Snow Guards For Metal Central Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels

See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Metal Central Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

Which snow guards work best for Metal Central exposed fastener metal roof panels?

Metal roofs featuring exposed fasteners are frequently subject to sudden snow and ice avalanches throughout the winter season.

Due to the slick surface of metal roofing, snow and ice can rapidly slide off, posing risks to people, pets, and property below. To help prevent these dangers, our company offers a range of snow retention solutions specifically designed for various roofing styles and materials. Our selection includes snow guards and adaptable rail systems designed to suit a range of roof slopes, panel types, and weather conditions. We support our customers with helpful resources, including comprehensive blog posts, straightforward installation guides, and up-to-date lists of compatible roof manufacturers. In areas that experience frequent heavy snowfall, these snow retention products play a crucial role in mitigating the hazards caused by snow and ice accumulation, thereby ensuring greater safety for all individuals and property beneath the roof during winter.

Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels by Metal Central

Metal Central is recognized as a leading regional supplier of metal roofing, siding, and building systems, offering the reliability of a national brand paired with the personal touch of local service. Headquartered in Lowell, Arkansas, the company supports contractors across the Southeast and Midwest with an extensive range of metal products, such as panels, building kits, gutters, trim, and more. Metal Central distinguishes itself by merging the manufacturing capabilities of Central States Manufacturing with dedicated, hands-on customer care, making it a trusted partner for residential, commercial, and agricultural builds. With retail outlets in Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Pennsylvania, and Texas, contractors have easy access to a wide range of products, from individual roof panels to complete building packages. Their company delivers contractor-focused services, including job site delivery, material takeoffs, and in-house estimating. Whether tackling a small barn or a large warehouse, Metal Central delivers both the products and the know-how required for successful construction projects.

Panel-Loc Plus

Panel-Loc Plus is a widely used steel roofing panel offered by Metal Central Metal Building Components, suitable for residential, agricultural, and light commercial applications. Each panel provides 36 inches of coverage and features ¾-inch high ribs spaced 9 inches apart, adding both strength and aesthetic value. Its design incorporates a bell-top rib and a siphon groove to enhance durability and minimize the risk of leaks. In contrast, a lap groove ensures a smooth, seamless look by hiding overlaps. These panels are available in both 29-gauge and 26-gauge steel, with options for painted finishes or bare Galvalume and galvanized steel. The CentralGuard paint system helps protect against fading, rust, and dents. The panels feature a lifetime warranty for Ultra and Prime versions, or a 40-year warranty for Standard panels. Panel-Loc Plus is certified for impact, uplift, and fire resistance. It can be installed over open framing or solid surfaces, making it suitable for use as roofing, siding, liners, soffits, fencing, and skirting. With a wide selection of colors that may vary by region, this panel combines durability, weather resistance, and visual appeal, making it a flexible solution for a variety of building needs. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Metal Central Panel-Loc Plus Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

This panel supports a wide range of snow retention systems, providing versatility in both installation methods and material options. Polycarbonate products, such as the SnoBlox Deuce and SnowBreaker, are specifically designed to fit between the minor ribs of the panel. Installers can mount screw-attached metal alternatives, such as the SnoCleat PBR and any of the six SnowCatcher models, on the flat center section, which is considered the ideal location for installation. Other choices, including the Snojax I and Icejax I, are designed to span the minor ribs. Contractors can install the Icejax I using either adhesive or screws, while the Snojax I requires mechanical fastening. The panel is also compatible with Tall ColorBrackets and the appropriate hardware needed for aluminum ColorBar PBR or galvanized SnoBar PBR snow rail systems. This wide range of compatibility provides dependable snow management across various climates and conditions.

M-Loc

The M-Loc metal panel serves as a durable and adaptable option for both roofing and wall cladding needs. It presents a classic commercial look that suits a variety of architectural styles, offering a coverage width of 36 inches with low-profile ribs spaced 6 inches apart and a rib height of 13/16 inches. This panel is available in 24 and 26-gauge thicknesses, providing excellent strength and resistance to weather. Engineers designed it for roof slopes of 1:12 or steeper and built it to endure harsh weather conditions, ensuring lasting performance. They provide two quality tiers for the M-Loc panel to meet diverse project demands: the Prime version, which includes advanced CentralGuard coatings and a lifetime paint warranty, and the Thrifty version, which offers essential protection backed by a 20-year paint warranty. Both options come with a selection of more than 18 vibrant colors, enabling seamless aesthetic integration. While comparable in durability and weather resistance to the well-known R-Loc panel, the M-Loc distinguishes itself with a smaller rib profile, making it particularly suitable for projects that require finer trims and detailing. Overall, this panel combines robustness, visual appeal, and flexibility in customization, making it a dependable choice for both commercial and residential metal roofing and siding applications. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Metal Central M-Loc Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

The M-Loc panel features compact, flat sections measuring approximately 3 1/2 inches wide. Yet, it accommodates a range of snow retention options to meet various requirements. For effective snow and ice retention, polycarbonate snow guards such as the Ace, Icejax I, or Deuce are well-suited. On the other hand, if the goal is to promote controlled and gradual snow and ice shedding, the SnowBreaker or SnowBreaker 3M models may be more appropriate. Installers can use either screws or the Surebond SB-190 adhesive to install these snow guards. Additionally, the panel's compatibility with Tall ColorBrackets allows for the mechanical attachment of SnoBar and ColorBar systems, further enhancing its versatility.

R-Loc

The R-Loc® panel is a flexible metal panel system designed for commercial use, offering compatibility with both vertical and horizontal installations on roofs and walls. It features an exposed fastener design and is well-suited for maximizing the performance of steel frame structures. The panel provides a coverage width of 36 inches and includes ribs that are 1-1/4 inches deep, spaced 12 inches apart on center. As a purlin-bearing rib (PBR) panel, it is available in Prime 26-gauge and Thrift 24-gauge options, allowing for selection based on the project's specific strength and structural needs. They offer a wide range of colors and finishes for the R-Loc panel, making it adaptable to various design preferences. With its lap seams and practical design, this panel delivers both functionality and visual appeal for commercial and industrial metal building applications. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Metal Central R-Loc Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

R-Loc Panels offer significant flexibility for snow guard installation, accommodating a wide range of preferences and needs. They are compatible with numerous snow guard types, such as the screw-down SnoBar, ColorBar, SnoCleat PBR, and stainless steel SnowCatchers, which come in various styles, including Standard, Fleur-de-lis, Sun Burst, Maple Leaf, Mustang, and Kodiak. Most polycarbonate snow guards, except the Snojax I, can be attached using either adhesive or mechanical fasteners. The Snojax I, however, must be installed solely with mechanical fasteners. Installers must use the Surebond SB-190 adhesive when working with polycarbonate models, as the manufacturer has specifically formulated it for these materials. However, they should avoid using it with metal pad-style guards. For best results, smaller snow guards should be positioned between the minor ribs and centered on the panels. Some models, including the Snojax II and Icejax II, require off-center mounting by straddling either the left or right minor rib. It is essential to maintain consistent placement over the same rib throughout the installation. Snow guards or rail systems should not be attached directly to the high ribs; instead, they should be fastened through the panel's low flats into a solid substrate below to ensure the strongest and most stable installation.

Panel-Loc

The Panel-Loc metal roof panel is a low-profile solution suitable for both metal buildings and roofing needs. It utilizes an exposed fastener system, featuring ribs that are 5/8-inch high and spaced 9 inches apart, while providing a broad 36-inch coverage width. These dimensions make it particularly effective for projects requiring extensive coverage. Available in both 26-gauge and 29-gauge steel, the Panel-Loc accommodates various requirements for strength and durability. Reflecting their focus on dependable products for post-frame structures and metal buildings, this panel's low-rib design and exposed fasteners deliver a practical, sturdy roofing choice that blends functionality with the resilience of steel construction. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Metal Central Panel-Loc Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

The Panel-Loc Panel offers a versatile approach to snow retention, allowing users to install snow guards using either adhesive or screws. Polycarbonate options, such as the SnoBlox Deuce and SnowBreaker, can be attached with glue or screws and are designed to be positioned centrally between the panel's minor ribs. For those who prefer metal snow guards, fastened with screws in the flat section of the panel, the SnoCleat PBR and all six SnowCatcher designs are suitable alternatives. Contractors can install the Snojax I and Icejax I models by straddling a minor rib located between each 9-inch rib; however, while the Icejax I supports both adhesive and screw mounting, the Snojax I must be mechanically fastened and does not support adhesive installation. The Panel-Loc Panel is also compatible with Tall ColorBrackets and mechanical fasteners, enabling integration with aluminum ColorBar PBR and galvanized SnoBar PBR snow rail systems. Together, these options create a robust and adaptable system for managing and retaining snow on the roof.

7.2 Panel

The 7.2 Panel is a strong and visually appealing option for metal roofing. It features a deep trapezoidal rib design, with ribs measuring 1.5 inches in height and spaced 7.2 inches apart. The panel is available in coverage widths of either 28.8 or 36 inches, allowing it to suit a range of project needs. Made from durable 26 or 24-gauge steel, it features a Galvalume AZ50 minimum substrate, which offers excellent protection against corrosion. This panel system is versatile, suitable for both roofing and wall applications. Roofers can install this panel on roof slopes as low as 1:12. It can be mounted over open purlins or solid surfaces, making it a practical choice for residential, commercial, and agricultural buildings. Notably, the 7.2 Panel boasts impressive load and span capabilities, minimizing the need for additional structural support. Its exposed fastener design enhances both strength and longevity, making it ideal for use in roofing, wall, and fencing projects. The deep rib profile also provides a symmetrical and architectural look, making the panel a great choice for projects where both performance and appearance are important. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Metal Central 7.2 Panel Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

The 7.2 Panel works well with several snow management options designed to help control the buildup of snow and ice on the roof. One option is the SnoBlox Deuce, a clear polycarbonate pad-style guard that helps retain snow and ice on the roof surface. Another is the SnowBreaker, which breaks up snow and ice into smaller, safer pieces as it slides off the roof. Installers can mount these snow guards using either screws or adhesive. The SnowBreaker 3M version offers an alternative with 3M double-sided tape for easy attachment. Additionally, the 7.2 Panel is compatible with both the galvanized SnoBar and aluminum ColorBar snow rail systems. These systems utilize the robust 1.5-inch-wide aluminum Tall ColorBracket for secure installation, providing a reliable and comprehensive snow management solution for the roof.

BarnMaster

The BarnMaster roof panel reflects a strong emphasis on quality and long-lasting performance. Its classic wavy corrugated design gives it a unique rolling profile, adding rustic appeal that has made it a favored option for both interior wall use and roofing in residential and commercial spaces. The panel is 24 inches wide and can be ordered in lengths up to 40 feet, making it adaptable to a variety of project needs. Available in 29 or 31-gauge thicknesses, each BarnMaster panel features a galvanized coating. This finish not only enhances its appearance but also serves as a robust shield against rust and corrosion, thereby helping to extend its lifespan and reduce maintenance requirements. Combining rustic style with reliable strength, the BarnMaster panel remains a popular choice among consumers. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Metal Central BarnMaster Panel Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

The 7/8" Corrugated Panel features a distinct wavy design that differentiates it from standard exposed fastener roofing systems. This design allows for snow guard installation on the raised ridges of the panel, a departure from traditional installation methods. For those in need of snow retention, the panel is compatible with several options. One of the newer solutions is the SnoCleat 2.67, which can be mounted securely on the high ribs using 3-inch screws. Another option includes the SnoBar or ColorBar systems, both of which utilize the same ColorBracket 2.67 as the SnoCleat 2.67. Each ColorBracket 2.67 consists of six holes for attachment, although using four screws is generally adequate. However, the additional holes allow for the use of all six screws if desired, providing greater stability and reassurance, especially in regions with severe weather conditions.

Metal Central Compatibility Chart for Snow Guards

Considerations for Adding Snow Guards to Exposed Fastener Roofs by Metal Central

Attach Guards to Structural Supports

For optimal stability, secure snow guards directly to structural elements, such as rafters or metal purlins, rather than just the roofing panels. If your roof lacks sufficient support, reinforce it or use specialized adhesives to increase its strength.

Choose Guards for Unique Roof Shapes

Pad-style snow guards are generally ineffective on curved, arched, or unusually shaped roofs. In these cases, opt for products specifically engineered for non-standard roof profiles to achieve effective snow retention. Contact your roof panel manufacturer for recommendations tailored to your roof's specific configuration.

Check Placement Before Final Installation

Begin by temporarily positioning a snow guard or multiple guards on your roof to assess fit and compatibility. This trial run helps you identify and resolve any alignment or installation issues before completing the full installation.

Apply Sealant to Prevent Leaks

When installing polycarbonate snow guards with screws, use sealant on the entire base of each guard. This practice ensures that all gaps seal correctly, improves water resistance, and helps prevent leaks.

Install Adhesive Guards in Warm Weather

For adhesive-applied snow guards, plan for installation in late spring or early summer, when daytime temperatures remain above 50°F for several weeks. Warm weather is crucial for proper adhesive curing; cooler temperatures can slow the process. Surebond SB190 becomes water-resistant after about 24 hours, so rain after this time typically does not affect the bond.

Coordinate Finishes with Roof Appearance

Select snow guards with coatings or finishes that complement your roof’s color and style. Options such as powder coating or custom color inserts can create a cohesive, appealing look. Professional finishes are usually more durable, but DIY options may be more budget-friendly.

Adjust for Roofing Material

Adjust your snow guard spacing and arrangement according to the type of roofing material. Softer metals, such as copper or aluminum, may require closer spacing and additional rows compared to harder materials, like steel. Always ensure finishes and coatings are compatible to avoid adverse chemical reactions between different metals.

Conclusion

SnoBlox-Snojax offers reliable and durable snow guard solutions, prioritizing long-term performance over short-term fixes. Our company builds trust by providing personalized assistance and presenting product details in a clear and accessible way, including straightforward installation instructions. Customers benefit from helpful resources, such as our Snow Guard Buyer's Guide and our comprehensive manual on best installation practices, which make the selection process easier. With a knowledgeable team available to give tailored advice and help with orders via phone or email, SnoBlox-Snojax enables customers to confidently select, install, and maintain their snow guards through expert support, open communication, and top-quality products.

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.