Roof Snow Guards: Do You Need Them for Your Roof?

After a prolonged period of massive snowfall, who's not content to be able to see the sun shining and melting the last remnants of cold winter weather? Although it's an enjoyable view, melting snow can create more issues than you realize. Roof snow guards could be an investment worth considering. They hold snow on the roof to ensure that, when it starts melting, it won't fall down in a single swoop that could result in destruction to the roof and gutters, lights, and other items that are in the path of the snow avalanche.

Continue reading to learn more about the snow protection system and if they're the best option to protect your house. Find out more about different types of ice and snow guards for roofs made of metal and whether the installation is an undertaking you can complete yourself.

Do You Need Snow Guards?

The question of whether installing snow guards is a good idea and is contingent on the location you live in and what kind of roof you own. If you reside in an area that experiences an abundance of snow, they're recommended regardless of the type of roof you've got because the weight of snow will likely cause problems when it starts to melt.

However, when you live in an area with less or more frequent snowfalls and snow, the decision of whether snow guards are a good idea and is dependent on the kind of roof you're using. For a roof made of metal, the use of snow guards is beneficial since the smooth surface makes it possible for snow to easily slide down when the weather gets warm. If your roof is shingled, it is possible that you will require snow guards based on the degree of steepness. The steeper your roof is more likely it will be an avalanche in the aftermath of the storm. Guardrails and snowplows can stop this.

How Snow Guards Work?

When a storm is occurring and snow is accumulating over the roofing, it could get compacted by ice, and then remain in place for a while. But, as temperatures increase, the snow and ice melt and could cause huge amounts of snow to fall off your roof in a single motion which could cause damage. When you install snow guards, they help keep the snow and ice in place, ensuring that it doesn't completely slide down once the weather warms. This lets it fall down into pieces that aren't damaging or completely melt, which allows the water to flow through your gutters.

Snow Guard Installation: DIY or Professional?

If homeowners should install snow guards themselves, it is dependent on the kind they pick and also how steep your roof is. While pad-style snow guards are easier to put in than other types, if you're not cautious, they could cause cracks in the roof which could lead to leaks. Bar and fence-style snow guards aren't easy to install, particularly when you have a sloped roof. It might be beneficial to get a professional to do the task.

If you'd like a discussion about your roofing plan with an expert, we can assist.