Snow Guards For Western States Metal Roofing Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels

See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Western States Metal Roofing Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

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

Metal roofs, especially exposed fastener designs, present significant winter challenges, primarily due to the risk of sudden snow and ice slides that can endanger people, pets, and property below. The smooth surface of these roofs increases the likelihood of snow avalanches, making effective snow guards and snow retention systems essential for safety. Snow guards are specialized solutions designed to address this issue, compatible with various metal roof designs. When choosing a snow retention system, consider roof slope, panel design, and local weather patterns. We provide educational resources, including our blogs, informational pages, and databases of compatible products for various metal panel manufacturers, to help building owners, homeowners, and facility managers make informed decisions. By focusing on education and innovative solutions, we aim to mitigate risks associated with snow and ice slides, ultimately creating safer environments in regions prone to heavy snowfall and allowing customers to enjoy the benefits of metal roofing without compromising safety during harsh winter conditions.

Exposed Fastener Metal Roof Panels by Western States Metal Roofing

Western States Metal Roofing began in 1996 as a distributor of metal decking products and has since grown into a leading manufacturer of metal roofing and siding systems. This family-owned business operates several facilities across the United States, producing various metal roofing products, including their notable Western Lock® standing seam panels. The company drives its expansion by committing to quality and innovation, serving diverse customers, from industry professionals to homeowners. Although they do not provide installation services, Western States Metal Roofing focuses on manufacturing superior materials and offering extensive customer support. Their direct-to-consumer sales approach enables customers to save on metal roofing projects, and they provide educational resources to help professionals and DIY enthusiasts effectively use their products.

7/8" Corrugated

The 7/8" Corrugated Panels present a compelling blend of aesthetics and affordability for residential and commercial structures. These panels feature deep, wave-like grooves that create a striking visual impact and shadow effect. Known for their ease of installation, these versatile panels are suitable for a wide range of applications, including both roofing and siding projects. They feature a rib height of 7/8" and a rib distance of 2.67", with overall widths and coverage areas varying slightly depending on the paint finish chosen. Available in lengths from 1' to 52' and in gauges ranging from 20 to 26, these panels offer flexibility for diverse project needs. Install them over open purlins or solid substrates. They require a minimum 3/12 roof slope and exposed fasteners for roofing applications. The 7/8" Corrugated Panels are adaptable to various architectural styles, including farmhouse and industrial designs. They are available in over 100 colors, including unique textured paint prints. Notably, these panels are cost-effective—costing about half as much as standing seam metal roofing—and durable, with a lifespan that significantly outlasts traditional asphalt shingle roofs. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Western States Metal Roofing 7/8 Inch Corrugated Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

The 7/8" Corrugated Panels stand out with their distinctive corrugated pattern, setting them apart from traditional exposed fastener roofing systems. This unique design allows for the installation of snow guards on the elevated ribs, a feature not commonly available in other roofing styles. The 7/8" Corrugated Panel is compatible with several options for snow retention solutions. The newly launched SnoCleat 2.67 snow guards can be securely attached to the panel's raised ribs using 3-inch screws. Alternatively, customers can choose the SnoBar or ColorBar snow retention systems, which also use the ColorBracket 2.67, like the SnoCleat 2.67. Each ColorBracket 2.67 includes six attachment points to enhance mounting strength. While only four screws per bracket are required, customers have the option to use all six screws, especially in areas with severe weather conditions, ensuring a sturdy and reliable installation.

PBR Panels

PBR Panels are an economical and durable option for metal roofing, featuring a purlin bearing R panel design with a larger overlap section for improved strength and weather resistance. These panels have a rib distance of 12 inches and a rib height of 1.25 inches. They are available in lengths from 1 to 52 feet, providing a coverage width of 36 inches for roofing and wall applications. They are offered in 22, 24, and 26 gauge steel with a minimum AZ50 substrate and use exposed fasteners. PBR Panels are suitable for residential, commercial, agricultural, and interior use. They can mount over open purlins or solid substrates, with a recommended minimum roof slope of 1/12. The benefits of these panels include low maintenance, durability, excellent weather protection, and a wide selection of over 100 colors, with specialty paint prints that add depth and texture. Western States Metal Roofing provides factory direct pricing and an easy-to-use color selection website. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Western States Metal Roofing PBR Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

The PBR panel system provides a versatile and comprehensive solution for snow guard installation in the roofing industry, accommodating various models and designs. This system offers flexibility to meet diverse needs, from screw-down varieties like SnoBar and ColorBar to specialized options such as SnoCleat PBR and various stainless steel SnowCatcher designs. Most polycarbonate snow guards can be mounted using screws or adhesives, with Surebond SB-190 recommended for its excellent bonding properties. However, it's not suitable for metal pad-style guards. Proper placement is crucial for optimal performance, with specific guidelines for different models. Installers should avoid attaching snow guards directly to the panel's high ribs for maximum stability and strength. Instead, they should secure the snow guards through the panel's low flats into a solid underlying structure, which is the most effective method. This approach guarantees a robust and reliable snow retention system capable of withstanding harsh winter conditions.

Western Rib® (7.2 Panel)

The Western Rib® (7.2 Panel) is a robust metal panel for roofing and siding applications. It is ideal for projects without wood roof decks because it can span longer distances between supports. This panel provides a visually appealing symmetrical look with its 7.2-inch spacing between the ribs, making it particularly favored in architectural designs. Its trapezoidal shape enhances load capacity and reduces the need for additional structural support, making it suitable for commercial and industrial uses with metal purlins. The panel specifications include a rib height of 1.5 inches, lengths ranging from 1 foot to 52 feet, and a coverage width of 36 inches. Western States Metal Roofing offers this product in multiple gauges (20, 22, 24, 26) and produces it using AZ50 minimum substrate (Galvalume®/Zincalume®) with exposed fasteners. The recommended minimum roof slope is 1/12, and installation can occur over an open purlin system or solid substrate, with bead mastic suggested for overlaps in roofing applications. This versatile panel suits residential, commercial, agricultural, and interior uses. Western States Metal Roofing provides a range of specialty paint finishes in different colors and textures. To enhance water protection, install roofing underlayment over wood. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Western States Metal Roofing Western Rib Screw Down Metal Roofing Panels.

Various snow management solutions can enhance the Western Rib® Panel to control snow and ice accumulation on roofs effectively. These include the polycarbonate SnoBlox Deuce, a pad-style guard that holds snow and ice in place, and the SnowBreaker, which fragments snow and ice into smaller, less hazardous pieces as they fall. Install these guards with screws or adhesive; we recommend using 3M double-sided tape for the SnowBreaker. The Western Rib® Panel is also compatible with the galvanized SnoBar and aluminum ColorBar snow rails, which utilize the 1.5-inch wide aluminum Tall ColorBracket for secure attachment, offering reliable snow management capabilities.

Western States Metal Roofing Compatibility Chart for Snow Guards

Considerations for Adding Snow Guards to Exposed Fastener Roofs by Western States Metal Roofing

Harmonizing Snow Guards with Your Roof's Design

Snow guards must complement the color scheme of your roof to achieve a cohesive look. You can order custom color inserts for ColorBar and SnoCleat systems or utilize leftover roofing materials to create your own. Metal pad-style guards and rail systems can be powder-coated to achieve an exact match. If you're looking for a faster option, consider local coating services or DIY painting, considering that powder coating may extend delivery times.

Securely Fastening Snow Guards

Effective anchoring is vital for mechanically mounted snow guards. You should attach them to a solid substrate, ideally using at least one inch of durable wood, such as plywood decking or purlins. For metal structures, the best approach is a direct connection to metal purlins. Avoid relying solely on the roof panel for support. If extra reinforcement is not an option, use adhesive-mounted guards for less sturdy structures.

Assessing Your Roof's Snow Load Capacity

Understanding your roof's snow load capacity is essential when choosing the right snow retention system. Meteorologists analyze historical data to establish regional snow loads. Individual guards or screw-down rails are usually adequate in areas where ground snow loads are 45 PSF or less. However, we recommend rail systems for regions with heavier snowfall.

Ensuring Waterproofing for Your Snow Guards

A thorough application of silicone sealant is essential for screw-mounted polycarbonate snow guards. Ensure the base is completely covered, and press down firmly to eliminate any air bubbles. Although metal snow guards and rail brackets often come equipped with waterproof gaskets, some installers apply sealant around the edges for added protection, though this is optional.

Optimal Placement for Effective Snow Guards

The placement of snow guards plays a crucial role in their performance. Always adhere to the recommended guidelines for the best layout. Avoid concentrating guards in isolated areas, such as directly above doorways or walkways, as this can overload the system and lead to failure. Our website provides helpful resources, including spacing guides and quote request forms, to assist you.

Best Timing for Installing Adhesive Snow Guards

The timing of adhesive snow guard installation is critical. In North America, late spring or early summer is the optimal period. The recommended adhesive, Surebond SB190, requires about a month of temperatures above 50°F (10°C) for complete curing. While cold weather can interrupt the curing process, rain is not a concern after the first 24 hours.

Conclusion

SnoBlox-Snojax is a leading provider of snow guard solutions, offering a wide range of products and personalized support to ensure optimal installations. Our company's dedicated team is readily available to address customer inquiries via email or phone, guiding them through installation. To enhance customer understanding, SnoBlox-Snojax has developed valuable resources such as a comprehensive Snow Guard Buyer's Guide and a "What Works and What Doesn't" page, which offer crucial information and practical insights for informed decision-making. Our company's commitment to quality extends beyond our products as we strive to equip customers with the necessary tools and knowledge for successful installations. By encouraging clients to utilize these resources, SnoBlox-Snojax aims to provide a thorough understanding of their snow guard offerings and ensure customer satisfaction.

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.