Metal roofs are popular because they last a long time, save energy, and look nice. But they come with their own problems, such as snow that piles up and slides down quickly, putting property and people below at risk.
Snow guards are important items that can help with this problem, but there are so many of them on the market that it can be hard to choose the right one.
In this article, we’ll talk about the features, materials, and designs of the best snow guards for metal roofs. This will help you make a choice that’s right for you.
What Are The Best Snow Guards For Metal Roofs?
Snow guards are essential for metal roofs in regions that experience heavy snowfall. They help to prevent the dangerous movement of snow and ice that can “avalanche” off a metal roof. Here are some popular brands to consider when choosing snow guards for metal roofs, along with some popular types:
Popular Brands
- SnoBlox-Snojax: SnoBlox and SnoJax are known for making high-quality snow guards made of plastic.
- Berger Building Products: Berger Building Products has a lot of choices, like snow guards that look like pads or pipes.
- Rocky Mountain Snow Guards: Rocky Mountain Snow Guards make items to keep snow off of all kinds of roofs, even metal ones.
- S-5!: They are known for their clamp-on snow guards for metal roofs with standing seams.
- Alpine SnowGuards: Alpine SnowGuards offers a range of styles and solutions that are made just for you.
Popular Types of Snow Guards
- Pad-Style Snow Guards: Small “pads” or “cleats” are spread evenly across the roof to keep the snow in place. Most of the time, they cost less, but they might not work on roofs that get a lot of snow.
- Pipe-Style Snow Guards: The Pipe-Style Snow Guards are made up of a pipe or a group of pipes that run across the roof horizontally. In general, they are better at keeping back bigger amounts of snow.
- Fence-Style Snow Guards: These are pipe-style, but they use multiple rows of barriers to keep the snow back, kind of like a fence. They are often used in places where people work or where there is a lot of snow.
- Clamp-On Snow Guards: These are made to fit on the seams of metal roofs with standing seams. Most of the time, they are easy to install and don’t require putting holes in the roof.
- Adhesive Snow Guards: Sticky snow guards are connected with strong glue instead of screws, so you don’t have to drill holes in the roof. They might not be as strong as other types, though.
Factors to Consider
- Material: Snow guards made of high-quality materials like stainless steel, polycarbonate, or metal tend to last longer and work better.
- Design: Snow guards come in different styles, such as pad style, pipe-style, and fence style. The choice may depend on how steep your roof is, what kind of metal roof you have, and how you want it to look.
- Load Distribution: Think about how much snow falls where you live and pick a snow guard that can handle that weight.
- Installation: Some snow guards are easier to put in place than others. Make sure to pick one that goes well with the kind of roof you have.
- Cost: Prices can be quite different. Even though it might be tempting to choose the cheapest choice, keep in mind that this is a safety feature that needs to work.
- Manufacturer Reputation: Look for goods from well-known companies that come with warranties or guarantees.
Before making a buy, you should talk to a professional roofer to figure out what you need. They can help you figure out the right type, number, and pattern of snow guards for your metal roof, taking into account things like the pitch of your roof, how much snow you get, and the weather in your area.
What Is The Best Material For Snow Guards?
The best material for snow guards relies on things like how long they last, how nice they look, and what kind of roof they are on. Snow guards made of polycarbonate plastic are light, resistant to UV light, and cheaper than metal ones, but they may not last as long.
Snow guards made of stainless steel and aluminum are very strong and last a long time. This makes them ideal for big snow loads.
Copper and bronze are also used, especially to make the roof look better or to make it fit the materials already on the roof. Talk to a professional to find out what the best material is for your roofing system and the weather where you live.
Conclusion
Choosing the best snow guards for your metal roof is an important safety step that should not be overlooked. The best snow guard will not only work with your particular type of metal roof, but it will also be strong, effective, and look good.
Its usefulness depends on things like the slope of the roof, the weather in the area, and the material and shape of the guard.
By giving these things careful thought and talking to professionals if you need to, you can get a snow guard system that gives you peace of mind and lasts for a long time.
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