Snow Guards in Oklahoma City Metro, OK

What are snow guards?

Snow guards come in various shapes, sizes, and designs, but their purpose remains the same—to prevent snow and ice from sliding off the roof and onto walkways, vehicles, or landscaping. These guards hold accumulated snow in place, allowing it to melt gradually from the sun’s radiant heat or another warming source.

When Are Snow Guards Needed?

Snow guards are commonly installed on buildings with steeply pitched roofs or roofs made of materials like metal, slate, or wood. Asphalt roofs usually have enough surface friction to prevent snow from sliding. However, in wet snow conditions, the snow may clump together, freeze overnight, and form a dangerous block of ice. Even with proper attic insulation, heat escaping from the home can create a slick surface on the roof, increasing the risk of ice sliding off. Snow guards are specifically designed to hold snow in place under these conditions.

Managing Heavy Snowfall and Ice Buildup

In extreme winter conditions, snow and ice may continue to accumulate rather than melting off naturally. In colder regions where snow guards are commonly used, additional heating methods may be applied to assist in melting. While heat tape is sometimes considered, we do not recommend it for most roof types due to potential warranty issues and fire risks. Instead, alternative solutions are available to safely and effectively manage snow and ice buildup.

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 Guard for Your Roof

The best snow guard for a home or business depends on the type of roofing material.

Lexan Snow Guards – These transparent guards offer a low-visibility solution while also helping to maintain roof integrity and prevent corrosion. They are typically bonded to metal roofs using a weather-resistant adhesive.
Aluminum Snow Guards – Ideal for cedar shakes or stone tile roofs, aluminum is a highly durable and environmentally friendly material.
Metal Roofs – When installing snow guards on metal roofs, it is recommended to use the same type of metal as the roof itself—whether aluminum, copper, galvanized, or galvalume steel. Mismatched metals can lead to corrosion due to differences in their chemical composition. Even with insulating materials, rainwater can create an electrolyte bridge, accelerating the corrosion process and 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.