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Snow Guards For VicWest Building Products Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels
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Snow Guards For VicWest Building Products Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels

Posted by Derek Gamble - SnoBlox-Snojax Specialist on Nov 8th 2024

See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for VicWest Building Products Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

VicWest Logo - Image courtesy of https://www.vicwest.com/

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

The winter season brings distinct challenges for structures featuring standing seam metal roofs, particularly regarding the danger of unexpected snow and ice slides. These sudden avalanches present a significant risk to individuals, pets, and nearby buildings. The smooth surface of these roofs exacerbates the problem, increasing the probability of snow and ice slipping off unexpectedly. This situation highlights the importance of implementing effective snow retention strategies to ensure safety. Contractors can tailor snow guards and snow rail systems to suit various roof designs, enhancing overall safety. When installing these systems, it is essential to consider several factors, including the roof's incline, the configuration of the panels, and the typical weather conditions in the area. Property owners can benefit from our various educational materials, like our blog posts, to help them decide about appropriate snow retention solutions. Focusing on educational resources and innovative approaches significantly reduces the risks associated with snow and ice accumulation, creating safer environments in regions that experience heavy snowfall. This proactive approach directly addresses the winter-related issues faced by buildings with standing seam metal roofs, ultimately safeguarding people and property from potential harm. Property owners can ensure a safer winter season for everyone near their buildings by implementing suitable snow retention measures.

VicWest standing seam roof installed - Image courtesy of https://www.vicwest.com/

Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels by VicWest Building Products

VicWest Building Products has established itself as a prominent player in the metal building industry since its inception in 1930. Initially focused on providing metal roofing for agricultural structures, the company has grown significantly over the decades. VicWest is a leading manufacturer of metal roofing solutions for various projects, including residential, commercial, and agricultural applications. The company's product lineup has evolved to offer multiple metal roofing options catering to architectural styles and project requirements. VicWest's roofing systems withstand extreme weather conditions, including fire, hail, and hurricane-force winds, while maintaining their aesthetic appeal. This combination of durability and visual attractiveness has made VicWest a popular choice among homeowners, commercial builders, and agricultural customers. Environmental responsibility is a core value at VicWest. The company has implemented a comprehensive sustainability initiative called Planet Passionate, which aims to achieve net-positive operations by 2030. As part of this commitment, VicWest's manufacturing facilities currently operate at net-zero emissions. The company continues to improve its environmental performance through various measures, including solar power initiatives, carbon reduction efforts, and water conservation programs. With manufacturing facilities strategically located across Canada, from Prince Edward Island to Alberta, VicWest efficiently serves customers throughout North America. This extensive network allows the company to deliver high-quality roofing products that meet the diverse needs of its clientele, reinforcing VicWest's position as a trusted provider of durable and sustainable metal roofing solutions.

Marquis MQ450 Panel

The Marquis MQ450 is a metal roofing solution crafted by VicWest Building Products. This roofing system features a distinctive standing seam design, featuring a 1.75-inch batten-cap seam that contributes to its durability and visual appeal. With panels measuring 17.7 inches in width, the MQ450 offers generous coverage while maintaining a sleek, modern look suitable for various architectural styles. One of the standout features of the Marquis MQ450 is its exceptional water management capabilities. The system incorporates several design elements to achieve this, including a sealed sidelap, the batten cap mentioned earlier, and a thermally responsive clip mounting system. These components work harmoniously to channel water away from the roof, significantly reducing the risk of leaks and water-related damage. The MQ450 system employs a hidden fastener approach, which enhances its aesthetic appeal by creating a clean, uninterrupted surface and bolsters its weather resistance. The innovative clip mounting system allows the roof to adapt to temperature fluctuations, expanding and contracting as needed without compromising its structural integrity. This feature is particularly valuable in regions that experience significant temperature variations throughout the year. The Marquis MQ450 by VicWest Building Products represents a thoughtful blend of form and function in metal roofing. It offers a visually striking profile while delivering robust performance in terms of water management and long-term durability, making it a compelling choice for residential and commercial roofing projects. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for VicWest Building Products MQ450 Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

VicWest Marquis MQ450 panel rendering - Image courtesy of https://www.vicwest.com/

The selection of appropriate snow guards for this panel design presents significant difficulties, further amplified by the broader, square-shaped batten strip. While the panel's aesthetically pleasing appearance, its unique structure severely restricts the available snow guard options. The wide box-style batten strip renders clamp-on individual snow guards, such as the SnoCleat RC and RCT models, incompatible with this panel. Similarly, clamp-on snow rails are not suitable for use with this design. As a result, the only viable snow guard solution for this panel is the glue-down polycarbonate pad-style variety. It's worth noting that this panel incorporates minor striations for enhanced strength. Consequently, when installing snow guards on this panel, a more substantial adhesive coating will be necessary to ensure proper attachment and effectiveness.

Prestige 16 Panel

The Prestige 16 panel is a high-end roofing solution crafted by VicWest Building Products. This product features a Snap-Lock standing seam design, which provides a contemporary look and offers practical benefits for residential and agricultural structures. The panel spans 16 inches wide and stands 1.5 inches tall, varying lengths based on the manufacturing location. Available in both 24 and 26-gauge steel, the Prestige 16 panel is versatile enough for use on roofs and walls. It comes in various sophisticated colors, including standard and matte finish options, allowing customers to choose a look that complements their building's aesthetic. One of the key advantages of the Prestige 16 panel is its ease of installation, thanks to its Snap-Lock design. This feature and the standing seam profile ensure excellent water drainage while maintaining a modern appearance. As a metal roofing product, it offers superior durability and longevity compared to traditional roofing materials, resisting common issues like rot, mold, and insect damage. The Prestige 16 panel withstands various weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for long-term roofing needs. However, you should take proper safety measures during installation, especially on steep slopes or tall buildings. Overall, this product from VicWest Building Products strikes a balance between visual appeal and practical functionality, making it a popular choice for those seeking a premium metal roofing option. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for VicWest Building Products Prestige 16 Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

VicWest Prestige 16 panel rendering - Image courtesy of https://www.vicwest.com/

This roofing system is ideally suited for snow retention solutions, focusing on adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guards. Correct adhesive application is essential to prevent refreezing and moisture-related detachment. A diverse range of snow guard models is available to cater to various requirements, including larger options like IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace, as well as more compact alternatives such as the SnoBlox Deuce and IceJax I. SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M models are offered for additional protection during snow and ice-shedding events. The design of the panel's ribs accommodates clamp-on snow guards, including SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar rail systems, which can be attached using stainless steel SnoBar clamps or aluminum RoofClamp options. We recommend a test fit with a clamp sample before ordering these systems. It's important to note that when installing snow guards on aluminum or copper roof panels, additional rows of rails may be necessary compared to steel panels due to their lower rigidity, ensuring adequate strength and stability.

Prestige 20 Panel

VicWest Building Products offers a standing seam metal roofing solution called the Prestige 20 panel. This product features a 20-inch coverage width and a 1.5-inch tall standing seam, providing a classic look while maximizing coverage area. The panel employs a Snap-Lock rib system with a concealed fastening strip, simplifying installation compared to mechanically seamed alternatives and enhancing the roof's appearance by eliminating visible fasteners. Crafted from 24-gauge steel, the Prestige 20 panel balances durability with practicality. VicWest provides various finish options, including their Signature SMP (Silicone-Modified Polyester) coating and a Signature Matte SMP finish. This range of choices allows customization to suit different architectural styles and preferences. The Prestige 20 panel is versatile enough for residential and commercial applications, offering benefits beyond its sleek appearance. Its interlocking seam design protects against water infiltration while accommodating thermal expansion and contraction. This flexibility makes it suitable for new construction projects and roof replacements. The Prestige 20 panel's installation is straightforward, with its hidden fastener system improving the overall look and reducing potential weak points in the roof's weather barrier. The panel's design supports proper ventilation and can incorporate ridge vents for enhanced attic airflow. Combining aesthetic appeal, ease of installation, and long-term performance, the VicWest Prestige 20 panel is a popular choice in the standing seam metal roofing market. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for VicWest Building Products Prestige 20 Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

VicWest Prestige 20 panel rendering - Image courtesy of https://www.vicwest.com/

Snow retention solutions are particularly well-suited for this roofing system, with adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guards being a key feature. Proper adhesive application is vital to avoid complications like refreezing and moisture-induced separation. A comprehensive range of snow guard models addresses various needs, from larger options such as IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace to more compact choices like the SnoBlox Deuce and IceJax I. For those seeking enhanced protection during snow and ice-shedding events, SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M models are available. The panel's rib design allows for the use of clamp-on snow guards, including SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar rail systems, which can be secured using stainless steel SnoBar clamps or aluminum RoofClamp options. Conducting a test fit with a clamp sample before ordering these systems is advisable. When installing snow guards on aluminum or copper roof panels, it's worth noting that additional rows of rails may be required compared to steel panels due to their lower rigidity, ensuring sufficient strength and stability.

Regency Panel

VicWest Building Products offers the Regency panel as part of their roofing solutions, presenting a modern and sleek option for various building types. This Snap-Lock standing seam roofing panel features a 16-inch coverage width and a 1-inch high rib, creating a clean and contemporary appearance. Constructed from 28-gauge steel, the Regency panel ensures durability and strength while utilizing hidden fasteners to minimize metal penetration and incorporate a slotted fastening track for thermal expansion. The Regency panel's versatility shines through its suitability for re-roofing projects and new construction and its applicability to roof and wall installations. Its Snap-Lock design facilitates an easy installation process, making it a practical choice for contractors. The panel comes in various popular colors and signature matte finishes, allowing customization to suit different architectural styles and preferences. One of the key benefits of the Regency panel is its aesthetic appeal, achieved through the use of hidden fasteners that eliminate visible screws across the roof surface. This design feature, combined with the standing seam construction, not only enhances the overall appearance but also improves water shedding and weather protection. The combination of modern aesthetics, durability, and ease of installation makes the Regency panel a popular choice for residential and commercial roofing projects, offering a blend of style and functionality in a single product. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for VicWest Building Products Regency Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

VicWest Regency panel rendering - Image courtesy of https://www.vicwest.com/

This roofing system is highly compatible with adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guards. The correct application of adhesive is crucial to prevent issues such as refreezing and detachment due to moisture. We offer many snow guard models to meet diverse requirements, ranging from larger options like IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace to more compact alternatives like the SnoBlox Deuce and IceJax I. For those seeking additional protection during snow and ice-shedding events, SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M models are available. The design of the panel's ribs and the thing gauge of the metal does not allow for clamp-on snow guards, including SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar rail systems.

TSR Panel

VicWest Building Products offers the TSR panel as part of their concealed fastener roofing line. This versatile panel is engineered for extremely low-slope roofs, making it a popular choice for industrial and institutional buildings. The TSR panel features a 24-inch width and a 2.75-inch seam height, featuring a triple-seamed standing seam design. Typically manufactured using 24 gauge steel, this panel system employs a hidden fastening method that enhances the roof's aesthetic appeal and weather resistance. One of the TSR panel's key strengths is its adaptability to various roof designs, including single slope and more complex configurations. The panel's engineering allows it to perform exceptionally well on roofs with shallow pitches, addressing a specific need in the construction industry. VicWest provides the TSR panel in different finishes, including their Signature SMP coating and Galvalume Plus AZ50 finish. The triple-seamed design of the TSR panel contributes to its robust performance in challenging environments, offering superior weather protection and longevity. As a product of VicWest Building Products, the TSR panel benefits from the company's long-standing expertise in metal roofing and cladding systems. These panels are available through building supply centers across Canada and contractors throughout North America, making them accessible for various construction projects. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for VicWest Building Products TSR Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

VicWest TSR panel rendering - Image courtesy of https://www.vicwest.com/

Snow retention solutions are an excellent fit for this roofing system, with adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guards playing a crucial role. Correctly applying adhesive is essential to prevent refreezing and moisture-related detachment. A wide array of snow guard models is offered to meet various requirements, ranging from larger options like the Ace and Icejax II to more compact designs like the Deuce and Icejax I. Specialized models like the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M are also available for those needing extra protection during snow and ice-shedding events. The panel's rib design accommodates clamp-on snow guards, including various rail systems that can be secured using stainless steel or aluminum clamps. We recommend performing a test fit with a clamp sample before ordering these systems. When installing snow guards on aluminum or copper roof panels, it's important to note that additional rows of rails may be necessary compared to steel panels due to their reduced rigidity to ensure adequate strength and stability.

Tradition 100 Panel

The Tradition 100 panel is a roofing and cladding solution crafted by VicWest Building Products, a Canadian company with a long history in exterior construction materials. This panel boasts an I-style rib design complemented by a Snap-Cap and clip system, making it suitable for straight and curved roof applications. Install it over solid surfaces, accommodating roof slopes as low as 3 degrees to provide flexibility in architectural design. The Tradition 100 panel, crafted from steel and available in various gauge thicknesses, measures 15-3/4 inches wide and comes in 4 to 40-foot lengths. Its hidden fastener system enhances the roof's appearance while contributing to its weather resistance. This versatile product finds applications in commercial, institutional, and residential construction projects. The panel's design prioritizes both functionality and aesthetics. The Snap-Cap system enhances its weather-tight performance, and the concealed fasteners provide a sleek, uninterrupted look. This combination of practicality and visual appeal makes the Tradition 100 an attractive option for architects and builders alike. VicWest Building Products, the company behind this innovative panel, has been a fixture in the North American market since its founding in 1905. Based in Oakville, Ontario, VicWest has built a reputation for producing high-quality exterior building materials. The Tradition 100 panel is just one offering in their extensive range of roofing and cladding solutions designed to meet the diverse needs of the construction industry. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for VicWest Building Products Tradition 100 Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

VicWest Tradition 100 panel rendering - Image courtesy of https://www.vicwest.com/

This roofing panel features a batten cap or batten strip for its rib, which renders some snow retention systems incompatible. Specifically, clamp-on individual snow guards like the SnoCleat RC and SnoCleat RCT and clamp-on snow rail systems such as the SnoBar and ColorBar are unsuitable for use with this design. While companies often use batten strips for visual appeal, clamp-on solutions in this context are inadvisable. The clamps will only secure the batten strip and fail to apply torque to the main panels. This incorrect installation could lead to the strips detaching from the roof, resulting in significant and costly repairs. However, this panel can accommodate various glue-down polycarbonate snow guard models, including the SnoBlox Deuce, SnoBlox Ace, IceJax II, and Snojax II. For those looking for a safer and more controlled approach to managing snow and ice shedding, the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M systems are effective alternatives. They work by breaking ice and snow into smaller pieces, which slows their release from the roof. The recommended adhesive for this installation method is Surebond SB-190, recognized as the industry standard for glue-down snow retention systems.

Tradition 150 Panel

VicWest Building Products offers the Tradition 150 as part of its metal roofing and cladding lineup. This product belongs to their hidden fastener roof cladding range and boasts a distinctive T-style rib design. Standing at 1-1/2" in height with ribs at 15-3/4" on-center spacing, the Tradition 150 employs a mechanically seamed system. It is particularly suitable for low-slope roofing projects with pitches as minimal as 2 in 12. The panel's installation process involves clips, contributing to its concealed fastener system. Its versatility allows use in various building types, including commercial and institutional structures, fire stations, and even historic renovation projects. The Tradition 150's mechanically seamed design enhances its weather resistance, making it a robust choice for areas experiencing challenging climate conditions. As a steel roofing product, it offers impressive durability and longevity. Safety is crucial when working with these panels, necessitating proper fall protection systems to safeguard workers while maintaining the roof's integrity. VicWest, the company behind this product, has a rich history dating back to 1905. Headquartered in Oakville, Ontario, Canada, the firm operates multiple manufacturing facilities nationwide, serving various sectors, including residential, industrial, commercial, institutional, and agricultural markets. The Tradition 150 panel exemplifies VicWest's dedication to delivering high-quality construction products to the industry. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for VicWest Building Products Tradition 150 Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

VicWest Tradition 150 panel rendering - Image courtesy of https://www.vicwest.com/

This panel works best with adhesive-based polycarbonate snow guards. However, due to the variety of striation options available, it may be necessary to use more adhesive to ensure a proper seal and prevent moisture from getting underneath the snow guard. Insufficient sealing can lead to trapped snowmelt, which may refreeze and cause the guards to detach, resulting in system failure. For those interested in larger snow guards compatible with this panel, options include the IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace. Customers might consider the Deuce or IceJax I models for a more compact solution. We recommend that the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M be used to enhance safety during snow and ice shedding. The panel's T-shaped rib design allows for clamp-on snow retention systems like the SnoCleat RCT and SnoBar and ColorBar systems when paired with the RCB-3 bracket and aluminum RoofClamp RCT attachments. Systems utilizing the RoofClamp RC are incompatible. Although the panel has a mechanically fastened cap that covers the top seam, it does not obstruct any clamp-on snow retention attachments.

SR2 Insulated Panel

VicWest Building Products offers a unique roofing solution with their SR2 Insulated panel. This metal standing seam system combines structural support and thermal insulation. This panel features ribs on 40" spacing on-center. This versatile product meets various building needs, with panel lengths ranging from 8 to 50 feet, allowing for adaptability in different project sizes. The SR2 Insulated panel's main advantage lies in its excellent thermal performance, as the integrated insulation helps improve overall energy efficiency by minimizing heat transfer between indoor and outdoor environments. This innovative roofing system suits new construction and renovation projects, adapting well to diverse architectural styles. The panels are primarily used for roofing applications, creating a continuous, weather-resistant seal by interlocking along the roof surface. This design protects the building from the elements and contributes to its insulation capabilities. Safety is crucial when working with SR2 Insulated panels, especially during installation and for future maintenance access. Commercial and industrial settings often use the system, so implementing proper fall protection strategies for roof access is essential. Overall, the SR2 Insulated panel system by VicWest Building Products represents a contemporary approach to roofing that balances structural integrity, insulation properties, and design flexibility, making it a popular choice in the metal construction industry. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for VicWest Building Products SR2 Insulated Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.

VicWest SR2 insulated panel rendering - Image courtesy of https://www.vicwest.com/

This roofing system accommodates snow retention solutions, focusing on adhesive-mounted polycarbonate snow guards. The correct adhesive application is paramount to prevent complications like refreezing and moisture-related detachment. A comprehensive range of snow guard models suits various requirements, from larger options such as IceJax II, Snojax II, and SnoBlox Ace to more compact alternatives like the SnoBlox Deuce and IceJax I. SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M models are available for enhanced protection during snow and ice-shedding events. The panel's rib configuration allows for clamp-on snow guards, including SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar rail systems. These can be secured using stainless steel SnoBar clamps or aluminum RoofClamp options. We recommend a test fit with a clamp sample before ordering these systems.

VicWest Building Products Compatibility Chart for Snow Guards

  Marquis MQ450 Panel Prestige 16 Panel Prestige 20 Panel Regency Panel TSR Panel Tradition 100 Panel Tradition 150 Panel SR2 Insulated Panel
IceJax I Glue Down YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES
IceJax II Glue Down YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES
SnoBlox Deuce Glue Down YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES
SnoBlox Ace Glue Down YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES
Snojax II Glue Down YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES
SnowBreaker Glue Down YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES
SnowBreaker 3M YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES
SnoBar Standing Seam NO YES YES NO YES NO NO YES
ColorBar Standing Seam NO YES YES NO YES NO NO YES
SnoBar RCB-3 NO YES YES NO YES NO *YES YES
ColorBar RCB-3 NO YES YES NO YES NO *YES YES
SnoBar 2-Bar NO YES YES NO YES NO *YES YES
ColorBar 2-Bar NO YES YES NO YES NO *YES YES
SnoCleat RC NO YES YES NO YES NO NO YES
SnoCleat RCT NO YES YES NO YES NO YES YES

Considerations for Adding Snow Guards to Standing Seam Roofs by VicWest Building Products

Optimize Snow Retention System Installation Timing

For adhesive-based systems, schedule installation during warmer months, preferably late spring or early summer. Consider ambient temperatures when estimating adhesive curing times. High-quality adhesives typically require extended curing periods at moderate temperatures, such as 28 days at 50°F or above, for optimal bonding. Surebond SB190 is the current industry standard adhesive for snow guard installation.

Customize Snow Guards for Enhanced Roof Aesthetics

Elevate your roof's appearance by selecting snow retention systems that complement its design and color scheme. Explore options like color-matched guards or products with coordinating metal inserts. For a budget-friendly approach, consider local powder coating services or painting the guards.

Develop a Comprehensive Roof Protection Plan

Create an all-encompassing strategy to safeguard your entire roof surface. Install multiple rows of evenly distributed snow retention elements to prevent stress concentration in isolated areas. Utilize our available resources, such as our spacing guidelines and quote request tools, to determine the optimal placement for maximum protection.

Adapt Snow Management Strategies to Local Climate Conditions

Research your area's typical snow accumulation, or "ground snow load," before selecting a system. Basic rail configurations or pad-style guards may suffice in regions with moderate snowfall (under 45 psf ground load). Consider more robust rail systems for areas experiencing heavier snowfall to ensure adequate protection against snow slides.

Prioritize Roof Integrity with Appropriate Attachment Methods

When choosing attachment techniques, focus on options that preserve your roof's structural integrity, especially for standing seam metal roofing. Consider non-penetrating, surface-mounted solutions like clamp-on or adhesive-mounted snow guards and snow rails to maintain weatherproofing and uphold warranty conditions.

Conduct Pre-Installation Compatibility Testing

Perform tests before installation to ensure system components fit your roof type correctly. This crucial step helps avoid costly mistakes and provides seamless integration. Consider purchasing individual parts and accessories separately to facilitate thorough testing.

Address Ice-Related Challenges with Specialized Components

Incorporate dedicated elements like specialized snow rail accessories called IceStoppers into your retention setup in areas prone to icing. Carefully select and position these components, particularly for roofs with higher seams, to tackle ice-related issues effectively.

Conclusion

SnoBlox-Snojax approaches snow guard solutions comprehensively, prioritizing enduring effectiveness rather than temporary remedies. Our core philosophy revolves around exceptional customer support, ensuring clients fully grasp our product range. We extend beyond product sales by offering an extensive support framework, including individualized assistance and a wealth of online resources. This strategy equips our customers with the necessary knowledge and tools for successful installations. Our support team stands ready to address any inquiries or concerns, providing direct communication channels for clients seeking guidance. We have also developed practical resources to help customers maximize the benefits of our products, such as an in-depth Snow Guard Buyer's Guide and a detailed "What Works and What Doesn't" page to aid in decision-making. We actively encourage customers to contact our support team via phone or email for assistance with orders or installations. By emphasizing customer education and support, we strive to ensure that every SnoBlox-Snojax client has a positive experience and achieves optimal results with their snow guard installations. Our steadfast commitment to quality and customer satisfaction drives us to continually enhance our products and support services, solidifying our position as a trusted partner in snow retention solutions.