During this cold season, it is common to see homeowners dealing with the effects of accumulated snow on their roofs. This problem has become a major one for those who have metal roofs. Although metal roofs are durable and long-lasting, they can create a unique problem during winter: snow and ice sliding off them quickly, posing risks to your property and loved ones. That’s where snow guards come in.
Understanding the need for snow guards on metal roofs isn’t just a matter of aesthetics—it’s about safety and protection.
Here’s why snow guards are essential, how they work, and why they should be a priority in your roofing system.
We already discussed the advantages of metal roofs over other types of roofs. However, it is also important to say that they also come with a significant trade-off: metal is slicker than other roofing materials, which means snow and ice tend to slide off more easily.
While this can be an advantage when it comes to clearing snow off your roof, it becomes a problem when large amounts of snow or ice come tumbling down all at once.
There are already many reports of property damage and personal injury caused by snow avalanches off metal roofs. Installing snow guards can prevent these dangerous snow slides by breaking up the snow and ice into manageable, smaller sections, allowing it to melt or fall off gradually.
Simply put, snow guards attach to your roof and serve as a barrier to control snow and ice flow.
These small yet powerful systems come in many shapes and sizes, depending on your roof’s design and the amount of snowfall typical for your area. The guards hold the snow in place, slowing its descent and allowing it to melt off safely.
You can think of snow guards as the “brakes” on your metal roof.
Rather than letting the snow slide off uncontrollably, they “catch” the snow and keep it in place until the temperature rises or the snow can be cleared safely. Without snow guards, you might face dangerous “snow avalanches” that damage property and lead to serious personal injury.
Clamp-on snow guards are ideal for homeowners who want a straightforward installation without drilling holes in their roofs. These guards attach directly to the seams of the metal roof and clamp on securely. They’re easy to install and don’t require a lot of maintenance.
For homeowners who want an even less invasive option, adhesive snow guards offer a simple and effective solution. These guards use a strong adhesive to bond to the roof’s surface, making them a good option for low-pitch roofs or roofs with minimal snow accumulation. However, adhesive guards are not as durable as clamped ones and may not work well in areas with heavy snow.
Snow rail systems are perfect for roofs that experience significant snowfalls. They consist of horizontal rails attached to the roof, creating a continuous barrier to hold the snow in place. These systems are very effective for roofs with steep slopes and heavy snowfall. Snow rails can prevent massive snow slides, giving you peace of mind throughout winter.
Snow fences work like their namesake: physical barriers installed along the roof prevent snow from falling off. These can be attached directly to your roof or installed on a structure nearby. Snow fences are typically used with other types of snow guards for additional protection in areas with extreme snow conditions.
When selecting snow guards, you must choose the right style based on your roof’s slope, the snow you typically receive, and your aesthetic preferences.
It should have been done during your roof’s initial installation or a major replacement to ensure the system is integrated seamlessly and without disruption. But don’t worry if you didn’t; it’s also possible to install snow guards on an existing metal roof; as the saying goes, it’s better late than never.
While snow guards are a relatively small investment compared to the overall cost of a roof, believe me, you’ll be thankful you took the time to invest in them.
Don’t wait until winter weather strikes! Contact JM Exteriors Roofing Siding to protect your home, family, and property now by installing snow guards on your metal roof.
