Snow Guards For Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels by Centria, A Nucor Company

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

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

Suppose your home, commercial, or industrial building features a standing seam metal roof with concealed fasteners. In that case, it's crucial to implement measures that shield your property, loved ones, and furry companions from the perils posed by sliding snow and ice accumulations. These roofing systems frequently require comprehensive snow retention solutions engineered to endure harsh winter conditions. This guide delves into various snow guard options compatible with Centria's standing seam metal roofs, empowering you to select the most suitable solution tailored to your roof system's unique requirements. As part of an ongoing series of informative blog posts, we'll spotlight prominent metal panel manufacturers and recommend compatible snow retention solutions. Ultimately, we aim to empower you to make well-informed decisions that safeguard your investment while ensuring the safety of all during the unforgiving winter months.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels by Centria

Centria traces its roots back to 1906, when it began as H.H. Robertson. This pioneering company introduced advanced coatings for metal wall and roof panels used in construction. Over the next several decades, spanning the 1920s through the 1990s, the firm became a prominent manufacturer of light-gauge steel trusses, corrugated metal panels, insulated foam composite wall systems, and concealed fastener structural standing seam roofing solutions. The SRS system was one of the first hidden fastener standing seam panels. As the new millennium dawned, Centria unveiled several innovative product lines that further cemented its reputation for cutting-edge offerings tailored to the building envelope market. These included the Concept Series concealed fastener system, Formawall Graphix Series panels, MetalWrap series, Kolorshift Coatings, and the Intercept+ technology powered by NexGen. In 2021, Nucor Corporation, the largest steelmaker in the United States, acquired Centria as part of its strategic expansion into adjacent businesses beyond core steel production. Before this acquisition, Centria had already established itself as a globally recognized provider of innovative and high-performance metal wall and roofing systems for commercial, institutional, and industrial structures worldwide. Now operating as a Nucor subsidiary, Centria offers a comprehensive portfolio of durable, energy-efficient, and aesthetically appealing building envelope solutions.

SRS 3 Metal Roof Panel

The SRS 3 is a high-performance, structural standing seam metal roof panel tailored for low-slope roofing applications in new construction and retrofit projects. The SRS 3 has an interlocking t-seam panel configuration, mechanically seamed joinery, and concealed clips. This system boasts exceptional structural integrity and resilience against wind loads. Its design accommodates thermal expansion and contraction, enabling seamless installation over extended panel lengths. This metal roofing solution prioritizes weather protection, serving as a weathertight system that effectively safeguards against water infiltration and air leakage. Aesthetically, the SRS 3 system exudes a sleek and contemporary appeal with its clean lines and minimal exposed fasteners, lending a unique architectural flair to any structure. Additionally, crimp-free curved panels allow for dramatic visual effects, elevating the overall design aesthetic. Available in coverage widths of 12, 16, and 18" with a seam height of 3 inches, the SRS 3 system offers versatility in dimensions. The panel gauge options include steel in 18, 20, 22, and 24 gauge and aluminum, catering to diverse project requirements. Renowned for its durability and low maintenance, the SRS 3 system boasts a long service life, with steel skins crafted from recycled materials and nearly 100% recyclable at the end of its lifecycle. As part of Centria's Standing Seam Roof System (SRS) product line, the SRS 3 upholds the brand's reputation for high-performance structural standing seam roofs, making it an ideal choice for energy-efficient roofing solutions across various industries, including healthcare facilities. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Centria SRS 3 Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

These roofing panels offer versatility for various snow guard systems. A generous amount of adhesive should be applied to accommodate the panel's unique ribs or striations to ensure proper sealing of glue-down polycarbonate snow guards and prevent moisture infiltration, as inadequate sealing can lead to trapped snowmelt, refreezing, and potential detachment, compromising the system's integrity. Customers seeking larger snow guard options can choose the IceJax II, Snojax II, or SnoBlox Ace systems. At the same time, those preferring a smaller footprint may opt for the Deuce or IceJax I models. The SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M systems promote safer snow and ice shedding. The T-shaped rib design allows compatibility with clamp-on systems like SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar when paired with the RCB-3 bracket and aluminum RoofClamp RCT attachments. The standard stainless steel SnoBar clamp and RoofClamp RC are incompatible with this rib shape. Although the panel features a mechanically fastened batten cap covering the seam's top, it does not interfere with the clamp-on attachment. Pad-style snow guards are generally unsuitable for curved roofs, requiring a flat surface, so snow rail systems are recommended. If a clamp-on snow rail is incompatible with the curved panel's seams, consulting the roofing manufacturer for recommended methods is advisable. Since aluminum panels are typically less sturdy than steel, installing clamp-on snow rails may require supplementary rows to accommodate the disparity in panel strength, ensuring system stability and longevity.

Versapanel Metal Roof Panel

The Versapanel metal roof panel system offers a compelling blend of aesthetic appeal, functional performance, and sustainable attributes. This insulated panel features steel skins separated by an insulating foam core, available in thicknesses ranging from 1.75 inches to 4 inches, achieving impressive R-values up to 33.5. The bold ribbed profile lends an attractive linear definition to large structures, while the 36-inch wide panels, with 1.75-inch tall ribs, can be obtained in lengths up to 52 feet. Energy efficiency is a hallmark of the Versapanel system. Its high thermal R-values reduce heating and cooling costs, and the thermal break between the face and liner mitigates thermal bridging and drift. The factory-applied panel joint sealant and field-applied sealant work to create an effective air and vapor barrier, further enhancing the system's energy-saving capabilities. Versatility is another key strength of the Versapanel panels. Their lightweight nature allows installation flexibility, with long lengths and various finish options. These panels can be installed in all weather conditions, making them suitable for multiple projects, including warehouses, industrial facilities, schools, and shopping centers. Sustainability is a core focus of the Versapanel system. They produce these steel skins from recycled materials, and the panels are nearly 100% recyclable at the end of their lifespan. This eco-friendly approach aligns with LEED and other green building standards, making the Versapanel an attractive choice for environmentally conscious projects. Overall, the Versapanel metal roof panel system combines the durability and weather resistance of metal roofing with the insulating properties of a composite panel, delivering a high-performance and energy-efficient roofing solution tailored for commercial and industrial applications. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Versapanel Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

The Versapanel, while visually appealing, presents particular challenges when selecting compatible snow guards. Its distinct wide-seam design restricts clamp-on individual snow guards like the SnoCleat RC and RCT models and clamp-on snow rails, which cannot function effectively with this panel type. The remaining viable option involves the use of glue-down polycarbonate pad-style snow guards. However, to ensure proper adhesion and prevent moisture infiltration, applying a generous amount of adhesive is crucial to accommodate the panel's unique ribbed surface. Inadequate sealing can lead to trapped snowmelt, subsequent refreezing, and potential detachment, compromising the overall integrity of the snow guard system.

SDP 175 Metal Roof Panel

The SDP175 is a versatile, cost-effective standing seam metal roof panel designed for architectural applications. This structural panel features a distinctive 1-3/4-inch high seam that snaps together seamlessly over concealed clips, eliminating the need for specialized mechanical seaming tools during installation. Available in coverage widths of 16 or 18 inches, the SDP175 offers three distinct pan profiles: Striated, Pencil Bead, and Planked, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences. The panel thickness options include 24 and 22 gauge, ensuring durability and strength. Standard panel lengths extend up to 40 feet, facilitating efficient installation and minimizing seams. In terms of material and coatings, the SDP175 comes in Galvalume® AZ50 aluminum-zinc alloy coating, Galvanized G90 zinc coating, and Galvalume® Plus, which features an aluminum-zinc alloy with a clear acrylic coating for enhanced protection. These coatings provide excellent resistance against corrosion and weathering, ensuring long-lasting performance. Designed for low-slope roofing applications, the SDP175 boasts a recommended minimum slope of 3:12. This panel can be installed over open purlins, plywood decks, or rigid foam insulation over steel decks, offering versatility in installation methods. With its snap-together seam design, architectural aesthetics, and outstanding resistance to wind uplift loads, the SDP175 metal roof panel by Centria presents an economical and practical solution for low-slope roofing projects, combining functionality and visual appeal. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for SDP175 Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

The versatile metal roofing panel accommodates a wide array of snow retention solutions. Its design allows for the secure attachment of polycarbonate snow guards using specialized adhesives, preventing moisture ingress, refreezing, and detachment problems, ensuring long-lasting performance. Customers can choose from a diverse range of snow guard options to meet their specific needs. Larger models, like the IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace, provide robust snow and ice retention capabilities. At the same time, smaller alternatives such as SnoBlox Deuce and IceJax I offer more compact options, enhancing safety and protecting property. For controlled snow and ice shedding, the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M products facilitate the breakdown of snowpack into smaller, safer pieces, reducing potential hazards. The panel's rib design ensures compatibility with various clamp-on snow guard systems, including SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar, allowing customized attachment solutions tailored to specific project requirements. The standard SnoBar clamps are durable stainless steel, featuring stainless steel cupped-tip set screws for secure fastening. At the same time, the RoofClamp attachments are constructed from lightweight yet strong aluminum, also incorporating the same stainless steel cupped-tip set screws for long-lasting performance. When utilizing glue-down polycarbonate snow guards with this panel, a thicker application of the specialized Surebond SB-190 adhesive may be necessary to compensate for the panel's striations, ensuring a secure and reliable bond, preventing potential issues, and ensuring optimal performance.

SDP 200 Metal Roof Panel

The SDP 200 is an asymmetrical standing seam metal panel for low-slope roofing applications. This mechanically seamed structural panel offers exceptional wind uplift resistance and an aesthetically appealing look. Available in 16-inch or 18-inch widths, the SDP200 features a seam height of 2 inches and comes in lengths up to 48 feet without requiring endlaps. The panel's versatility allows for installation directly over open purlins with blanket insulation, steel decks with rigid insulation, or plywood substrates. Depending on the application, the minimum slope requirement varies from 1/2:12 without endlaps to 1:12 with endlaps. Centria offers the SDP200 in Galvalume, Galvanized, and Galvalume Plus substrates, ensuring durability and corrosion resistance. One of the key features of the SDP200 is its two-piece floating clip system, which accommodates thermal movement for panel runs up to 225 feet. The panel's design incorporates a factory-applied sealant and a tight side seam, effectively preventing water infiltration. Additionally, the pan can be striated or enhanced with optional planks or pencil beads for added visual appeal. The SDP200 has been rigorously tested and meets industry standards, including UL 580 Class 90 listing and ASTM E1592 requirements for Coefficient of Expansion (COE). The "hook and rotate" installation method ensures a simple and efficient installation process, making the SDP200 an excellent choice for standing seam metal roof systems. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for SDP 200 Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

This metal roofing panel is compatible with a range of snow retention solutions. Its design allows for the secure attachment of polycarbonate snow guards using Surebond SB-190 adhesive, preventing moisture penetration, refreezing, and detachment issues, ensuring long-lasting performance. Customers can choose from snow guard options to suit their specific needs. Larger models, including the IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace, offer strong snow and ice retention capabilities. At the same time, smaller alternatives like the SnoBlox Deuce and IceJax I provide more compact options, enhancing safety and protecting property. For controlled snow and ice shedding, the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M products break shedding snow and ice into smaller, safer pieces, reducing potential hazards. The panel's rib design ensures compatibility with various clamp-on snow guard systems, including SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar, allowing customized attachment solutions tailored to specific project requirements. The standard SnoBar clamps, manufactured from durable stainless steel, feature stainless steel cupped-tip set screws for secure fastening. At the same time, the RoofClamp attachments are constructed from lightweight yet strong aluminum, also incorporating the same stainless steel cupped-tip set screws for long-lasting performance. When utilizing glue-down polycarbonate snow guards with this panel, a thicker application of the specialized Surebond SB-190 adhesive may be necessary to compensate for the panel's striations, ensuring a secure and reliable bond, preventing potential issues, and ensuring optimal performance.

Centria Snow Guard Compatibility Chart

Ensuring Optimal Snow Guard Performance on Centria Standing Seam Roofs

Know Your Local Ground Snowload

Checking how much snow your area typically receives, or your "Ground Snow Load," is vital when picking snow retention systems for metal roofs. Most systems can handle ground snow loads of up to 45 pounds per square foot (psf) without problem. But if your area gets extreme amounts of snow, you'll need beefier snow rail solutions. If your roof panels are incompatible with snow rails and your ground snow load is beyond 45 psf, contact the panel manufacturer for their recommendation. Do a quick search for "[your town] ground snow load" to get the local data for your project.

Time Installing Those Adhesive-Mounted Guards Right

While you can install clamp-on snow guards and rails anytime, adhesive-mounted polycarbonate guards need careful timing. The industry standard adhesive, Surebond SB-190, needs around 28 days at 50°F to cure fully. Plan those adhesive installs for the best results in the U.S. and Canada in late spring or early summer. After 24 hours, rain won't mess it up. However, avoid using SB-190 on copper roofs, which could cause premature corrosion from chemical reactions.

Add IceStoppers for Extra Protection

For standing seam roofs with SnoBar or ColorBar rail systems, adding IceStopper attachments is a smart move—especially over walkways, entrances, and parking areas. You can install them initially or add them later. Proper spacing is crucial for managing snow and ice buildup, even more so for seams over 1" tall since ice can slide under the bar without IceStoppers.

Test for the Perfect Fit

Before locking in a snow retention system, test whether the snow guards, clamps, brackets, or IceStoppers fit your project. We let you order individual samples and kits, like 20" and 27" bar samples, with no minimum order. This step ensures everything fits like a glove and avoids costly mistakes.

Don't Screw Into Standing Seam Roofs

Screwing down snow guards or rails on standing seam metal roofs is a recipe for disaster because of how the roof expands and contracts. This incorrect installation method can damage panels, causing leaks, expensive repairs, and voided warranties. Use clamp-on or adhesive-mounted systems for standing seams to keep things secure and compatible.

Layout for Success

An effective snow retention system spans the entire roof, usually with multiple ascending rows to spread out and distribute the weight evenly. Install individual guards in a staggered pattern and mount rails in straight lines. Avoid isolated installations that can overload the system until it fails. If using SnowBreaker, follow the manufacturer's specific isolated placement guidelines. We offer free guidance, resources, spacing charts, and custom quote request forms so you can nail the layout.

Color Coordinate for Style

For a cohesive, stylish look, you can match the color of our metal snow retention systems to your roof's color. Some systems have interchangeable slide-in metal strips you can match to your roof's color. Some customers use contrasting colors to add visual pop to their roofs. Buy the strips with the system or make them on-site with leftover roofing material. We also offer custom powder coating to blend the system seamlessly with your roof's color for an additional fee.

Conclusion

SnoBlox-Snojax is committed to delivering an exceptional experience as you navigate the selection and installation of your snow guards. Our knowledgeable support team can assist you with any questions or concerns. Please email us at support@snojax.com or call our dedicated support line at 1-800-766-5291. To empower our valued customers, we have curated a wealth of valuable resources, including a comprehensive Snow Guard Buyer's Guide that offers in-depth insights to aid you in making informed decisions, as well as an insightful "What Works and Doesn't" page that provides perspectives on best practices and potential pitfalls, ensuring a smooth and successful installation process. We encourage you to leverage these resources to gain confidence in your snow guard selection and installation endeavors.

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.