How well does your roof handle snow?
In Alberta, we are no strangers to heavy snowfall and high winds that can result in snow avalanches or roof collapses.
While a higher-pitched roof can help to avoid leaks, the incline is not your friend when it comes to metal roofs.
So how do you stop the risk of falling snow?
The answer: metal roof snow guards.
In this blog, we explain how snow guards work and outline the top three things to consider when installing them so you can make the best decision for your roof.
How Much Snow Can A Roof Hold in Canada?
Ever wonder what the load capacity is of your roof?
Due to heavy yearly snowfall amounts, Alberta requires each roof to hold a minimum of 22 pounds or at least 4.5 feet of snow drifts.
High winds, snow type and the slope of your roof can impact the amount of snow it can hold, but the effects of ignoring the rooftop snow can be devastating.
If left untouched, a build-up of heavy snow on your roof can result in ice dams or new leaks as the snow melts, ultimately leading to a collapsing roof.
As a precaution, clearing off the rooftop snow, keeping roof drains clear and avoiding creating snow piles against downspouts are some easy steps that you can take to protect your roof.
If you want to take your winter safety to the next level, you can also consider the use of snow guards.
Stay ahead of the snow this year when you book your snow removal services to protect your roof from collapsing.
How Do Snow Guards Work on Metal Roofs?
Snow guards, also known as snow rails or snow brakes, help to control how snow falls off your roof more predictably.
Rather than fearing the sudden fall of heavy sheets of snow on a sloped roof, a snow guard retention system works to evenly distribute the weight of snow and ice.
You will find them most commonly used on residential and commercial buildings with sloped metal roofs due to the slippery nature of the metal.
Contrary to popular belief, snow guards do not cause ice dams, but rather they hold the snow in place to assist in the melting process.
The Benefits of Snow Guards
- Reduced maintenance costs to gutters, skylights, and lower roofs
- Safeguard your landscaping, vehicle, and equipment
- Increased protection from above for people and animals by preventing injuries caused by falling snow and ice chunks
- Long-term protection for your roof by avoiding cracking and leaks
- Increased property value by highlighting a special feature on your roof
- Reduced liability from injury claims
Where Should I Place Snow Guards on My Metal Roof?
As a rule of thumb, you should position snow guards on the lower half of the roof in a single line or multiple rows. However, the type of snow guard will dictate its placement on the roof based on its size and length.
Low-profile snow guards are less than 4 inches in length and are less noticeable than large-profile snow guards (sized 15 inches or more).
While you can stagger large-profile snow guards, each kind should be placed 1 to 2 feet from the eavestrough.
Do I Need Snow Guards on A Metal Roof?
Yes, if you have a metal roof, we recommend you install snow guards. Metal roofs are more slippery than shingles, but the controlled flow of snow helps you avoid a cave-in.
Snow guards are not necessary for shingled roofs, unless the pitch of the roof makes it more susceptible to snow avalanches.
If the steep of your roof is higher than 6/12 pitch and your geographical location is more prone to heavier snowfalls, we recommend installing snow guards.
READ MORE: When You Should Book Rooftop Snow Removal This Winter
How To Install Snow Guards on A Metal Roof: Best Practices
The best time to install snow guards is during fall maintenance once your roof has been inspected for roof leaks, cracking, or other signs of damage.
Your choice of snow guard should be based on: the roof pitch, guard style, snow load, and roof length. Each snow guard should be attached to a cross-member, and we recommend staggering them.
At Knights Roofing, we approach snow guard installation the same way we approach every winter upgrade: by assessing your roof’s structure, slope, and snow exposure before recommending anything.
Here are three things to consider when installing snow guards:
1. Choose The Right Fastening
Snow guards can be installed as a glue-on option or clamps.
We recommend installing with clamps as they are more likely to hold season to season and are faster to install.
Ensure that the fastener of choice does not damage the metal coating on the panel or puncture your roof.
2. Avoid Low-Quality Materials
Metal roofs are designed to last from 40 to 70 years if properly installed.
Snow guards can be made out of plastic, copper, aluminum or steel.
While plastic snow guards are the most cost-effective, they will only last a few years.
Copper snow guards are the most expensive option but will last a lifetime.
We recommend choosing aluminum or steel snow guards for their fair pricing and lifespan of over 50 years.
3. Weight Capacity
Steel or copper snow guards can withstand over 300 kg per snow guard bracket.
Bar-style snow guards can support more weight as it is spread more evenly throughout the bar.
Depending on the pitch of your roof and the average annual snowfall in your area, you may need multiple rows of snow guards to support the weight.
Is Your Roof Ready for Winter?
Our team of experts at Knights Roofing is here to help with customized recommendations for your roof and your needs.
For more information on how you can protect your roof this winter, check out our essential tips for preventing winter roof leaks.
Contact us today for a free estimate and transform your roof with protection from above.