Snow Retention Solutions for Kingspan’s Standing Seam Roofs
Posted by Derek Gamble - SnoBlox-Snojax Specialist on Nov 12th 2025
See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Kingspan Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.
Which snow guard systems are best suited for Kingspan standing seam panels?
Standing seam metal roofs deliver a sleek, modern look and long-lasting strength. Yet in snowy climates, they can create dangerous conditions.
Large sheets of snow or ice sliding off the roof, often called "roof avalanches", can damage property or injure people and pets below. Preventing this requires snow guards and snow retention systems designed to match the panel profile and a concealed fastener system. Choosing the right solution ensures secure attachment and dependable performance. This blog series examines snow guard compatibility by panel type, highlighting trusted metal roofing brands for safe and informed product selection.
Who Is Kingspan?
Founded in 1965 in Kingscourt, Ireland, Kingspan has grown from a small construction firm into a global leader in insulated metal panels. With more than 210 facilities across 80 countries, the company employs over 22,000 people and sets industry benchmarks for energy-efficient building materials. Its KingSeam system blends the look of traditional standing seam roofs with modern insulated performance, offering superior thermal efficiency, fire resistance, and design flexibility. Kingspan also leads in sustainability, achieving Net Zero Energy in 2020 and launching its Planet Passionate program to reduce its carbon impact further. The IKON innovation center in Ireland continues to drive advancements in building performance and environmental responsibility.
KingSeam IMP Mechanical Panels
KingSeam panels combine classic standing-seam design with advanced insulation and durability. Available in 22–26 gauge steel, they feature trapezoidal ribs for strength and resistance to foot traffic. Panel widths are 40 inches, with 2-inch-high ribs, and lengths can be up to 50 feet. Mechanically seamed joints provide tight, weather-resistant seals against wind and water. Insulation values range from R-12 to R-46, helping reduce energy costs and stabilize indoor temperatures. Options include Galvalume or factory-applied coatings, with textures like smooth, stucco, or mesa. Thicknesses from 3.25 to 6 allow flexibility for structural and thermal needs. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Kingspan IMP Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.
KingSeam panels support adhesive-mounted polycarbonate guards, including IceJax II, Snojax II, SnoBlox Ace, Deuce, and IceJax I. For controlled release, we recommend the SnowBreaker and SnowBreaker 3M. The rib design also accommodates clamp-on rail systems, such as SnoCleat RC, SnoCleat RCT, SnoBar, and ColorBar. Stainless steel SnoBar clamps or aluminum RoofClamp alternatives are common; however, we recommend test-fitting to ensure a proper fit. Softer aluminum panels may require additional rail rows to provide strength.
KingZip Panels
KingZip panels offer unmatched design flexibility, enabling curved, tapered, or complex roof shapes without sacrificing performance. Available in 12- and 16-inch widths, they can be factory-rolled up to 50 feet or site-rolled up to 500 feet for continuous runs that minimize joints and leaks. Aluminum versions can curve to a 16-foot convex or 26-foot concave radius, making them ideal for sweeping architectural designs. These panels perform reliably on pitches of ½:12 or greater, offering strong weather resistance, thermal efficiency, acoustic control, and fire protection. These are all critical factors for commercial and institutional projects. See the Snow Guards Compatibility Chart for Kingspan KingZip Standing Seam Metal Roofing Panels.
KingZip panels are compatible with adhesive-mounted polycarbonate guards; however, striations may require a thicker adhesive application to ensure a secure fit. Options include IceJax II, Snojax II, SnoBlox Ace, Deuce, and IceJax I, with SnowBreaker products recommended for safer release. The bulb-shaped rib design supports clamp-on rail systems, but standard SnoBar clamps and RoofClamp RC are not compatible. As with KingSeam, test-fitting is essential, and softer aluminum panels may need extra rows for reinforcement.
Kingspan Compatibility Chart for Snow Guards
| KingSeam Panels | KingZip Panels | |
|---|---|---|
 Ecojax |
YES | YES |
 IceJax I |
YES | YES |
 IceJax II |
YES | YES |
 SnoBlox Deuce |
YES | YES |
 Ace |
YES | YES |
 Snojax II |
YES | YES |
 SnowBreaker |
YES | YES |
 SnoBar |
YES | NO |
 ColorBar |
YES | NO |
 SnoBar RCB-3 |
YES | YES |
 ColorBar RCB-3 |
YES | YES |
 2 Bar SnoBar |
YES | YES |
 2 Bar ColorBar |
YES | YES |
 SnoCleat RC |
YES | NO |
 SnoCleat RCT |
YES | YES |
Considerations for Adding Snow Guards to Standing Seam Roofs by Kingspan
Order sample snow guards for test-fitting.
You can order individual snow guard samples directly from our site without a minimum order requirement. Trying them on your roof confirms proper fit and reduces the likelihood of installation errors. Always follow approved installation practices to maintain warranty protection.
Verify that the guards suit your roofing system.
Select snow guards specifically designed for your roof's profile and material. Our compatibility charts help you avoid mismatches and ensure a secure, lasting installation.
Apply adhesives in the correct season.
Contractors should only install adhesive-mounted snow guards when temperatures exceed 50°F to allow proper curing, which takes about 28 days. Water resistance begins within 24 hours. Avoid using Surebond SB-190 on copper, as it is not suitable for that surface.
Adjust installation for complex roof details.
Snow guard placement may need modification around valleys, slope transitions, or other architectural features. Correct positioning in these areas helps maintain system performance and lowers the risk of failure.
Account for regional snow load requirements.
Check local building codes for ground snow load values before choosing a system. Pad-style guards generally support up to 45 pounds per square foot. At the same time, rail systems are better suited for heavier snow accumulation.
Using systems built for unusual roof shapes.
Roofs with curves, steep pitches, or unconventional layouts often require customized snow retention solutions. Collaborate with the roofing manufacturer to determine the optimal solution for your design.
Conclusion
We're dedicated to guiding you through every stage of your snow guard installation. Whether you contact us by phone, email, or online, our experienced team provides support tailored to your specific project. To make product selection easier, we offer a comprehensive Snow Guard Buyer's Guide, along with a Best Practices page that provides professional recommendations and guidance. These tools are part of a larger resource set designed to help you avoid common pitfalls and install with confidence. From clear instructions and dependable products to responsive customer care, our goal is to ensure your snow retention system performs exactly as designed. Our commitment is to safety, transparency, and reliable support you can count on.
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.