Snow Guards For Standing Seam Roof Panels by Great Northern Metal Company (GNMC)

See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Great Northern Metal Company Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

What are the Best Types of Snow Guards for Great Northern Metal Company's Standing Seam Metal Roofs?

In winter, standing seam metal roofs can experience the rapid release of accumulated snow, which poses a risk to people, pets, and property located below.

Roof avalanches underscore the importance of managing these hazards with specialized tools and professional guidance. We prioritize snow guards and retention systems for concealed fastener roof panels. Customers receive clear, practical advice to help them choose the most suitable snow guard options for their particular situations, with regularly updated resources like this blog making it easier to identify products that work with their roofs. Continuous educational initiatives also feature leading metal panel brands and the most compatible snow retention systems for those products. This strategy enables readers to make informed decisions, ultimately enhancing safety and reducing the risks associated with snow and ice.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels by GNMC

Established in 2019 by Jesse and Rainor Kjelsrud and their longtime friend Jason Kostelecky, Great Northern Metal Company set out to become a superior metal roofing and siding supplier in Montana's Gallatin Valley. The following year, Thain Cook joined as a co-owner, further reinforcing the company's commitment to delivering uncompromising quality in materials and service. The founders bring extensive experience in steel, aluminum, and construction, which shapes the company's practical and solution-oriented approach. Rather than following a generic model, GNMC focuses on addressing real-world challenges with tailored solutions. The company has earned a reputation for being approachable, knowledgeable, and committed to exceptional customer service. GNMC serves a diverse range of projects, from commercial buildings designed to withstand Montana's harsh winters to custom residential jobs that require both durability and aesthetic appeal. Clients work directly with professionals with hands-on experience in the field, ensuring that every project benefits from practical expertise. GNMC assists in enhancing a property's appearance, improving energy efficiency, or installing a resilient roofing system. The company's mission is to deliver high-performance products paired with straightforward and reliable service.

1-Inch Mechanical Lock Panel

The 1-inch Mechanical Lock panel features a sleek, low-profile appearance and the robust performance typical of standing seam roofing systems. Featuring a 1-inch mechanically seamed rib, it is available in panel widths of 13 or 17 inches. It's compatible with low-slope roofs with pitches of 3/12 or greater. This panel comes in 22, 24, and 26-gauge steel and can be fabricated from zinc or copper for specialized architectural projects. Approved for hot melt applications, it is specifically designed for roofing purposes, not for siding, interior, or soffit installations. The panel can be produced in continuous lengths over 100 feet, making it a dependable choice for large roof areas that require uninterrupted coverage. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for 1-Inch Mechanical Lock Great Northern Metal Company Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

Designed for versatility, this roofing panel is compatible with a variety of our snow retention systems, accommodating different requirements. Careful installation is essential when using adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guards to prevent water infiltration and freezing, which can cause the guards to become detached. There are larger options such as IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace, as well as more compact choices like SnoBlox Deuce and IceJax I for tighter spaces. For those who want to manage how snow and ice are released, SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M are effective solutions. The ribbed design of the panel also supports clamp-on attachments, making it compatible with products like SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar rails. These systems mount with stainless steel SnoBar clamps or aluminum RoofClamp fasteners. Testing a clamp sample in advance is advisable to confirm it fits the specific roof profile1.

1.5-Inch Mechanical Lock Panel

The 1.5-inch Mechanical Lock panel delivers a striking, well-defined appearance while providing structural durability for challenging roofing projects. This mechanically seamed system ensures watertight integrity, making it suitable for extensive residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Featuring a rib height of 1.5 inches, the panels are available in either 12 or 16-inch widths. Installers can fabricate them from 22, 24, or 26-gauge steel and .032 or .040 aluminum for use on roofs with slopes of 2/12 or greater. The panel meets several industry standards, including UL 90 for uplift resistance, UL 2218 Class 4 for hail impact, and UL Class A for fire resistance. It has passed water submersion testing by ASTM E 2140. It has also received approvals from the Florida and Texas Departments of Insurance and is compatible with hot melt applications. For roofs with slopes below 3/12, specialized installation guidance from SMI is necessary. Additionally, this panel is eligible for weathertight warranties, offering the reliability and adaptability required for projects prioritizing strength, longevity, and architectural uniformity. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for 1.5-Inch Mechanical Lock Great Northern Metal Company Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

Designed for versatility, this roofing panel accommodates a range of our snow retention systems, allowing it to meet diverse needs. When using adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guards, precise installation is crucial to prevent water intrusion and freezing, which can cause the guards to come loose. Larger snow guard options such as IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace are available. At the same time, SnoBlox Deuce and IceJax I are better suited for smaller or more confined roof spaces. For managing the controlled release of snow and ice, products like SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M offer reliable performance. The panel's ribbed design allows clamp-on installation, making it compatible with SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar rails. These can be securely attached using stainless steel SnoBar clamps or aluminum RoofClamp fasteners. Testing a clamp sample beforehand is recommended to confirm compatibility with the specific roof profile.

2-inch Mechanical Lock Panel

The 2-inch Mechanical Lock panel is a robust, commercial-grade standing seam system designed to deliver strength and accommodate long spans, making it suitable for demanding environments. Its mechanically seamed construction performs exceptionally well in low-slope roofing situations. It features a full 2-inch rib height and is available in 14, 16, or 18-inch widths. This panel is ideal for open framing and can handle wide purlin spacing. It comes in both 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel, as well as .040 aluminum, with the option for either a smooth or embossed finish to suit specific aesthetic and structural preferences. The panel is compatible with various substrates, including open framing, plywood, and B-Deck, with or without ISO insulation. If you seal it properly with mastic or butyl, you can install it on slopes as low as 0.5/12. The panel meets rigorous industry standards, including UL 90 for uplift resistance, ASTM E 1646 for water penetration, UL 2218 Class 4 for hail impact, and UL Class A for fire resistance. It is also rated for FM 4471 foot traffic, approved by the Texas Department of Insurance, and qualifies for weathertight warranties. These test results make it one of the most durable panel profiles available from GNMC for commercial and industrial roofing applications. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for 2-Inch Mechanical Lock Great Northern Metal Company Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

This roofing panel is designed for broad compatibility, accommodating various snow retention systems to suit different requirements. When installing adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guards, it is crucial to ensure proper placement to prevent water infiltration and freezing issues, which could cause the guards to become detached. There are larger snow guard options such as IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace, as well as more compact choices like SnoBlox Deuce and IceJax I for tighter roof spaces. Solutions like SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M are available for those looking to manage how snow and ice slide off roofs. The panel's ribbed structure supports clamp-on installation methods, making it compatible with products like SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar rails. These systems can use stainless steel SnoBar clamps or aluminum RoofClamp fasteners. Test a clamp sample beforehand to confirm that it fits the specific roof profile.

1-Inch FF Snaplock (Nailstrip) Panel

The 1-inch FF Snaplock panel offers a sleek standing seam appearance while facilitating straightforward nail strip installation. The manufacturer forms the panel in 12- or 16-inch widths with a 1-inch snaplock seam from at least 24-gauge steel. However, 22 and 26-gauge options are available in smooth or embossed finishes. Intended for installation over plywood substrates, this panel does not require clips, enabling fast placement and reliable performance on roof slopes of 3/12 or greater. Fabrication efficiency is enhanced using a 20-inch coil and a material yield ratio of 1.25, so careful planning helps reduce waste and manage expenses. While this panel does not qualify for weathertight warranties, it remains a favored solution for residential and light commercial projects where visual appeal and simple installation are key considerations. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for 1-Inch FF Snaplock (Nailstrip) Great Northern Metal Company Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

This roofing panel offers a high degree of flexibility, enabling it to work with various snow retention systems to suit different needs. Accurate application is crucial when using adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guards to avoid water infiltration, which can freeze and cause the guards to come loose. There are several options for snow guards, including larger models such as IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace, as well as more compact versions like SnoBlox Deuce and IceJax I, which are ideal for smaller or more confined roof sections. For those looking to regulate the release of snow and ice, the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M provide reliable solutions. Due to the triangular nature of the ribs on this panel, none of our clamp-on products are compatible with this seam.

Snap Batten Panel

The Snap Batten panel captures the timeless appeal of board-and-batten design while offering the durability and clean lines of modern metal roofing. Created to mimic the traditional batten appearance, it delivers a sleek, updated look and reliable steel performance. This panel is well-suited for residential, agricultural, and commercial applications where both style and strength are essential. Installation involves placing a separate batten cap over clips at the seams between panels. Once in place, the panel provides finished coverage widths of either 15 or 19 inches, depending on the chosen coil size. This panel is available in 24 or 26-gauge options and features a 1.5-inch rib height. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Snap Batten Great Northern Metal Company Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

Although this panel features a sleek, contemporary look, its wide box-style ribs significantly restrict the range of compatible snow retention systems. Clamp-on snow guards such as the SnoCleat RC and RCT and clamp-on snow rail systems are unsuitable for this panel. Consequently, glue-down polycarbonate pad-style snow guards are the only viable option. However, it is essential to note that individual polycarbonate glue-down snow guards should not be used on curved panels, as they require a flat surface to adhere securely.

TruSnap 1.75-inch Panel

The TruSnap 1.75-inch panel is a hybrid standing seam roofing system that combines mechanical lock and snaplock design elements. This integration results in a streamlined installation process, allowing for the natural movement caused by thermal expansion and contraction, making the panel a versatile option for residential and commercial settings. The panel features a 1.75-inch seam height and is available in 14- or 18-inch widths. It is available in 24 or 26-gauge steel and .040 aluminum and is suitable for roof slopes as low as 2/12. The panel can be installed over plywood, B-Deck, or B-Deck with ISO insulation using a clip system specified by engineering requirements. The TruSnap panel qualifies for weathertight warranties and meets strict UL 90 uplift resistance standards, Class 4 hail impact resistance, and a UL Class A fire rating. It also holds approvals from the Florida Building Code and the Texas Department of Insurance. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for TruSnap 1.75-inch Great Northern Metal Company Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

This roofing panel is compatible with a variety of our snow retention systems, providing the flexibility to address different requirements. When using adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guards, careful installation is crucial to prevent water from seeping in and freezing, which could cause the guards to come loose. There are 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 suitable for more confined areas. SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M are dependable solutions for those seeking to control how snow and ice slide off roofs. The panel's ribbed construction also allows for clamp-on installations, making it suitable for systems such as SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar rails. These can be attached securely using stainless steel SnoBar clamps or aluminum RoofClamp fasteners. Testing a clamp sample beforehand is advisable to ensure it is compatible with the specific roof profile.

GNMC Compatibility Chart for Snow Guards

Considerations for Adding Snow Guards to Standing Seam Roofs by GNMC

Verify local snow load requirements.

Investigate the typical snow loads in your area before choosing a snow retention system. Pad-style guards usually support ground snow loads up to 45 pounds per square foot. At the same time, rail systems can handle heavier snow conditions.

Confirm compatibility with your roof type.

Ensure that the snow retention products you select fit your roof's design, guarantee proper installation, and reduce potential fitment issues.

Obtain samples to check fitment.

Order product samples to verify that snow retention devices match your roof's profile. This extra step will help ensure a smooth installation process and minimize fitment challenges.

Match snow retention to roof aesthetics.

Select snow guards that complement your roof's aesthetic, such as powder-coated metal guards or inserts specifically designed to blend with your building's style. We stock a limited range of SnoBlox Deuce in various colors; however, most custom finishes require additional lead time.

Incorporate ice control accessories as necessary.

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

Schedule installation during warmer months.

Plan to install adhesive-based polycarbonate snow guards in late spring or early summer. Adhesives generally need about 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 use clamps or adhesives instead of screws or nails to protect your roof warranty and reduce the risk of leaks.

Coordinate snow guard placement for optimal load distribution.

Arrange 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 spot to prevent structural stress. See our Spacing Guideline pages for details.

Conclusion

SnoBlox-Snojax offers comprehensive support throughout the snow guard installation process by providing individualized guidance and various educational resources. Customers can contact our team weekly via phone or email to receive personalized advice tailored to their specific installation needs. Alongside direct assistance, users can access tools like the Snow Guard Buyer's Guide, which helps make the selection process easier. Our website also includes a dedicated page outlining best practices and common mistakes to avoid. Through clear instructions and reliable products, SnoBlox-Snojax empowers customers to approach installations with confidence. This attentive approach demonstrates our company's commitment to exceptional support, quality, and effective 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.