Snow Guards For Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels by Exceptional Metals

See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals Standing Seam Metal Panels.

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

Preventing dangerous snow and ice slides on standing seam metal roofs demands specialized approaches. This in-depth guide delves into various snow retention systems and guards, particularly those compatible with Exceptional Metal's concealed fastener roofing products. Our objectives are twofold: to equip you with essential information for choosing the most suitable snow guard solution for your specific needs and to contribute to an innovative compatibility database for snow guards. As part of our ongoing educational blog series, we spotlight leading metal panel manufacturers and our corresponding snow retention systems. By providing crucial insights, we empower you to make well-informed decisions that safeguard your investment and ensure the well-being of building occupants, pedestrians, property, and pets during harsh winter conditions. Implementing a robust snow retention strategy is vital in mitigating the risks of sliding snow and ice. With appropriate measures in place, you can substantially improve the safety of your property and its vicinity, fostering a secure environment even in the most severe winter weather.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels by Exceptional Metals

In 2003, Duro-Last Roofing expanded its operations by launching Exceptional Metals, a subsidiary dedicated to manufacturing premium metal components for roofing systems. This strategic move was part of Duro-Last's vertical integration plan, aimed at offering a more comprehensive range of roofing solutions. The new venture experienced steady growth over the years, reaching a significant milestone in 2013 with the opening of an expansive 89,000-square-foot production facility in Carrollton, Texas. This state-of-the-art plant served both Duro-Last and Exceptional Metals, enhancing their manufacturing capabilities. The company celebrated its 15th anniversary in 2018, marking a decade and a half of success in the competitive roofing industry. Headquartered in Saginaw, Michigan, Exceptional Metals operates under the Duro-Last umbrella and has diversified its product range to include various metal roofing accessories such as edge materials, gutter systems, and wall panels. By 2024, the company had solidified its position as a key player in the metal roofing accessories market, boasting a strong presence on professional networking platforms and maintaining a reputation for delivering high-quality products designed for superior roofing solutions. Exceptional Metals now operates multiple manufacturing facilities across the United States, including locations in Oregon, Mississippi, Texas, and Massachusetts, in addition to its Michigan base. This widespread presence allows the company to efficiently meet diverse customer needs and maintain its commitment to quality and innovation in the roofing industry.

EM BattenLok® HS Standing Seam

Exceptional Metals offers a versatile, robust roofing solution with their EM-BattenLok HS system. This innovative standing seam panel design serves dual purposes, functioning effectively for roof and wall applications. The system features 12 and 16-inch panel widths with prominent 2-inch vertical seams, contributing to its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Engineered for versatility, the EM-BattenLok HS can be installed on slopes as low as 1/2:12 for roofing projects, demonstrating its adaptability to various architectural designs. The standard configuration utilizes 24 gauge steel, with an option for heavier 22 gauge material available for more demanding applications. Customers can choose between the corrosion-resistant Galvalume Plus finish or the highly durable PVDF (Kynar 500) paint system with various color options to suit diverse design preferences. The system's flexibility extends to its compatibility with multiple substrates, including plywood, metal decking, and rigid insulation, making it suitable for various construction projects. Performance and safety are paramount in the EM-BattenLok HS design. It has earned a UL 580 Class 90 rating for superior wind uplift resistance and a UL 790 Class A fire rating for roof coverings, underscoring its reliability in challenging environmental conditions. The system's approval under the Florida Building Code further attests to its durability and compliance with stringent standards. A key feature of the EM-BattenLok HS is its concealed fastener design, which enhances weather protection and allows for thermal expansion and contraction, which is crucial for maintaining the roof's integrity over time. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals EM BattenLok HS Standing Seam Metal Panels.

This panel's design accommodates various snow retention solutions, particularly adhesive-mounted polycarbonate options. However, panel striations may require additional glue to prevent moisture-related issues. Consider IceJax II, Snojax II, or SnoBlox Ace for substantial snow management. Alternatively, Deuce and IceJax I offer compact solutions. SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M promote safer snow and ice release. The panel's ribs also support clamp-on systems like SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar, using standard stainless steel SnoBar Clamps or aluminum RoofClamp attachments.

EM Double-Lok® Standing Seam

Exceptional Metals offers a robust standing seam metal roofing solution called the EM-Double-Lok system. This product features a concealed clip design with mechanically seamed, 2-inch high vertical ribs on 18" or 24" spacing that forms 180-degree seams. The system demonstrates remarkable versatility on roof pitches as shallow as 1/4:12. Crafted from either 24 or 22-gauge steel; the panels come in various finishes, including the corrosion-resistant Galvalume Plus and the highly durable PVDF (Kynar 500) coating. While the standard panel width is 16 inches, custom widths are available upon request, with panels extending up to an impressive 55 feet. The EM-Double-Lok system boasts remarkable performance credentials, having achieved a UL 580 Class 90 rating for wind uplift resistance and a UL 2218 Class 4 rating for impact resistance. It also complies with Florida Building Code standards, underscoring its suitability for harsh weather conditions. Installation involves on-site seaming using specialized electric machinery, and the system is compatible with a range of substrates, including plywood, OSB, and metal decking. Exceptional Metals stands behind their product with comprehensive warranty options, including weather-tightness guarantees and finish warranties extending up to 35 years, depending on the chosen coating. This versatile roofing solution caters to various applications, from residential properties to commercial and industrial facilities. Its adaptability makes it an excellent choice for new construction projects and renovations. It offers a blend of durability, weather protection, and aesthetic appeal to meet diverse architectural and performance requirements. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals EM Double-Lok Standing Seam Metal Panels.

This panel's configuration is ideal for snow retention methods, particularly adhesive-mounted polycarbonate guards. Optional striations may require extra glue to avoid moisture-related complications. IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace suit heavy-duty needs. At the same time, Deuce and IceJax I serve as compact alternatives. SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M enhance safe snow and ice shedding. The panel's ribbed design also accommodates various clamp-on options, including SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar, which can be secured using standard SnoBar or RoofClamp fasteners.

EM LokSeam® Standing Seam

Exceptional Metals offers a versatile metal roofing solution known as EM LokSeam, designed to meet the needs of various building types, from residential to commercial and industrial structures. This standing seam system employs a mechanical seaming process, enhancing its durability and weather resistance. Customers can choose from steel panels in 24, 26, or 22-gauge thickness. The panels come in three width options—12", 16", and"18"—and can be custom-cut to lengths up to 50 feet, providing flexibility for diverse architectural requirements. The EM LokSeam system boasts impressive performance credentials, having undergone rigorous testing for wind uplift resistance, fire safety, and impact protection. Its weather-tight design features a concealed clip fastening method, which secures the panels and maintains a sleek, uninterrupted appearance. The system's versatility is evident in its ability to be installed on roof pitches as shallow as 3:12, making it suitable for various building designs. Durability is a vital feature of the EM LokSeam, with panels finished in Kynar 500®/Hylar 5000® coating to ensure long-lasting color retention and protection against the elements. This quality is backed by a paint finish warranty of up to 35 years, with an additional weather tightness warranty available upon request. To support proper installation and optimal performance, Exceptional Metals provides a comprehensive range of accessories and offers technical assistance to design and construction professionals. This combination of product quality, performance, and support makes the EM LokSeam an attractive option for those seeking a reliable, long-lasting roofing solution. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals EM LokSeam Standing Seam Metal Panels.

The panel's design supports diverse snow retention systems, focusing on glue-down polycarbonate guards. Note that optional striations might need additional adhesive to prevent moisture issues. Consider the larger IceJax II, Snojax II, or SnoBlox Ace for robust snow management. At the same time, Deuce and IceJax I offer more compact solutions. SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M control snow and ice shedding. The panel's ribbed structure also allows for clamp-on systems such as SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar, which can be attached using either standard stainless steel SnoBar clamps or aluminum RoofClamp options.

EM SuperLok® Vertical Leg Standing Seam

Exceptional Metals offers a high-performance roofing solution called EM-SuperLok, a standing seam metal system designed for steep-slope applications. This innovative product features concealed fasteners and a mechanically seamed design, available in 12" or 16" panel widths with a 2" seam height. Crafted from Galvalume® substrate in 26, 24, and 22 gauge options, EM-SuperLok boasts a durable Kynar 500® or Hylar 5000® PVDF coating, ensuring long-lasting protection and aesthetic appeal. Numerous certifications demonstrate the system's robust performance, including UL 580 Class 90 for wind uplift resistance, UL 2218 Class 4 for impact resistance, and UL 790 Class A for fire rating. Additionally, it has gained approval from the Florida Building Code and the Texas Department of Insurance, further attesting to its reliability and quality. This attention to detail ensures optimal performance and longevity of the roofing system. Exceptional Metals stands behind its product with a 20-year finish warranty. When installed by an Exceptional Certified Installer, customers can benefit from up to a 20-year weather-tightness warranty. This roofing solution is versatile enough to suit various structures, from commercial and industrial buildings to residential properties. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals EM SuperLok Vertical Leg Standing Seam Metal Panels.

This panel's design accommodates a variety of snow retention methods, particularly adhesive-mounted polycarbonate guards. However, extra glue may be necessary to prevent moisture-related problems if opting for striations. IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace work as larger-scale snow management systems. At the same time, Deuce and IceJax I serve as smaller alternatives. We advise SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M for safer snow and ice shedding. The panel's rib configuration also supports clamp-on systems like SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar, which use standard SnoBar clamps or RoofClamp options.

EM Ultra-Dek® Standing Seam

Exceptional Metals offers a high-performance standing seam metal roofing system called EM-Ultra-Dek. This product features a concealed fastener design with a 3-inch high rib, suitable for roof pitches as shallow as ¼:12. Available in 18 or 24-inch widths and lengths up to 50 feet, the panels come in 24 and 22-gauge options, utilizing Galvalume® as the base material. The system boasts impressive certifications, including a UL 580 Class 90 wind uplift rating and a UL 790 Class A fire resistance classification. It has also gained approval from the Florida Building Code. Customers can choose from an array of Kynar 500® color finishes or a Galvalume® Plus coating. The installation allows for either factory or on-site panel formation. It employs a two-piece floating clip system to accommodate thermal expansion. A solid substrate or strategically placed bearing plates are necessary for proper installation. Exceptional Metals stands behind their product with a 20-year finish warranty and offers additional weather-tightness guarantee options. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals EM Ultra-Dek Standing Seam Metal Panels.

The panel's structure is compatible with multiple snow retention options, especially adhesive-mounted polycarbonate guards. Be aware that striations may require additional glue to avoid moisture-related issues. Consider IceJax II, Snojax II, or SnoBlox Ace for extensive snow management. At the same time, Deuce and IceJax I offer more compact solutions. SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M encourage safe snow and ice release. The panel's ribbed design also accommodates various clamp-on systems, including SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar, which can be secured using either standard SnoBar clamps or RoofClamp alternatives.

EM Craftsman™ Series High Batten Standing Seam

Exceptional Metals offers a versatile, durable roofing solution with their Craftsman Series metal panels. These concealed fastener panels, suitable for roofing and wall applications, boast a sleek design featuring a 2-inch high rib and 12 or 16.5-inch coverage widths. Crafted from robust 22, 24, or 26-gauge steel, the panels are available in various finishes, including the popular Kynar 500 and Hylar 5000 options and SMP and Galvalume Plus. The Craftsman Series stands out for its impressive performance ratings, achieving a UL 580 Class 90 wind uplift rating and UL 2218 Class 4 impact resistance certification. These panels have also secured approvals from the Florida Building Code and Miami-Dade County, attesting to their reliability in challenging weather conditions. Installation flexibility is a crucial feature, with options for mounting over solid substrates or open framing. The minimum roof slope requirements vary depending on the installation method, and panels come in lengths up to 40' to suit diverse project needs. Exceptional Metals backs the quality of their product with comprehensive warranty options. Depending on the chosen finish, customers can benefit from a 20-year warranty for Kynar 500 and Hylar 5000 finishes or an extended 40-year limited paint warranty for the SMP finish. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals EM Craftsman High Batten Standing Seam Metal Panels.

We recommend steering clear of clamp-on systems for standing seam panels with separate batten strips. These attachments only grip the strip itself, failing to create the torque that direct metal-to-metal contact provides. This insufficient torque can lead to strip detachment, potentially causing extensive damage and expensive repairs. As an alternative, consider using adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guards. Options like IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace are available for larger installations. At the same time, Deuce and IceJax I serve as smaller alternatives. Products such as SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M facilitate safe snow and ice release.

EM Craftsman™ Series Small Batten Standing Seam

Exceptional Metals offers the Craftsman Small Batten, a versatile metal roofing component for residential and light commercial projects. This standing seam profile features a compact batten, contributing to a sleek, contemporary aesthetic while ensuring robust performance. Available in 12" and 16 1/2" coverage widths with 1" high ribs, the product is suitable for roofs with a minimum 3:12 pitch. The Craftsman Small Batten employs a hidden fastening mechanism, enhancing its visual appeal and weather resistance. Customers can choose from various metal gauges, with 24 being the standard and 26 or 22 available as alternatives. The product has a smooth finish by default, but an embossed option is also available. Exceptional Metals provides multiple coating choices for diverse needs and preferences, including GALVALUME® Plus and the Signature® series (200, 300, and 300 Metallic). The Craftsman Small Batten's quality and reliability are underscored by its UL 580 approval, Florida Approval, and Dade County Ratings, making it a trustworthy choice for regions with stringent building codes. This metal roofing solution combines durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance requirements, appealing to property owners and contractors seeking a long-lasting, attractive roofing option. By offering the Craftsman Small Batten, Exceptional Metals demonstrates its commitment to providing high-quality, versatile metal roofing products that meet the demands of modern construction and design preferences. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals EM Craftsman Small Batten Standing Seam Metal Panels.

In the case of standing seam panels featuring separate batten strips, we caution against clamp-on systems. These devices only attach to the strip, failing to achieve the required torque that direct metal-to-metal contact would provide. This insufficient grip can result in strip disengagement, potentially leading to significant structural damage and costly repairs. We recommend adhesive-based polycarbonate snow guards as a safer alternative. Larger guard options include IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace. At the same time, Deuce and IceJax I offer more compact solutions. Products such as SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M promote controlled snow and ice shedding.

EM Slimline® Metal Roof Panel

Exceptional Metals offers a sophisticated architectural solution with their Slimline metal panel. This versatile system, designed for exterior and interior use, combines modern aesthetics with robust performance. The Slimline panels, measuring 16 inches in width and 1 inch in depth, are crafted from 29 or 26-gauge steel, providing durability and flexibility in design. Architects and builders can choose from a range of high-quality finishes, including Kynar 500 or Hylar 5000 PVDF coatings, ensuring long-lasting color retention and weather resistance. The system's concealed fastener design allows for seamless vertical or horizontal installation, contributing to its clean, contemporary appearance. Exceptional Metals has rigorously tested the Slimline panels to meet industry standards, demonstrating impressive wind load resistance up to 80 psf and achieving a Class A fire rating according to ASTM E84. The panels also excel in weather tightness, meeting ASTM E331 and E283 standards, making them suitable for diverse environmental conditions. With its aesthetic appeal and performance capabilities, the EM-Slimline panel system presents an attractive option for designers seeking to create visually striking and functionally superior building envelopes. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals EM Slimline Standing Seam Metal Panels.

The panel's configuration is compatible with diverse snow retention solutions, and it is especially well-suited for adhesive-attached polycarbonate guards. The guards may require additional glue to mitigate moisture issues when considering striations. We suggest Larger options like IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace for comprehensive snow control. At the same time, Deuce and IceJax I offer more compact alternatives. SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M promote safer snow and ice release. The panel's rib structure also supports clamp-mounted systems such as SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar, which attach using standard SnoBar clamps or RoofClamp variants.

EM CFR Insulated Roof Panel

Exceptional Metals offers a high-performance roofing solution with their EM-CFR Insulated Standing Seam Panel. This factory-insulated system meets the demands of diverse building types, including industrial facilities, cold storage units, and commercial structures. The panel's design incorporates a concealed fastener mechanism and a pre-applied vapor barrier, enhancing its functionality and durability. Customers can select from a range of panel dimensions, with widths including 30, 36, and 42 inches and insulation thicknesses from 2 to 6 inches, allowing customization to suit specific project requirements. The EM-CFR panel's core consists of polyisocyanurate foam sandwiched between Galvalume steel sheets of varying gauges for the exterior and interior faces. The exterior finish options include premium PVDF and Silicone Modified Polyester coatings, ensuring long-lasting protection and aesthetic appeal. These panels have undergone rigorous air and water resistance and structural integrity testing and achieved a Class A fire rating according to UL 790 standards. Additionally, numerous configurations have received FM Global approvals, further attesting to the product's quality and reliability. This versatile roofing system is well-suited for new construction projects and retrofitting existing structures. Its applications extend to various building types, such as food processing facilities, manufacturing plants, and distribution hubs. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals EM CFR Insulated Standing Seam Metal Panels.

This panel's structure is adaptable to various snow retention styles. With its striations, extra adhesive may be necessary to prevent moisture-related complications. IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace are ideal choices for extensive snow management. At the same time, Deuce and IceJax I serve as more compact options. SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M enhance safety during snow and ice shedding. The panel's rib design also accommodates clamp-on systems like SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, and ColorBar, which attach using standard SnoBar clamps or RoofClamp alternatives. Due to this panel's available widths, it is incompatible with galvanized SnoBar systems, which are only compatible with standing seam panels up to 24" in width. Aluminum ColorBar is the only bar system compatible with panels with these dimensions.

Exceptional Metals Compatibility Chart for Snow Guards

Considerations for Adding Snow Guards to Standing Seam Roofs by Exceptional Metals

Timing for Optimal Glue-Down Installation

Schedule the adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guard installation during late spring or early summer. The industry-standard Surebond SB-190 adhesive needs about 28 days at 50°F (10°C) to fully cure, with rain resistance developing after roughly 24 hours.

Evaluating Snow Load

Determine your region's "Ground Snow Load" for a suitable snow retention system. Most individual pad-style guards can effectively manage snow loads up to 45 psf. Areas with heavier snowfall require more robust rail systems. For roofs incompatible with snow rails and ground snow loads exceeding 45 psf, seek advice from the panel manufacturer.

Crafting a Detailed Layout

Design a comprehensive snow retention strategy spanning the entire roof length, typically using multiple ascending rows for balanced weight distribution. Position individual pad-style snow guards in a staggered arrangement and snow rails in straight lines. To prevent system overload, avoid isolated installations above doorways, walkways, or chimneys. Utilize our free resources, spacing guides, and custom quote forms to optimize your design.

Compatibility Testing

Verifying the compatibility of your chosen snow retention components is vital before full-scale implementation. Obtain individual samples or small kits to test-fit snow guards, clamps, brackets, or IceStoppers on your roof type. This proactive step can prevent costly mistakes and ensure an ideal fit for your project.

Best Practices for Installation

Avoid directly attaching snow guards or rails to standing seam metal roofs using screws. This incorrect method can lead to panel damage, leaks, and expensive repairs due to the natural expansion and contraction of the panels. Instead, use clamp-on or adhesive-mounted systems to ensure compatibility and maintain warranty coverage.

Enhancing Color Coordination

Harmonize snow retention system colors to improve your roof's aesthetic appeal. Our ColorBar and SnoCleat products feature optional, customizable metal inserts for seamless integration or striking contrasts. These can be purchased from us or fabricated from excess roofing material on-site. For complete color matching, consider our optional powder coating services at an extra cost. Alternatively, customers seeking more color control or faster turnaround can opt for DIY painting or local powder coating.

Managing Ice Formation

Accessorize SnoBar or ColorBar rail systems on standing seam roofs with IceStopper attachments, especially above high-traffic pedestrian areas. Installers can add these during initial installation or retrofit them later. Proper spacing is crucial, particularly for seams taller than 1 inch, to prevent ice from slipping beneath the bar.

Conclusion

SnoBlox-Snojax provides outstanding customer support for snow guard installations. Our team of specialists is available to answer any questions you may have throughout your project. For personalized assistance, don't hesitate to contact us at support@snojax.com or 1-800-766-5291. We also offer a variety of informational resources to ensure successful installations. Our comprehensive Snow Guard Buyer's Guide provides valuable insights to help you make informed decisions. At the same time, our "What Works and Doesn't" page offers practical advice and highlights common mistakes to avoid. We encourage you to fully utilize these resources to understand our snow guard solutions. At SnoBlox-Snojax, we provide premium products and the essential expertise needed to maximize their effectiveness in real-world applications.

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.