Snow Guards For Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels by AB Martin

See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for AB Martin Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

Protecting your property with  snow guards on a standing seam metal roof requires planning. The distinct profiles of metal roof panels often demand specific snow guard solutions to manage snow and ice buildup effectively. This article delves into the array of snow guard options available for AB Martin's concealed fastener standing seam metal roofs, equipping you with the knowledge to make a well-informed decision. This blog series aims to continue highlighting prominent metal panel manufacturers while suggesting compatible snow guard solutions, empowering customers to navigate this process confidently. Our objective is to provide expert guidance, enabling you to select the appropriate snow guards for your metal roofing system. By doing so, we strive to safeguard your investment and ensure your property's and its occupants' safety.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels by AB Martin

AB Martin, a prominent manufacturer and supplier of metal roofing, siding, and construction materials, has a rich history dating back to its establishment by Amos B. Martin in 1947. The company has undergone significant growth over the years, culminating in the construction of a headquarters on a 6-acre site in Ephrata, Pennsylvania. This move showcases AB Martin's commitment to expansion and innovation within the industry. The company's expertise is crafting durable and long-lasting metal roofing and siding panels, including their renowned ABSeam Panel, commercial panels, and the exceptionally resilient ABM Panel. AB Martin sets itself apart by offering custom-length and width metal panels tailored to meet the specific requirements of its clients. These panels are produced promptly and delivered directly to job sites, ensuring efficient and timely installations. In addition to their metal roofing products, the company provides a wide range of accessories essential for metal roofing installations, such as screws, flashing, and coil stock. AB Martin's product portfolio extends beyond metal roofing, encompassing a diverse selection of building materials, including lumber, insulation, doors, windows, and more. This comprehensive offering caters to the needs of builders across Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia, solidifying AB Martin's position as a trusted supplier in the industry.

ABSeam Metal Roof Panel

The ABSeam Metal Panel is an exceptional choice for homeowners and builders seeking a visually appealing, durable standing seam metal roof. This panel is crafted from high-quality steel and is available in 24 gauge with a smooth Fluropon finish or 26 gauge with a textured WeatherXL finish. Both finishes have a 40-year limited warranty, ensuring long-lasting protection and beauty. The 24 gauge option features a 1-1/2" high rib with a standard width of 19-1/2", but can be customized down to a width of 11-1/2", while the 26 gauge option has the same 1-1/2" high seams but comes in a non-customizable 16-1/2" width. The concealed clip system of the ABSeam Panel eliminates the need for visible screws or punctures, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the roof and contributing to its longevity by minimizing potential entry points for water and air. Standing seam metal roofs have a proven track record of lasting over a century with proper maintenance, making them a wise investment for any property owner. Customization is possible with the ABSeam Panel, offering a wide range of color options for smooth and textured finishes. The textured panels have the added benefit of reducing glare by redirecting sunlight, making them a practical choice for areas with intense sunlight while providing better traction for installers during installation. The versatility of the ABSeam Panel makes it suitable for various roofing projects, including residential, light agricultural, and commercial applications, providing long-lasting protection and aesthetic appeal for new structures or renovations. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for AB Martin ABSeam Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

Thanks to its multiple panel widths and seam shapes, its versatile snow retention solutions are tailored to meet various needs, making it an excellent choice for glue-down polycarbonate snow guards. Proper adhesive application is crucial to prevent moisture from seeping into gaps underneath the guards, which could lead to refreezing and even detachment issues. Customers can choose multiple options, including larger choices like the IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace, or smaller alternatives such as the SnoBlox Deuce and IceJax I, to effectively hold the snow and ice on their roof. The SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M products facilitate safer snow and ice shedding by breaking the snowpack into smaller, more manageable chunks. The panel's rib shape ensures compatibility with clamp-on snow guards, including SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar systems. These systems offer flexibility in attachment options, with standard stainless steel SnoBar Clamps or aluminum RoofClamp attachment options with cupped tip set screws. When using glue-down polycarbonate snow guards with this panel, a thicker application of Surebond SB-190 adhesive may be necessary to compensate for the panel's optional striations and texture, ensuring a secure and reliable installation.

AB Martin Snow Guards Compatibility Chart

Snow Guard Selection for AB Martin Standing Seam Roofing

Timing is Crucial for Glue-Down Snow Guards Systems

Clamp-on guards and rail systems can be installed year-round, but timing is vital for glue-down polycarbonate snow guards. The industry-standard adhesive, Surebond SB-190, needs about 28 days at 50°F to cure fully. Plan your glue-down installation for optimal results in the USA and Canada during late spring or early summer. After 24 hours, rain shouldn't cause any issues for the adhesive. Using Surebond SB-190 on copper roofs is a no-go due to potential chemical reactions that could speed up panel corrosion.

What's a Ground Snow Load?

Knowing the ground snow load is crucial when choosing snow retention systems for metal roofs. Most guards and rail systems can easily handle up to 45psf. Still, you'll need snow rails with enhanced holding capacity for geographic regions with higher ground snow loads. Individual pad-style snow guards just won't cut it. If your roof panels aren't compatible with snow rails and your ground snow load is higher than 45psf, the panel’s manufacturer should be able to provide their recommended snow guard solution when contacted. To find your ground snow load, contact your local building inspector or google your town name followed by the words "ground snow load".

Nail the Layout for Peak Performance

Regardless of your snow retention system, getting the layout right is critical for optimal performance. We've provided free advice, resources, tools like  spacing charts, custom quote request forms for bar systems, and individual pad-style snow guards. Your snow retention system should span the entire roof length, typically with multiple rows ascending the slope to distribute the weight evenly. Individual guards are typically installed in staggered patterns, while snow rail systems interconnect and mount in straight lines. Avoid isolated snow guards above specific areas - that's a surefire way to invite system failure from overloading. If using SnowBreaker, the rules for isolated placement are somewhat different, and we offer guidelines for these installations.

Unleash the Power of IceStoppers

When using SnoBar or ColorBar Snow Rail Systems on standing seam roofs, we recommend incorporating IceStopper attachments, especially in areas above high-traffic zones like pedestrian walkways and parking areas. IceStoppers can be installed during the initial setup or added later as a retrofit option. Proper IceStopper spacing is vital to effectively managing snow and ice accumulation. The use of IceStoppers becomes more critical as seam heights increase beyond 1". Dangerous ice can slide under the bar on taller seams, unprotected by  IceStoppers.

Color-Match for a Seamless Aesthetic

Our metal snow retention solutions come with color-matching options to blend in with your roof's appearance. The SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, and ColorBar Snow rail systems are compatible with slide-in metal strips that match the system's face to your roof's color. You can buy the strips with the system or make them from leftover roofing materials on the job site. Custom powder coating services are also available, though this may require extra lead times and additional charges.

Test Before You Invest

Before placing your main order, test fit any snow guards, clamps, brackets, or IceStoppers to ensure compatibility with your project. Our website allows you to order samples without minimums, and we also offer 27" and 20" bar sample kits. Investing in samples can prevent costly mistakes during installation, so consider it a wise precaution.

Steer Clear of Screw-Down Snow Guards on Standing Seam Roofs

Screw-down snow guards and rails? Not on your standing seam metal roof! This installation method is a recipe for disaster, putting your panels at risk due to the roof's floating nature and thermal expansion. Leaks, costly repairs, and voided warranties are potential drawbacks to installing screw-down snow guards! Instead, opt for clamp-style or adhesive-mounted snow retention systems that are standing seam-friendly.

Conclusion

Choosing the proper snow guards for your project may seem like a lot of work initially. Hopefully, this  blog has given you the tools to decide confidently. As this series progresses, you can look forward to more helpful information in upcoming articles, including specifics on additional roof panel brands. When you're ready to buy snow guards, working with a reputable company that's easy to reach is crucial. They should be able to answer your questions and provide the support you need. SnoBlox-Snojax consistently delivers on this and often goes above and beyond. If you have any questions or want to place an order, don't hesitate to contact us at support@snojax.com or 1-800-766-5291. And be sure to check out our Snow Guard Buyer's Guide and What Works and What Doesn't Page on our website for more insights to help you make the best choice for your project. With this information, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect snow guards for your needs.