FAQ

The type of roof panel that you are attaching snow guards to is one of the primary reasons for the decision to use glue instead of screws during installation.

1. Standing seam roofing is floating, and mechanical fasteners should never be used to puncture it.
• Standing seam panels are fastened into concealed clips that are fixed to decking underneath, as compared to typical r-panel or PBR type screw-down panels, which attach directly to the roof structure. As a result, the floating panels can freely expand and contract in response to temperature variations. This process of expansion and contraction is not impeded by snow guards that are glued in place.

2. For screw-down roof panels, adhesive-mounted snow guards can also be a great option and can prevent expensive repairs in severe weather!
• Snow guards attached with adhesive have a built-in release factor that lets them fall off the roof without damaging metal panels causing leaks. In this case the guards can be re-installed during warmer months.

These spacing charts only go up to 45psf. Ground snow loads are calculated using the typical winter snowfall in your area. It's possible for your roof to experience higher-than-average snowfall conditions even if the charts are used correctly. It is possible for overloading to cause the snow guards to release in these severe circumstances.

We highly recommend using Surebond SB-190 adhesive exclusively, with our polycarbonate snow guards. Which offers a strong, long-term bond between the snow guard and the metal roof panel due to Surebond SB-190’s chemical fusion bond with our guards. The recommended adhesive Surebond SB-190 has a release factor that will not cause metal panel damage or roof leaks, so in the event of a release and are loosened or knocked off, they can be remounted to the same spot during warmer months.

JSP Manufacturing’s Price Matching Policy
We have established a very simple policy. Any written or published price for similar snow guards will be beaten by JSP.
1. Snow guards must match in style, size, shape, and materials used.
2. Must be manufactured in the USA.
3. Must be made from the same 100% virgin grade UV stable clear polycarbonate material.
The basic requirement is that we match similar items that match in style, size, shape, materials used and must be made in the USA.

The least damaging attachment method for snow retention on your metal roof is adhesively mounting a snow guard. Usually, instead of causing panel damage or roof leaks, they will release from the roof in severe winter conditions, above and beyond the intended layout. Reinstalling the snow guards in the same location on the roof is simple. Just use isopropyl alcohol or soap and water to thoroughly clean the panel, then let it dry completely before reapplying the guard using SureBond SB-190 adhesive.

Almost all our polycarbonate snow guards feature molded starting points. Our recommended self-tapping screws have no issues drilling through this material. Making pre-drilling the guards not necessary, however it is possible if you prefer.

We offer multiple screw types for our screw-down snow guards and depends on the type of roof purlins on your roof.

• For Metal Purlins we carry a 1.5” # 14 self-tapping screw
• For Wood Purlins we carry a 2” # 14 self-tapping screw

Both screw types feature neoprene washers, are silver in color and made of case- hardened carbon steel. Longer screws may be required, depending on the insulation underneath the roof panels.

Using screws and 1 tube of Novaflex MR-150 sealant, you can install an average of approximately ten of our larger jumbo snow guards or twenty to twenty-five of our smaller mini guards. Please be advised that this could vary based on the user’s application. Novaflex MR-150 is a sealant, not an adhesive and cannot be used to glue down polycarbonate snow guards.

There shouldn't be any roof leaks when a snow guard system is installed correctly. To avoid any possible leaks, you should ensure you are using screws with neoprene washers. We recommend using Novaflex Metal Roof Sealant around snow guard base and cover all screw holes to provide a watertight leak free seal. Many choose not to drill any new holes in their roof for snow guards. They will therefore decide to use a glue-down snow guard retention system attached by using Surebond SB-190 adhesive.

When snow accumulates, steeper roof pitches typically experience a faster and more powerful snow slide. Consequently, additional snow guards are frequently required on steep-slope roofs to balance the weight and stop snow avalanches. The guards are typically placed closer together on steeper roofs, but they could be placed farther apart on roofs with shallower slopes.

1. If available, the first place to look would be the plans for your building.

• Typically, the elevation drawings and the roof plan both include the roof pitch. You have a few choices for measuring this dimension if accessing the roof is not an option and you feel comfortable doing so.

2. A digital or analog pitch/slope locator tool that can be rested on the panel to measure pitch is available at many hardware stores. This is also how some smartphone app’s function. Not to mention, a measuring tape may be used to find the rise and run.

The installation of a snow guard is a relatively straightforward procedure. However, we recommend finding a qualified local metal roofing contractor who is accustomed to walking on steel roofs and familiar with regional building codes and recommended snow retention techniques. Being the manufacturer, we neither install snow guards nor recommend any contractor.

If you choose to do the work yourself, we recommend using caution and making sure you have the appropriate safety gear. Such as investing in shoes designed especially for walking on roofs and a personal anchoring system. Also please check with local building ordinances to make sure that you are following local building codes.

General roof guard spacing on metal roofs.

The distance between individual snow guards or snow retention devices placed on a roof is referred to as snow guard spacing. The purpose of snow guards is to stop large sheets of snow and ice from sliding off a roof, which may harm people and property below. For snow guards to be effective and for the building's overall security, they must be spaced correctly.

The ideal distance between snow guards can vary based on several variables, such as:
1. Roof Pitch: To prevent the sudden release of snow and ice buildup, steeper roofs usually require closer snow guard spacing and multiple rows going up the roof.
2. Snow Load: A region's anticipated snowfall total is a major factor. Strong snowfall may necessitate tighter spacing and different configurations of snow guards ascending the roof.
3. Roof Material: The spacing may vary depending on the kind of roofing material used. For instance, metal roofs might need more rows and closer spacing than asphalt shingles.
4. The roof Layout: The position of snow guards can be impacted by the roof's architectural characteristics, such as valleys, dormers, and other elements.
5. Local Building Codes: Certain regions have building codes or regulations that outline the specifications for snow guards, including their spacing.

Typically, snow guards are positioned uniformly throughout the roof, typically in staggered rows, to better distribute the weight of the ice and snow. The typical snow guard spacing ranges from 12 and 24 inches, spaced both vertically and horizontally along the roof, though it can vary based on the variables already mentioned. Remember that installing snow guards should only be done by qualified experts who are familiar with regional building codes and recommended snow retention techniques. Snow guards that are positioned or spaced incorrectly may cause damage to or failure of the roof.

Notice of Disclaimer

These pages may only be used to create plans that make use of the components and goods manufactured by JSP Manufacturing on roofs with less than 45PSF ground snow load, and only as a quick reference for estimating snow guard quantities and placement.

The user bears all responsibility for determining whether the product is appropriate for the use in which it is intended and for handling, use and installation of the product. Regarding quotations, layouts, and/or spacing guidelines provided they are to be used as a quick reference and for informational purposes only, JSP Manufacturing shall not be responsible for damages due to installation or usage of products.