The Benefits of Metal Roof Snow Stops

dovetailrain
Oct 4
4 min read

When winter rolls in, snow piling up on your roof can become a real headache. If you have a metal roof, you might have noticed how quickly snow can slide off in big sheets. This can be dangerous for people below and can even damage your property. That’s where metal roof snow guards come in. They help keep snow in place, making your home safer and protecting your roof. I want to share what I’ve learned about these handy devices and why they’re worth considering.

Why You Should Consider Metal Roof Snow Guards

Metal roofs are great for many reasons - they last a long time, look sleek, and handle weather well. But snow sliding off metal roofs can be a problem. Snow guards are small rails installed on the roof to hold snow in place. This stops large chunks of snow and ice from falling suddenly.

Here’s why I think metal roof snow guards are a smart choice:

Safety first: They prevent snow from sliding off and hitting people, pets, or property below.
Protect your landscaping: Falling snow can damage plants, shrubs, and outdoor furniture.
Avoid damage to gutters and roof edges: Heavy snow sliding off can pull gutters loose or damage roof edges.
Even snow melt: Snow guards help snow melt gradually, reducing ice dams and leaks.
Peace of mind: You don’t have to worry about sudden snow slides when you’re outside or near your home.

If you want to keep your home and family safe during snowy months, installing metal roof snow stops is a practical step.

Snow Fallen from Steel Roof, without snow stops. Damaging the cars hood.

How Metal Roof Snow Guards Work

Snow guards work by breaking up the snow and ice on your roof into smaller sections. Instead of sliding off all at once, the snow melts and falls off slowly. This reduces the risk of injury or damage.

There are different types of snow guards for metal roofs:

Bar-style guards: These are metal bars that run across the roof. They hold back snow and ice effectively.
Pad-style guards: Small pads attached to the roof surface. They are less visible but still do the job.
Fence-style guards: Similar to bars but with a fence-like design for extra strength.

Installation is usually straightforward. The guards are attached directly to the metal roof panels using screws or clamps. It’s important to space them properly to get the best results. Too few guards won’t hold the snow well, and too many can be costly.

If you’re unsure about the best type or placement, a professional installer can help you decide based on your roof’s size, pitch, and local snow conditions.

How much does it cost to install snow guards on a metal roof?

One of the first questions I get asked is about cost. Installing snow guards is an investment, but it’s one that pays off in safety and roof protection.

Here’s a rough idea of what you might expect:

Materials & Installation: Installed snow guards can cost between $12 to $30 per foot depending on the style and material. Standing seam roofs are on the high side of the costs because they require clamps with additional parts and labor. Roofs with exposed fasteners can have the snow stops screwed in place and cost less.
Total cost: The length of your roof from the edge of the roof at the rain gutter up to the top edge at the ridge and the pitch (steepness) will determine how many rows of snow stops you'll need. Most roofs need one or two rows.

Keep in mind, prices depend on your roof size, the number of guards needed, and your location. It’s a good idea to get a few quotes from local installers to compare.

While the upfront cost might seem high, think about the potential damage and injury you avoid. Snow guards can save you money on repairs and give you peace of mind during winter storms.

Tips for Choosing the Right Snow Guards

Choosing the right snow guards can feel overwhelming with all the options out there. Here are some tips that helped me:

Match the material: Pick snow guards made from the same or compatible metal as your roof to avoid corrosion.
Consider your climate: If you get heavy snow, stronger and more guards are better.
Think about appearance: Some guards are more visible than others. Choose a style that fits your home’s look.
Check warranty and quality: Good quality guards last longer and work better.
Hire a pro: Proper installation is key. A professional will know the best placement and method.

By following these tips, you’ll get the best protection without compromising your roof’s style.

Maintaining Your Metal Roof Snow Guards

Once installed, snow guards don’t need much attention. But a little maintenance helps them last longer:

Inspect after storms: Check for any loose or damaged guards.
Clean debris: Remove leaves or branches that might get caught.
Check for rust or wear: Especially if guards are older or in harsh weather areas.
Schedule roof inspections: When you have your roof checked, ask the inspector to look at the snow guards too.

Keeping your snow guards in good shape means they’ll keep protecting your home for many winters.

Why I Recommend Metal Roof Snow Guards

After learning about and seeing the benefits firsthand, I’m convinced that metal roof snow guards are a smart addition for anyone with a metal roof in snowy areas. They are a simple, effective way to:

Protect your family and visitors from falling snow
Prevent damage to your home and landscaping
Help your roof last longer by managing snow and ice better

If you want to avoid the risks of snow sliding off your metal roof, consider installing metal roof snow stops. It’s a small investment that makes a big difference in winter safety and comfort.

I hope this guide helps you understand why snow guards are worth it and how to choose the right ones for your home. Stay safe and warm this winter!