When the weather outside is frightful, having a solid roof over your head is truly delightful. But is your roof ready for winter’s ice and snow? What are metal roof snow guards, and should you get them installed on your home or business?
What Are Metal Roof Snow Guards?
Every home and business owner knows that before the first snow of the year hits, your roof needs to be ready. After all, winter roof damage can cost you thousands of dollars, and leave your home or business drafty and leaky during the coldest part of the year. If you have a metal roof, you might be assuming that as long as the roof is solid, you’re set for the season. Unlike other roofing materials, metal roofs don’t need to have snow and ice cleaned off of them. Instead, winter weather slides right off as soon as it gets warm enough to melt. Problem solved, right?
Wrong. While metal roofs are easier to maintain in the winter, they can still have issues. This is why safety equipment like metal roof snow guards are essential. But what are metal roof snow guards?
Prevent a Roof Avalanche with a Metal Roof Snow Guard
Have you ever seen a movie or TV show that features an avalanche? They always start the same way: It’s quiet and still, then with a rumble, a sheet of snow falls across the landscape from a great height like a winter tidal wave. Avalanches can trap people and animals, crush buildings, and cause thousands of dollars of damage during the snowy season. What if I told you that if you have a metal roof without roof guards, you might be facing an avalanche of your own in the near future?
A “roof avalanche” is what occurs when snow and ice freeze on top of a metal roof, and then slide off when the temperature warms up. If there’s only a little bit of snow or ice on the roof, this isn’t a problem. However, if you live somewhere that’s prone to heavy snowfall, a roof avalanche can become a problem fast. Imagine hundreds of pounds of snow, ice particles, and miscellaneous debris unexpectedly sliding off your roof. Would your gutters survive? What if the snow fell on your car, a pet, or even another person?
That’s why metal roof snow guards are so important. These small metal fences are installed on the sides of metal roofs, where they block large amounts of snow from unexpectedly sliding to the ground. It’s a simple piece of safety equipment that can save you a lot of grief.
How Can I Get Metal Roof Guards?
Hopefully you already have these helpful safety items installed. However, if you don’t have metal roof guards, here’s what you can do about it:
- Call an experienced roofer for guidance. Roof guards look and sound simple enough, but they need to be made from a material that is compatible with your existing roof, and they need to be installed correctly for safety’s sake. Installation requires equipment and expertise most homeowners don’t have, so don’t make this a DIY project. Call the professionals.
- Select roof guards that complement your home or business. You may be worried about how a roof guard will impact the look of your home, but worry not. There are thousands of different models of roof guards, and it’s easy to find ones that will blend into your existing architecture.
- Stay on top of regular roof maintenance. Roof guards are great, but don’t assume you’re done taking care of your roof. Your roof should still be inspected annually, and cleaned and maintained as appropriate.
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Don’t let a roof avalanche ruin your holiday fun. Install metal roof snow guards, and winter weather will take care of itself.
If you live in southwest Missouri, contact Taylor-Made Roofing for help with your metal roof guard purchase and installation. Not only can our experts help you explore options, but also we can help you maintain an older roof, perform emergency repairs, complete tear-offs and recovers, and perform remodeling services. With over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing, Taylor-Made Roofing is a company that you can trust with all of your roofing needs. Our family-owned business offers quality services, a reassuring warranty, and free estimates. For more information regarding roofing options, please give us a call at 417-326-8778 or contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!