Snow Guards in Albany, NY

What are snow guards?

Snow guards are roof-mounted devices designed to hold snow and ice in place, preventing it from sliding off in large sheets. They come in different shapes, sizes, and materials, but their primary function is to allow snow to melt gradually rather than falling suddenly onto walkways, driveways, vehicles, or landscaping. By keeping snow securely on the roof, snow guards help reduce the risks associated with falling ice.

When Are Snow Guards Necessary?

Snow guards are particularly beneficial for steep roofs and those made of materials like metal, slate, or wood. Asphalt roofs, on the other hand, typically provide enough surface friction to naturally hold snow in place. However, in heavy snow conditions, layers of wet snow can bond together, freeze overnight, and form a dangerous ice mass. Even with proper insulation, heat escaping from the attic can create slick conditions on the roof, increasing the risk of ice sliding off unexpectedly. Snow guards help prevent this by holding the snow in place until it can safely melt away.

Managing Heavy Snowfall and Ice Accumulation

In particularly harsh winter climates, snow and ice may not melt as quickly as expected, leading to a continuous buildup on the roof. In these situations, additional heat sources may be used to assist with snow melting. While some homeowners consider installing heat tape, we do not recommend it for most roof types due to warranty concerns and fire risks. Instead, there are alternative methods that can be used to manage ice accumulation safely.

Choosing the type of snow guard that will be installed depends on the type of roof that is on the residential or business building

Choosing the Right Snow Guards for Your Roof

The best snow guard for a home or business depends on the type of roof material:

Lexan Snow Guards – These transparent guards provide a discreet yet effective solution while helping to maintain roof integrity and prevent corrosion. They are bonded to metal roofs with specialized weather-resistant adhesives.
Aluminum Snow Guards – Often used on cedar shake or stone tile roofs, aluminum is a lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and eco-friendly option.
Metal Roofs – If installing snow guards on a metal roof, it’s best to match the material of the guard to the type of metal used for the roof, such as aluminum, copper, galvanized, or galvalume steel. Mixing metals can lead to chemical reactions that cause corrosion over time. Even with protective insulation, rainwater can accelerate the deterioration process, leading to long-term issues.

The Brothers that just do Gutters offer snow guard installations along with a multitude of other services to help control the winter season’s adverse snow conditions. Some of the best products still require a support of many different solutions to achieve the ultimate solution. Speak to a solutionist today to find out if snow guards are right for you.