"A properly installed and well-maintained snow guard system can help save lives and prevent property damage," says Brian Cross, operations manager here at Rocky Mountain Snow Guards. "Accumulating snow on roofs can come sliding off in one mass sheet. This is dangerous for people, pets and landscaping below."
Check and Double-Check
Cross recommends that homeowners with snow guards or a snow retention system have the installation inspected annually to ensure the system remains properly secured and functioning as designed.
"If your area has seen snow activity during the past winter months, then contact your roofer to conduct a complete inspection of your snow retention system and roof," says Cross. "You want to make certain that accumulating snowfalls have not moved any of your snow guards. Additionally, while on the roof, your contractor can inspect your roof and make sure everything is solidly in place to perform at its peak during the coming year."
What are Snow Guards?
Snow guards are sturdy pieces designed to be attached to a roof, usually in specific patterns, to help prevent snow from sliding down in a “snow blanket” as the snow melts. The snow guards can be made of metal, copper, aluminum, plastic (though not recommended), or even rubber. They can be attached at the time a roof is installed or retrofitted years after the roof is in place.
As snow retention experts, we here at Rocky Mountain Snow Guards manufacture snow guards and create plans for where they should be placed on a roof for maximum benefit. We take into consideration the areas with the most potential exposure where people least wish to see snow drop off in large masses, such as door entryways, driveways, walkways, and decks. We also use scientific configurations related to the roof slope, roof snow load, and other factors. Even the type of roofing material (such as asphalt, composite, metal, or slate roofing) factors into the calculations.
Avalanche Experts Weigh In
In a statement from the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) in support of National Snow Guards Safety Month, Theresa Blake Graven, Public Information Officer, said, “Roof avalanches pose a serious risk every year in mountain communities. It’s critical to stay aware of snow-loaded roofs, minimize time spent beneath them, and keep a shovel nearby in case of an emergency.”
The CAIC reports that 1,095 avalanches have been recorded in Colorado so far this season. Over the past 30 years, five people have died in roof avalanches in Colorado, with many more injuries and close calls documented. The most recent fatal roof avalanche in Colorado occurred on March 16, 2023, when a father and two children were buried. Tragically, one child died.
CAIC advises people to watch for thick snow buildup on roofs, avoid spending time directly beneath roof edges, and keep entryways clear.
The Cost of Saying No to Snow Guards
Snow guards are all about being proactive in keeping people and property safe from falling snow and ice. In addition, the snow guards can help reduce ice dams and gutter damage during severe winter weather.
Not having a well-installed snow guard system can lead to catastrophic damage, potential injuries, liability claims, and insurance problems. Being proactive and having snow guards can keep you from paying avalanche-related insurance claims, repairing damaged roofing, and constantly worrying during the winter season. Homeowners can gain peace of mind, along with knowing their property is protected, by installing and maintaining a snow guard system.
Homeowner Resources
- Snow Retention FAQ
- Q&A - Do I Really Need Snow Guards?
- Retrofitting Snow Guards on Your Roof
- No Maintenance Guarantee on Snow Retention Products
- Podcast: Snow Retention 101
For specific snow retention questions, please call 877-414-7606 or email info@rockymountainsnowguards.com
