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Pennsylvania winters bring a lot of snow and freezing temperatures. For homeowners with metal roofs, these beautiful but harsh conditions can pose significant challenges. While metal roofs are known for their durability and longevity, snow and ice can easily slide off their smooth surfaces. This isn’t just an inconvenience—it can be dangerous. Snow guards for metal roofs offer an effective solution, preventing these sudden snow slides and keeping your home and family safe.

In this article, we’ll dive deeper into what snow guards are, why they’re essential, and how they can protect your home during the winter months.

What Are Snow Guards?

Snow guards are small, often unobtrusive devices that are installed on metal roofs to hold snow and ice in place. Without snow guards, snow can build up on the roof and suddenly slide off in large, dangerous sheets. This can cause significant damage to property and pose serious risks to anyone walking nearby. Snow guards help control this by allowing snow to melt gradually or fall off in smaller amounts.

These devices come in various shapes and sizes, but they generally fall into two categories:

  • Point-Style Snow Guards: These are small, individual guards that are spaced out across the roof. They work by breaking up the snow into smaller sections, allowing it to melt or slide off in smaller, less dangerous chunks.
  • Bar-Style Snow Guards: These are long, continuous bars that run horizontally along the roof, holding back larger amounts of snow and ice. They are ideal for larger roofs or areas that receive heavier snowfall.

Both styles are effective, and the choice often comes down to the size and slope of your roof, as well as the typical snowfall in your area.

Why Are Snow Guards Important for Metal Roofs?

Why Are Snow Guards Important for Metal Roofs?

Metal roofs have a smooth, slippery surface that makes them great for shedding rain, but this becomes a problem when snow accumulates. Without snow guards, large amounts of snow can slide off the roof in an instant. This is not just an inconvenience—it can lead to serious damage and pose risks to the safety of your family and property.

Here’s why snow guards for metal roofs are so important:

  • Prevent Property Damage: When snow and ice slide off a metal roof without warning, it can damage anything in its path. Gutters, landscaping, parked cars, and outdoor furniture are all at risk. Snow guards stop this from happening by keeping the snow in place, reducing the risk of sudden slides.
  • Increase Safety: Snow guards protect anyone walking near your home from falling snow and ice. This is especially important if you have entryways, sidewalks, or driveways near your roof’s edges. Without snow guards, heavy snow and ice can fall unexpectedly, causing injury to people or pets.
  • Protect Your Roof: Snow guards distribute the weight of the snow more evenly across the roof, reducing stress on the roof’s structure. This can help extend the life of your roof by preventing damage caused by uneven weight distribution during heavy snowfall.

Benefits of Installing Snow Guards

Installing snow guards on your metal roof provides numerous benefits, both immediate and long-term:

  • Property Protection: Without snow guards, snow and ice can slide off your roof and damage anything in its path. Snow guards prevent these large slides, protecting your gutters, plants, cars, decks, and other outdoor structures. This can save you from costly repairs or replacements.
  • Roof Longevity: Snow guards reduce the wear and tear on your roof. When snow stays in place, it puts less stress on the roof, which can help prevent cracks, leaks, or other damage over time. This extends the lifespan of your roof and helps avoid expensive roof repairs or replacements.
  • Safety: The most important benefit of snow guards is the increased safety they provide. You won’t have to worry about dangerous snow or ice falling on your family, visitors, or pets when they’re near your home.
  • Increased Home Value: For homeowners in snowy regions, snow guards can add value to your home by enhancing the overall safety and durability of your property. Potential buyers will appreciate the added protection, making your home more attractive on the market.

How to Choose the Right Snow Guards for Your Metal Roof

Choosing the right snow guards for your metal roof depends on several factors, including the size of your roof, its slope, and the amount of snowfall you typically receive. Here’s what to consider:

  • Roof Type and Design: Not all snow guards work for every roof. A steep slope or unusual design might require a specific type of snow guard. Be sure to select a product that fits your roof’s unique characteristics.
  • Material and Durability: Snow guards are made from a variety of materials, including metal and polycarbonate (plastic). Metal snow guards tend to be more durable and can better withstand the harsh winters in Pennsylvania. They are less likely to crack or break under the pressure of heavy snow.
  • Aesthetic Considerations: Snow guards don’t have to ruin the look of your roof. Many snow guards are designed to blend in with your roof’s color and style. This way, you get the protection you need without sacrificing curb appeal.
  • Professional Installation vs. DIY: While some homeowners opt for DIY installation, it’s generally better to hire a professional. Proper placement and installation are critical for snow guards to work effectively. A professional installer will know where to place the snow guards to ensure maximum protection and will ensure that the installation doesn’t damage your roof.

The Installation Process

Snow Guard Installation for roofs

Installing snow guards is a relatively straightforward process, but it’s essential to do it correctly to avoid future problems. The first step is to have a professional inspect your roof. They will assess whether your roof is in good condition and determine the best placement for the snow guards.

Once the inspection is complete, the installation process begins. Snow guards are usually installed near the roof’s edges, above entryways, and around areas where snow tends to build up. The number of snow guards you’ll need depends on your roof’s size and slope.

The cost of installation will vary based on several factors, including the type of snow guard, the size of your roof, and the labor involved. However, the investment is small compared to the potential cost of repairs or injury caused by sliding snow.

Common Myths About Snow Guards

Some misconceptions prevent homeowners from installing snow guards, but it’s important to separate fact from fiction. Let’s debunk a few common myths:

  • Myth 1: Snow guards are only necessary in areas with heavy snow.
    This isn’t true. Even moderate snowfall can create dangerous conditions on a metal roof. Snow guards are essential in any region that experiences snow, including areas like Pennsylvania where snowfall varies from year to year.
  • Myth 2: Snow guards are unsightly and ruin the roof’s appearance.
    Modern snow guards are designed to blend in with the roof. You can choose from various styles and colors, ensuring that they match the look of your home without detracting from its curb appeal.
  • Myth 3: Snow guards damage the roof.
    When properly installed, snow guards won’t damage your roof. In fact, they protect the roof by preventing the buildup of heavy snow in one area, which can cause damage over time.

Maintaining Your Roof After Installing Snow Guards

After installing snow guards, regular maintenance is essential to keep them working properly and extend the life of your roof. Here are a few tips:

  • Annual Roof Inspections: Have your roof and snow guards inspected before the winter season to make sure they’re in good condition.
  • Clearing Debris: Keep your roof free of debris, such as leaves and branches, that could interfere with the snow guards or damage the roof.
  • Checking for Damage: After heavy snowfalls, inspect your snow guards to ensure none have become loose or damaged. If you notice any issues, contact a professional to repair or replace them.

Conclusion

Snow guards for metal roofs are a must-have for Pennsylvania homeowners. They protect your property, increase safety, and extend the life of your roof. By preventing sudden snow slides, snow guards keep your home safe during the winter months.

Don’t wait until the snow starts piling up. Schedule an inspection today to prepare your home for the cold and snowy season ahead. With the right snow guards in place, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your roof—and everything below it—is protected.