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Snow Guards For Steelway Building Systems Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels
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Snow Guards For Steelway Building Systems Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels

Posted by Derek Gamble - SnoBlox-Snojax Specialist on Sep 4th 2024

See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Steelway Building Systems Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

Steelway Building Systems Logo - Image courtesy of https://steelway.com/

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

Winter poses significant challenges for owners of buildings with standing seam metal roofs, primarily due to the risk of sudden snow and ice slides that can threaten people, pets, and property below. The smooth surface of these roofs increases the likelihood of snow avalanches, necessitating snow retention systems such as snow guards and rails. These systems are compatible with various metal roof styles and are crucial for safety. When selecting appropriate snow guards, it's essential to consider factors like roof slope, panel design, and local weather patterns. To assist property owners in making informed decisions, we provide educational resources through blogs, informational pages, metal panel manufacturers' databases, and our compatible snow retention solutions. By emphasizing education and innovative approaches, we aim to mitigate snow and ice accumulation risks, creating safer environments in areas prone to heavy snowfall.

Steelway Building Systems Installed Standing Seam Roof On Large Building - Image courtesy of https://steelway.com/

Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels by Steelway Building Systems

Steelway Building Systems, founded by Glen White in 1976, has evolved from a small-scale provider of steel trusses for local farmers into a prominent Canadian manufacturer of steel building solutions. The company's growth trajectory saw it expand its product range to encompass commercial, industrial, and agricultural structures, including sophisticated projects like airplane hangars and grain storage facilities. Steelway's innovative spirit is exemplified by the introduction of their Spaceframe building systems, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional wood constructions. Following Glen White's passing in 2006, his sons Jason and Bryan assumed leadership, maintaining the company's growth momentum and core values. In 2016, the White family established Ardent Industries as an umbrella brand, with Steelway as a key component. Today, Steelway remains at the forefront of the steel building industry, leveraging advanced technology to deliver customized solutions for various sectors. Their unwavering commitment to quality, integrity, and enduring client relationships has cemented their status as a trusted name in construction.

RTL-24 Panels

Steelway Building Systems' RTL-24 standing seam roof is a high-performance solution for demanding environments. This innovative roofing system boasts superior weather resistance and wind uplift protection. It is ideal for industrial, commercial, and institutional buildings in areas prone to severe weather. The RTL-24 panels, available in 24-inch widths, are crafted from robust 24-gauge Galvalume steel with a 50,000 PSI yield strength, with 22-gauge options for enhanced durability. A key feature is the 3-inch seam height, which improves water drainage and overall strength. The system's floating clip design allows for thermal expansion and contraction, while pre-caulked clips enhance weather tightness. With impressive wind uplift ratings, concealed fasteners, and various color options, the RTL-24 combines functionality with aesthetic appeal, making it a top choice for demanding roofing applications. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Steelway Building Systems Standing Seam RTL-24 Metal Roofing Panels.

Steelway Building Systems RTL-24 Panel Rendering - Image courtesy of https://steelway.com/

This roofing system is compatible with various snow retention devices, particularly adhesive-mounted polycarbonate options. Proper adhesive application is crucial to avoid problems such as refreezing and separation, which can occur if moisture builds up between the snow guards and roof panels. Customers have a selection of products to choose from, including larger models like IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace, as well as more compact options like the Deuce and IceJax I. Use the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M to enhance safety during controlled snow and ice release. The panel's distinctive rib design supports clamp-on snow guards and rail systems like SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar. Typically, you should install standard stainless steel SnoBar clamps or aluminum RoofClamp alternatives, and it's always a good idea to test-fit a clamp sample before finalizing your order.

CapLoc Panels

Steelway Building Systems' CapLoc standing seam roof system is a versatile and durable option for various commercial, industrial, and institutional applications. The high-strength steel panels, available in 24-gauge or 22-gauge substrates with a 50,000 PSI yield strength, offer excellent resistance to kinking and denting. Customers can choose between pre-painted finishes or plain Galvalume to meet their desired aesthetic and functional requirements. The CapLoc system features panels with 16", 18", or 24" widths and a 2-5/16" seam height, suitable for low-slope installations. Its floating clips accommodate thermal expansion and contraction while enhancing weather tightness through a pre-caulked design. The system's efficient installation process often eliminates the need for mechanical seaming, potentially reducing labor costs and making it a cost-effective roofing solution. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Steelway Building Systems Standing Seam CapLoc Metal Roofing Panels.

Steelway Building Systems CapLoc Panel Rendering - Image courtesy of https://steelway.com/

The CapLoc panels provide diverse snow retention options due to their multiple widths and seam shapes, making them suitable for glue-down polycarbonate snow guards. However, extra adhesive may be needed to ensure proper sealing and prevent moisture infiltration, as failure to seal gaps could lead to system failure. Customers can choose from various snow guard options, including larger ones like IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace, or smaller footprint guards like Deuce and IceJax I. We recommend the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M for safer snow and ice shedding. The panel's T-shaped rib design accommodates clamp-on systems like SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar when used with appropriate RCT brackets and attachment accessories. While the panel has a mechanically fastened cap, it doesn't affect clamp-on snow retention attachment.

Steelway Building Systems Compatibility Chart for Snow Guards

Considerations for Adding Snow Guards to Standing Seam Roofs by Steelway Building Systems

Ensure Roof Integrity

When selecting mounting methods, prioritize those that maintain your roof's structural integrity, particularly for standing seam metal roofing. Opt for non-invasive, non-penetrating attachment systems, such as clamp-on or adhesive snow guards and snow rails, to preserve weatherproofing and uphold warranty conditions.

Optimize Installation Timing

For adhesive-based systems, plan your installation during warmer seasons, ideally late spring or early summer. Allow sufficient curing time based on ambient temperatures to achieve optimal bonding. For complete adhesion, many industry-standard adhesives, like Surebond SB-190, require several weeks at moderate temperatures.

Assess Local Snow Conditions

Research your area's ground now load to inform your system selection. Individual guards and rail systems are suitable in regions with ground snow loads up to 45 psf. For areas experiencing heavier snowfall (over 45 psf), exclusively use more robust rail systems for adequate protection.

Create an Effective Design Layout

Develop a comprehensive layout that safeguards the entire roof's surface, incorporating multiple rows if necessary. Distribute retention elements evenly to prevent localized stress points. Utilize available spacing guidelines and quote request tools to ensure proper placement.

Address Ice-Related Challenges

Explore specialized ice prevention accessories like IceStoppers for regions prone to ice formation. Properly selecting and positioning these components are crucial, especially on roofs with higher seams, to ensure optimal performance.

Harmonize with Roof Aesthetics

Select snow retention solutions that complement your roof's design. Explore customization options such as color-matched powder-coated components or tailored color strips for metal guards and rails. Consider local powder coating or painting services for quicker turnaround on custom work.

Verify System Compatibility

Before installation, test the system components to ensure they fit your specific roof type. This crucial step helps avoid costly errors and provides seamless integration. Our website offers many individual parts for various systems, which are available for separate purchase and testing.

Conclusion

SnoBlox-Snojax demonstrates a solid commitment to customer support in snow guard installations, offering a multifaceted approach that combines personalized assistance with comprehensive resources. The company provides direct access to our support team via email and phone, complemented by practical tools such as the Snow Guard Buyer's Guide and informative sections like "What Works and What Doesn't." This approach addresses immediate installation concerns and promotes a deeper understanding of our snow guard solutions. SnoBlox-Snojax ensures that customers are well-equipped for successful installations by emphasizing product quality and real-world performance. This holistic strategy, blending premium products with exceptional support, underscores the company's dedication to product excellence and customer satisfaction, ultimately empowering clients with the knowledge and tools necessary for optimal snow guard implementation.

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.

THE SNOBLOX-SNOJAX SNOW GUARDS DIFFERENCE

  • Fast Shipping Times Fast Shipping Times
    “In Stock” orders processed Mon–Fri same or next day, except for holidays. See Transit Times.
  •  Made in America Made in America
    All of our snow guard and snow retention products are made right here in America.
  • Lifetime Warranty Lifetime Warranty
    All of our snow guard and snow retention products come with a life time warranty. See Warranty Policy.
  • Manufacturer  Compatibility Manufacturer Compatibility
    Our database of compatible snow guards for various Roof Panel Manufacturers and their panels.