Snow guards are among the most essential safety components for buildings constructed in snowy regions. Sudden sliding of accumulated snow from the roof can lead to serious and costly damage.
– Why Do We Need Snow Guards?
– What Is a Zip Panel Snow Guard?
– Technical Specifications of the Snow Guard System
– Types of Zip Panel Snow Guards
– Benefits of Installing Aluminum Snow Guards
– How to Install Snow Guards on a Standing Seam Roof
Sudden sliding of accumulated snow from the roof can create serious risks:
– Safety hazards for pedestrians and people passing nearby
– Damage to gutters and drainage systems
– Impact damage to vehicles parked adjacent to the building
– Concentrated loads on specific roof areas that may affect the structure
Installing a proper snow guard system helps minimize these risks.
A Zip Panel snow guard is an aluminum system installed on metal roofs to prevent sudden snow sliding by evenly distributing the snow load. This system is recognized by the Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA) as one of the safety standards for roofing. Using snow guards not only improves building safety but also helps protect the structure, equipment, and people around the building from potential damage.
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Clip Guard | Aluminum, 2 mm thickness |
| Snow Clip | Aluminum |
| Anti-slip Rubber | Protects the sheet’s color |
| Aluminum Tube | 25 mm diameter |
| Screw, Nut, and Washer | Galvanized, 1 to 5 inches |
We are with you from the planning stage through to final execution.
Single-Tube Snow Guard
Designed for low-slope roofs with moderate snowfall. A single 25mm aluminum tube effectively retains snow loads while blending seamlessly with the roof’s aesthetics. Due to its lighter weight, this model allows for faster installation and serves as a cost-effective solution for smaller residential projects.
Double-Tube Snow Guard
Ideal for regions with heavy snowfall. Two parallel tubes provide superior resistance against snow pressure. This system is highly recommended for industrial buildings, warehouses, and large-span structures frequently exposed to heavy snow accumulation.
The selection of the appropriate snow guard system is professionally engineered based on building dimensions, geographical location, and local snowfall data.
Double-Pipe Snow Guard
Single‑Row Snow Guard
1. Prevents sudden snow sliding and improves safety
2. Ensures uniform distribution of snow load across the roof surface
3. Installation without drilling — preserves roof integrity
4. Corrosion resistant due to aluminum construction
5. Long service life with minimal maintenance requirements
There are three main methods for installing snow guard systems on roofs:
Method — Description
Non‑penetrating — Installed on the seams of standing seam roofs using clamps, without drilling
Penetrating — Fastened with screws to the roof structure
Chemical — Bonded using chemical adhesives
Recommended Method: Non‑Penetrating Installation
In the non‑penetrating method used in the Space Frame Zip Panel snow guard system, installation is carried out using dedicated aluminum clamps mounted directly onto the metal seams of the standing seam roof. This method creates no holes in the roof profile and prevents potential water leakage in the future. The roof’s integrity and service life are fully preserved.
For regions with heavy snowfall, the use of a roof snow‑melting system alongside snow guards is recommended. This system gradually melts the retained snow and directs the water out through the gutters. The combination of these two systems provides the highest level of safety for metal roofs.
All components of the Zip Panel snow guard system are made of aluminum. Aluminum is resistant to rust and corrosion and is designed to last at least as long as the roof itself. The anti‑slip rubber also prevents damage to the roof sheet coating. Galvanized bolts, nuts, and washers are supplied in sizes ranging from 1 to 5 inches to ensure compatibility with various types of metal roofs.