BLOG NUMBER 28.05
Metal roofs are known for their durability and longevity, but in snowy regions, they can pose a risk due to the potential for snow and ice to slide off suddenly. This is where snow guards come in. Installing snow guards on your metal roof offers several advantages, not only enhancing safety but also protecting your property. Below are the top five benefits of snow guards and why they are an essential addition to any metal roofing system.
1. Prevents Dangerous Snow Slides
One of the most significant benefits of snow guards is their ability to prevent dangerous snow slides. Without snow guards, snow can accumulate on a metal roof and then suddenly slide off in large chunks. This can pose serious risks to people, pets, and property below. Snow guards work by holding the snow in place, allowing it to melt gradually or be removed in smaller, more manageable amounts. This not only protects anyone below but also prevents damage to landscaping, vehicles, and outdoor equipment.
In regions with heavy snowfall, like the northern United States and Canada, the importance of preventing sudden snow slides cannot be overstated. The safety provided by snow guards is invaluable, particularly in areas where pedestrians and vehicles frequently pass under the eaves of the roof.
2. Reduces the Need for Frequent Snow Removal
Another key advantage of installing snow guards is the reduction in the need for frequent snow removal. Without snow guards, homeowners often need to climb onto their roofs or hire professionals to remove snow after each significant snowfall to prevent dangerous accumulations. This can be both time-consuming and expensive.
Snow guards help manage the snow on your roof by distributing its weight evenly and holding it in place. This reduces the frequency with which snow needs to be removed, making maintenance easier and more cost-effective. By minimizing the need for snow removal, snow guards can also extend the life of your roof by reducing wear and tear from constant shoveling or scraping.
3. Protects Gutters and Roof Structures
Heavy snow and ice sliding off a metal roof can cause significant damage to gutters and other roof structures. The force of falling snow can dislodge gutters, bend downspouts, and even damage the edges of the roof itself. This can lead to costly repairs and compromise the integrity of your roofing system.
One of the critical benefits of snow guards is their ability to protect these vulnerable areas by controlling the flow of snow and ice. By holding the snow in place, snow guards prevent large chunks of ice from building up and then crashing down onto gutters and other roof components. This protection helps maintain the structural integrity of your roof and prolongs the life of your gutters and downspouts.
4. Enhances Roof Longevity and Performance
Metal roofs are designed to last for decades, but their performance can be compromised if they are not properly equipped to handle snow and ice. Snow guards enhance the longevity and performance of metal roofs by preventing issues that can arise from unmanaged snow accumulations.
When snow is allowed to slide off in large quantities, it can cause scratches, dents, and other damage to the surface of the roof. Over time, this damage can lead to corrosion and leaks, shortening the lifespan of the roof. Snow guards prevent this by ensuring that snow melts gradually or can be safely removed without causing harm to the roof’s surface.
Additionally, snow guards can help prevent ice dams, which occur when snow melts and refreezes at the roof’s edge. Ice dams can cause water to back up under the shingles, leading to leaks and water damage inside the home. By holding the snow in place, snow guards reduce the risk of ice dams and the associated damage.
5. Supports Safety Compliance
In many regions, building codes and safety regulations may require the installation of snow guards on metal roofs, especially in commercial properties or in areas with high snowfall. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines or legal liability, particularly if falling snow or ice causes injury or property damage.
For businesses, installing snow guards can also support their duty of care to employees, customers, and visitors. By mitigating the risks associated with falling snow and ice, snow guards help ensure that the property is safe and compliant with local regulations. In the event of an accident, having snow guards installed can also serve as evidence of taking reasonable precautions, which could be important in proceedings involving an expert witness.
For residential properties, snow guards offer peace of mind by protecting your family, visitors, and property. Whether you live in an area with occasional snow or in a region with heavy winter storms, snow guards are a wise investment that can save you from costly repairs.
Also read: Essential Tips for Residential Snow Removal
Benefits of Snow Guards
Installing snow guards on your metal roof is an investment in safety, longevity, and peace of mind. The benefits of snow guards—preventing dangerous snow slides, reducing the need for frequent snow removal, protecting gutters and roof structures, enhancing roof longevity, and supporting safety compliance—make them an essential feature for any metal roofing system in snowy climates.
If you’re considering installing snow guards on your metal roof, Swenson Consulting being a snow expert can greatly help you by ensuring they are correctly installed and suited to your specific roof design. By taking this proactive step, you can protect your property and ensure that your roof performs optimally for years to come. Contact us for more information!
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