Snow Guards For Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels by Smith-Built

See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Smith-Built Metals Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

What types of snow guards work best for Smith-Built's standing seam metal roofs?

During winter, buildings with standing seam metal roofs often encounter issues when built-up snow abruptly slides off. This sudden movement of snow can endanger people, pets, and property beneath the roof.

Roof avalanches underscore the importance of addressing these risks with specialized equipment and expert guidance. There is a strong focus on snow guards and retention systems designed for concealed fastener roof panels. Customers are provided with straightforward, actionable recommendations to help them select the right snow guard solutions for their unique needs, with regularly refreshed resources simplifying the process of finding compatible products for their roofs. Ongoing educational efforts also showcase top metal panel brands and the snow retention systems best suited to their products. This approach enables readers to make informed choices, enhancing safety and reducing the risks associated with snow and ice.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels by Smith-Built

Since 2003, Smith-Built Metals has established itself as a trusted manufacturer of metal roofing and building systems. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, with locations in Macon, Albany, and Columbia, the company serves residential, agricultural, and commercial markets. Initially focused on metal building production and installation, it has grown into one of the largest manufacturers in its area. Known for using high-quality materials and skilled workmanship, Smith-Built Metals offers products such as Master Rib panels, R panels, and standing seam panels, all of which come with a 40-year paint warranty. The company also provides pre-engineered metal buildings for various industries, including agriculture, retail, industrial, and institutional sectors. With hundreds of completed projects, Smith-Built Metals is a preferred supplier for contractors and property owners seeking durable, affordable roofing solutions. Their efficient "Order Today, Pickup Tomorrow" service ensures quick access to materials via pickup or delivery. Emphasizing hands-on customer service, the company invites clients to visit their facilities and consult with experienced staff on product selection and installation. With a strong focus on reliability, quality, and fast service, Smith-Built Metals continues to expand its presence across Georgia and neighboring regions.

Standing Seam Roof Panel System

Smith-Built Metals manufactures 16-inch Snaplock standing seam panels that combine durability, energy efficiency, and modern aesthetics. These panels utilize a clip-lock fastening system that conceals all fasteners, providing the roof with a sleek, contemporary appearance while maintaining its structural integrity. The snap-together design eliminates the need for mechanical seaming, making installation more efficient and reducing labor. Each panel, made from robust 26-gauge steel, measures 16 inches in width and features a rib height of 1 3/4 inches. The system is adaptable, allowing installation over either open framing or solid substrates and is suitable for roof slopes as low as 3:12 or even 1:12 in some instances. Incorporating COOL roof technology, these panels help reflect heat and lower attic temperatures, reducing cooling costs and boosting energy efficiency. Offered in 20 different colors and protected by a 40-year limited warranty, the panels provide long-term performance. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Smith-Built Metals Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

Installation options include mounting over 1x4 stripping boards, metal purlins, or hat channels, providing versatility for various building structures. The concealed two-piece clip system accommodates natural thermal movement, reducing roof stress and extending its service life. While standing seam panels may display slight waviness—"Oil Canning"—the clip-lock system helps minimize this effect and generally becomes less noticeable as the roof ages. With a balance of strength, energy-saving features, and a modern look, these Snaplock panels suit residential and commercial roofing needs. Customers can contact Smith-Built Metals at their offices in Macon, Albany, or Columbia for more details or installation assistance.

This roofing panel is compatible with a wide range of snow retention systems, providing flexibility for various requirements. When using adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guards, it is essential to apply them carefully to avoid detachment, which can occur if moisture seeps underneath and freezes. Our product lineup features larger snow guard options, such as IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace, as well as smaller models like SnoBlox Deuce and IceJax I, which are ideal for limited spaces. For those who prefer to manage how snow and ice slide off the roof rather than hold it in place, the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M provide effective solutions. The ribbed structure of the panel supports clamp-on installation, making it compatible with systems such as SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar rail systems. These systems can be mounted using stainless steel SnoBar clamps or aluminum RoofClamp fasteners. Before completing installation, it is advisable to test a clamp sample to ensure it fits the specific roof profile.

Smith-Built Compatibility Chart for Snow Guards

Considerations for Adding Snow Guards to Standing Seam Roofs by Smith-Built

Verify product compatibility with your roof.

Obtain samples to confirm that snow retention products fit your roof's profile, ensuring proper installation and minimizing potential fitment challenges.

Match snow retention to roof aesthetics.

Select snow guards that enhance your roof's appearance, such as powder-coated metal guards or inserts designed to harmonize with your building's style. We keep a limited inventory of SnoBlox Deuce in various colors; however, most custom finishes require additional lead time.

Incorporate ice control accessories as needed.

Install ice management accessories, such as aluminum IceStoppers, on rail or bar systems in regions prone to ice buildup. These components help prevent ice from sliding beneath the rails, particularly on roofs with taller seams.

Schedule installation for warmer months.

Plan to install adhesive-based polycarbonate snow guards in late spring or early summer. Adhesives typically require approximately 30 days of temperatures above 50°F to cure fully, although they become water-resistant within 24 hours.

Opt for non-penetrating attachment methods.

Select snow retention options that utilize clamps or adhesives instead of screws or nails to maintain your roof warranty and minimize the risk of leaks.

Coordinate snow guard placement to ensure optimal load distribution.

Place snow guards to distribute snow weight evenly across your roof. Use a staggered pattern for pad-style guards and straight lines for rail systems. Avoid concentrating guards in one area to prevent structural stress. Refer to our Spacing Guideline pages for more information.

Assess local snow loads.

Research typical snow loads in your area before selecting a snow retention system. Pad-style guards typically support ground snow loads of up to 45 pounds per square foot. In contrast, rail systems are designed to handle heavier snow conditions.

Conclusion

SnoBlox-Snojax provides thorough assistance to our customers during the snow guard installation process by offering personalized guidance and a range of educational materials. Our team is available on weekdays to answer installation questions via phone or email, ensuring that each customer receives customized advice tailored to their specific situation. In addition to this direct support, customers can use resources such as the Snow Guard Buyer's Guide, which helps simplify decision-making. The company also features a dedicated web page that details best practices and highlights common errors to avoid. SnoBlox-Snojax empowers customers to complete installations with confidence by providing clear instructions and dependable products. This attentive service reflects our company's dedication to outstanding support, quality, and reliable snow retention solutions.

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.