solutions such as standing seam panels and tailored structural components, showcasing decades of experience addressing changing construction demands while maintaining a strong focus on customer support.

Tuff Rib

JD Metals' Tuff Rib roofing and siding panels offer an economical, durable solution for residential, commercial, and agricultural applications. Constructed from high-grade steel in 29, 26, or 24 gauges (with aluminum options available), these panels feature a 36-inch coverage width and a subtle 3/4-inch rib height for structural integrity. The panels come in WeatherXL™, Crinkle™, and Fluropon™ finishes through Sherwin-Williams®, combining aesthetic versatility with weather resistance. They include an anti-siphon side-lap system designed for exposed-fastener installation to enhance weather-tightness. Contractors can install these panels over open framing or solid surfaces with a recommended minimum roof slope of 3:12. A limited lifetime paint warranty backs the Tuff Rib panels. It provides reliable performance in G90 galvanized or Galvalume coatings, making them a practical choice for cost-conscious projects requiring lasting protection. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for JD Metals Metal Tuff Rib Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

Tuff Rib Panels integrate well with many of our snow retention systems, offering tailored approaches for different material preferences. For polycarbonate applications, the SnoBlox Deuce and SnowBreaker models are ideal, designed for secure placement within the central flat regions between minor ribs. Metal panel users have options such as the screw-mounted SnoCleat PBR or our six versatile SnowCatcher configurations installed in the panel's midsection. Straddling the minor ribs, the Snojax I and Icejax I provide alternative solutions; the former requires mechanical fasteners, while the latter supports adhesive and screw-based installation. Tuff Rib Panels can be paired with Tall ColorBrackets and compatible fasteners to enhance snow management capabilities. This ability enables aluminum ColorBar PBR or galvanized SnoBar PBR snow rail systems. This cohesive approach ensures reliable snow load distribution, adapting effectively to diverse climates and structural demands. By accommodating varied product choices and installation techniques, Tuff Rib Panels empower users to craft project-specific solutions that mitigate snow-related risks, fostering confidence in long-term performance and safety.

R-Panel / PBR Panel

JD Metals offers versatile R-Panel and PBR Panel metal siding solutions for commercial, agricultural, and industrial applications. The R-Panel features pronounced ribs and is intended primarily for wall installations. At the same time, the PBR Panel serves dual purposes, such as roofing and siding. Constructed from durable 26-gauge steel, these panels are available in painted steel or Galvalume finishes, backed by a limited lifetime paint warranty. They provide 36 inches of coverage per panel with a 1.25-inch rib height. They are compatible with exposed fasteners for straightforward installation over open framing or solid surfaces. The panels come in 24 WeatherXL™ color options from Sherwin-Williams® and select Crinkle™ and Fluropon™ finishes, ensuring aesthetic flexibility. Suitable for structures like barns, warehouses, and industrial facilities, the roofing applications require a minimum slope of 1:12 to ensure proper performance. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for JD Metals Metal R-Panel / PBR Panel Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

This panel system provides exceptional flexibility for installing our diverse snow guards. This panel supports mechanical fastening methods and adhesive bonding for most of our polycarbonate-based snow guards, except for the Snojax I model, which exclusively requires screw-mounted installation. Optimal placement involves positioning compact snow guards between the central minor ribs, while specialized versions like the Snojax II and Icejax II necessitate alignment over either the left or right minor ribs or mesas rather than the panel's center line. Installers must avoid anchoring devices to the panel's elevated ribs, instead securing them to the lower, flat areas where structural support from the underlying framework ensures enhanced durability. The Surebond SB-190 adhesive remains the recommended choice for adhesive applications on polycarbonate units. However, this product is incompatible with metal pad-style guards.

5-V Panels

JD Metals' 5-V metal roofing panels combine classic design with modern durability, which makes them ideal for residential, commercial, and agricultural projects. These panels feature a distinctive 24-inch coverage width, a ½-inch rib height, and exposed fasteners designed for installation over solid substrates with underlayment and a minimum 3:12 roof slope. Constructed from high-grade steel or aluminum, 29, 26, and 24 gauges are offered to suit varying structural needs. Coastal environments showcase the panels' excellence, and homeowners favor them for creating a rustic barn-style aesthetic. Finishing options include WeatherXL™ for superior scratch resistance and color retention, Fluropon™ for extreme weather performance, textured Crinkle™ coatings, and metallic Galvalume. Customers can choose from 23 Sherwin-Williams® WeatherXL™ colors and additional hues in Fluropon™ and Crinkle™ finishes. Backed by warranties such as a limited lifetime paint guarantee, these panels prioritize longevity and weather resistance while maintaining visual appeal through their traditional profile and versatile color palette. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for JD Metals Metal 5-V Panels Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

The 5-V Crimp panel offers homeowners compatibility with multiple snow retention solutions tailored to diverse needs and preferences. Pad-style snow guards like stainless steel SnowCatchers are available in various designs such as Standard, Sun Burst, Maple Leaf, Fleur-de-lis, Kodiak, and Mustang. For polycarbonate options, systems like our SnoBlox Deuce, Icejax II, and SnoBlox Ace provide flexibility with screw or adhesive installations. However, Snojax I requires mechanical fastening exclusively. Homeowners prioritizing a natural approach can opt for SnowBreaker or SnowBreaker 3M systems, which allow snow and ice to shed gradually in smaller, safer portions, reducing risks to people and structures below. In regions with snow loads surpassing 45 pounds per square foot or for those seeking contemporary designs, the SnoBar and ColorBar rail systems deliver functionality and aesthetics. These systems employ Tall ColorBrackets secured with mechanical fasteners and butyl tape gaskets to create a durable, visually streamlined barrier against rooftop snow and ice buildup.

JD Metals Compatibility Chart for Snow Guards

Considerations for Adding Snow Guards to Exposed Fastener Roofs by JD Metals

Evaluating Regional Snowfall Characteristics

When selecting retention systems, assess local climate conditions and ground snow load accumulation levels. Pad-style snow guards may suffice for areas with light snowfall (under 45 psf). However, regions with heavier snowfall require reinforced rail configurations for enhanced safety.

Addressing Curved or Non-Traditional Roof Designs

Standard snow guards with flat bases often prove inadequate for unconventional roof shapes, such as curved or radiused ones. Specialized retention solutions tailored to curved or architecturally complex surfaces ensure effective snow management without compromising structural integrity. When encountering these situations, it may be necessary to contact the panel manufacturer for recommendations and advice on snow retention solutions.

Material-Specific Installation Approaches

Different roofing materials demand customized strategies. Softer metals like copper and aluminum may require more frequent guard placement than steel roofs. Protective coatings can prevent chemical reactions in steel or aluminum retention systems between dissimilar metals.

Optimizing Installation Timing for Adhesive Systems

Schedule adhesive-based installations during late spring or early summer in North America. Temperatures above 50°F for approximately four weeks or 28 days will ensure proper adhesive curing, while cold conditions can significantly delay bonding processes. Lower temperatures will not hurt the adhesive during the curing process. Rain is not an issue typically after approximately 24 hours.

Enhancing Sealant Effectiveness

For screw-mounted polycarbonate guards, apply silicone sealant to the entire base to eliminate air gaps and improve waterproofing. While many metal guards include sealing gaskets, additional sealant can provide supplementary protection if desired.

Strategic Load Distribution Planning

Implement a comprehensive layout that evenly disperses snow loads across the entire roof. Follow our spacing guidelines to prevent localized and isolated stress points and ensure balanced weight distribution throughout the retention system. Small, incomplete layouts often result in system failures, which can damage the guards, roof panels, and potentially the structure underneath. Roof leaks can become especially problematic in screw-down installation failures.

Anchoring and Structural Compatibility

Mechanically mounted guards require secure attachment to robust substrates like wood purlins or metal supports. Contractors can utilize internal blocking techniques in areas without substantial structure. Avoid relying solely on roof panels for attachment; consider adhesive alternatives when reinforcing weak structures isn't feasible.

Aesthetic Integration

Choose components that harmonize with the roof's visual design, such as color-matched guards with painted or powder-coated finishes. Professional finishing services often provide more durable and visually cohesive results than DIY methods, but they come at a higher price.

Ice Management Strategies

Incorporate specialized components like our IceStoppers attachments for bar and rail systems in regions prone to icy conditions. Position these accessories strategically, particularly on roofs with elevated seams, to mitigate ice-related hazards.

Comprehensive System Evaluation

Verify compatibility between retention components and specific roof profiles before installation. Conduct trial fittings when necessary to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance.

Conclusion

SnoBlox-Snojax prioritizes reliable, long-term snow guard installations by emphasizing robust solutions over short-term fixes. Our company fosters customer confidence through tailored support and educational tools to clarify product options and installation processes. Clients receive hands-on assistance and access to practical resources like the Snow Guard Buyer's Guide and the "What Works and What Doesn't" page, which streamline decision-making by highlighting effective product choices. Customers can reach out via phone or email for personalized order support to consult with our knowledgeable team members who provide targeted recommendations. By merging expert guidance with clear, actionable materials and an unwavering focus on quality, SnoBlox-Snojax ensures that users are well-equipped to select, install, and maintain our snow guard systems with clarity and success.

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.