Metal Roof Snow Guards

Metal Roof Snow Guards, also known as snow retention systems or snow brakes, are devices or fixtures installed on roofs to prevent or control the sudden release of snow and ice from the roof's surface. They are commonly used in regions with heavy snowfall to improve safety and protect property from the potential hazards associated with falling snow and ice. Snow guards work by creating friction and holding snow and ice in place on the roof until it can melt or be removed in a controlled manner. The specific type of snow guard used depends on factors such as the roof's design, the climate of the region, and the aesthetics of the building. A properly installed snow guard system can help prevent dangerous snow avalanches from roofs, protect gutters and downspouts, and reduce the risk of damage to pedestrians, vehicles, and landscaping below. It's essential to consult with an architect, engineer, or snow guard specialist to determine the most suitable snow retention solution for a particular roof.

Types of Snow Guards

These are often individual plastic or metal pads or blocks affixed to the roof's flat surface. Typically, independently placed snow stops are spaced throughout the whole roof to restrict the movement of frozen precipitation. Pad Style snow guards can be fastened with adhesive to the roof surface or screwed down through the metal roof panel into a structural support below. These types of snow guards can made from polycarbonate or metal. It is advised that single snow guards be spaced apart so that they behave like fingers, gripping the snow and ice and holding it in place until it can safely melt. The SnowBreaker's distinctive pointed design provides friction to help break up snow and ice into tiny pieces so it may safely fall off the roof.

These types of snow rails consist of metal bars or rods that are attached horizontally across the entire roof. They are designed to keep snow and ice in place and prevent it from sliding down the roof all at once. They are commonly used on architectural panels and can be color-matched to the metal roof panel. It is preferable to use a square bar or a rail that has a flat face to hold the snow. Bar-Style snow guards can be mounted on clamps to the standing seams or screwed down to a mechanically fastened panel using a bar mounting bracket.

These types of snow retention systems are designed to be installed on the seams of a standing seam metal roof. They can be individual snow stops or snow bars mounted on the metal roof seams with roof clamps. Installation can be done any time of year, weather permitting.

These are usually installed using a screw down bracket that attaches to the flat portion of a screw fastened type metal roof. These brackets support a mechanically fastened continuous bar style snow retention system. When spaced properly, mechanically-attached snow rails will help mitigate the damage caused by sliding snow and ice while distributing the weight of snow and ice evenly across the roof. The bar brackets are available to fit most types of screwed down metal roof panels. Many architects prefer the look of the SnoBar snow retention system because they are discreet without disrupting the roof's aesthetics.

The SnoBlox Slate Guard, designed for places that encounter greater snow loads, allows quick installation and is appropriate for existing or new construction applications. It has reduced the need to remove slate, reducing the risk of fracture. Insert the slotted bar under the slate or shingle, engage a nail in one of the strategically located slots, and pull down to firmly attach the bar. If installing before a new roof is put down, simply screw down the strap before nailing down the roofing shingles.

SnoBar/ColorBar products may be safely placed on Membrane/TPO-type roof systems without causing roof leaks, membrane damage, or voiding warranties because of our proprietary Membrane Mounts. A 12-gauge 304 stainless steel plate, two 304 stainless steel studs, and one extruded aluminum ColorBracket mount are used to make membrane mounts. Mechanical connection to new or existing roof structures is made possible by six pre-drilled screw holes. They are intended to be mechanically secured over the base membrane layer and then flashed over with a 12"x 12" square of membrane to create a watertight seal. Please call for pricing.