Snow Guards For Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels by Lifetime Metal Sales

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

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

Winter poses unique challenges for metal roofs with standing seams, particularly the risk of sudden snow and ice avalanches. These unexpected slides can threaten people, property, and pets below. Addressing this issue requires a nuanced approach and specialized knowledge. This article aims to shed light on snow retention systems compatible with Lifetime Metal Sales' concealed fastener roof panels, offering valuable insights for those seeking the optimal snow guard solution. The inherently smooth surface of metal roofing exacerbates the risk of abrupt snow slides, emphasizing the critical need for effective snow retention strategies. When considering snow guard options, it's imperative to account for various factors, including the roof's pitch, the specific panel design, and the typical weather patterns in the area. Our ongoing educational blog series delves into major metal panel manufacturers and explores our range of compatible snow retention products. We consistently update our snow guard fitment database to ensure readers can access the most up-to-date information. By taking this comprehensive approach, we strive to enhance the safety and performance of metal roofs during harsh winter conditions, thereby safeguarding both individuals and assets. By providing these insights, we aim to empower building owners and facility managers, enabling them to make well-informed decisions regarding snow retention systems. Ultimately, this contributes to creating safer, more resilient structures in regions prone to severe winter weather, ensuring peace of mind for all stakeholders involved.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels by Lifetime Metal Sales

Lifetime Metal Sales was established in 2006 as Luthy Metal Sales by brothers Reuben and Ezra Luthy, who aimed to produce high-quality metal roofing and siding. Their commitment to speed and quality led to significant growth, and by 2015, they had expanded into a 27,000 square foot facility with a team of eight employees. In 2016, the company was sold to Ken Nelson, a friend and seasoned steel supplier with 25 years of experience in the industry. Under his leadership, the staff at Lifetime Metal Sales continues to prioritize efficiency, quality, and precision, fostering a positive workplace culture grounded in the principles of integrity, service, and respect. Today, the company operates from a larger 37,000 square foot facility, catering to contractors and homeowners throughout Michigan. They are dedicated to sustainability, utilizing solar energy, recycling materials, and incorporating electric vehicles into their operations. Plans are underway for a second facility to open in Perry, Michigan, in 2024, furthering their commitment to environmental responsibility. Lifetime Metal Sales offers a diverse range of five shapes of U.L. Certified metal roofing and siding, with intentions to expand their product line. The company is also known for its innovative solutions, including specially designed trailers that facilitate the safe and efficient unloading of products, as well as an advanced anti-condensation felt for use in post-frame structures, developed in partnership with a local fabricator.

SL1.0 Metal Panels

Lifetime Metal Sales offers a modern, versatile roofing and siding solution with their SL1.0 metal panel. This product features a contemporary design with 1-1/2 inch ribs set 16 inches apart, creating an appealing look for homes and commercial structures. The panels are available in 26 gauge steel. One of the SL1.0's standout qualities is its adaptability. Installers can mount it on roof pitches as shallow as 1/4:12, suitable for use over open framing or solid substrates. This flexibility makes it an attractive option for many applications, including roofing, siding, and interior design elements. The product's durability is backed by a generous 40-year paint warranty, ensuring long-lasting performance and aesthetics. With its ease of installation and array of color choices, the SL1.0 panel appeals to professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts seeking a robust, visually pleasing metal panel solution that combines practicality with style. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Lifetime Metal Sales SL1.0 Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

This roofing system offers diverse snow retention solutions due to its design. It's well-suited for adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guards. Still, proper adhesive application is crucial to prevent issues like refreezing and detachment caused by moisture. Customers have a wide selection of snow guard options, ranging from larger models such as IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace to more compact choices like the Deuce and IceJax I. For improved safety during snow and ice shedding, we suggest the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M. The panel's rib configuration seems compatible with various clamp-on snow guards, including SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar rail systems, which mount using standard stainless steel SnoBar clamps or aluminum RoofClamp alternatives. Test-fitting a clamp sample before placing a final order for one of these systems is recommended.

Lifetime Metal Sales Compatibility Chart for Snow Guards

Considerations for Adding Snow Guards to Standing Seam Roofs by Lifetime Metal Sales

Strategize Installation Timing

For adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guards, target late spring or early summer for installation. The popular Surebond SB-190 adhesive needs approximately 28 days at 50°F (10°C) to cure fully, though it becomes rain-resistant within 24 hours.

Evaluate Snow Load Capacity

Research your region's "ground snow load" to inform your snow retention system choice. While most individual pad-style guards can handle up to 45 psf, areas with heavier snowfall require more robust snow rail systems. For loads exceeding 45 psf on roofs unsuitable for snow rails, seek advice from the panel manufacturer.

Design a Comprehensive Retention Layout

Create a thorough snow retention plan for your entire roof. To achieve a balanced load distribution, you may require multiple ascending rows. Arrange pad-style guards in a staggered pattern and align snow rails in straight rows. Avoid isolated installations above specific areas to prevent overloading. Utilize our free resources, spacing guides, and quote forms to fine-tune your design.

Ensure System Compatibility

Before installation, test sample snow guards, clamps, brackets, or IceStoppers on your specific roof type. This crucial step prevents costly errors and ensures seamless integration of all components.

Adopt Non-Invasive Installation Techniques

Refrain from directly attaching snow retention systems to standing seam metal roofs using penetrating hardware. This method can damage panels, compromise weather protection, and result in expensive repairs due to natural thermal expansion. Instead, opt for clamp-on or adhesive-mounted solutions to maintain compatibility and preserve your warranty.

Enhance Ice Management

Consider upgrading your SnoBar or ColorBar systems on standing seam roofs with IceStopper attachments, especially in high-traffic areas. You can add these during initial installation or retrofit later. Ensure proper spacing to prevent ice slippage, particularly with taller seams.

Blend Aesthetics with Functionality

Ensure your snow retention systems complement your roof's appearance. Explore customizable metal inserts for ColorBar and SnoCleat products to match or contrast colors. These can be crafted from leftover roofing material or purchased with the systems. Alternatively, consider powder coating for full coverage and precise color matching. Local options may offer quicker turnaround times when speed is essential.

Conclusion

SnoBlox-Snojax provides comprehensive assistance for snow guard installations, offering a variety of resources and personalized support to ensure clients achieve optimal results. Our team is readily available to address any inquiries or issues that may arise during the installation process, and we encourage customers to reach out via email or phone for assistance. We have developed numerous informational tools to enhance understanding and improve installation outcomes. Our Snow Guard Buyer's Guide offers crucial insights for informed decision-making, while our "What Works and What Doesn't" page provides practical advice and highlights potential challenges, helping customers navigate the installation process more effectively. We strongly recommend clients use these resources to understand our snow guard solutions thoroughly. By supplying high-quality products and empowering our customers with knowledge and expertise, we strive to maximize the effectiveness of our solutions in practical applications. Our commitment extends beyond product quality to include extensive customer support, ensuring clients have all the necessary tools and information for successful snow guard installations.

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.