Following a long period of massive snowfall, who's not happy to be able to see the sun shining and melting the last remnants of the cold winter? Although it's an exciting appearance, melting snow could create more issues than you realize. Roof snow guards are an excellent investment. They keep snow on the roof so that when it starts melting, it won't fall down in a single swoop that could result in damage to your roof, lighting, gutters, and any other objects that are in the path of the snow avalanche.

Read on to learn the basics about these guards and if they're the best option to protect your house. There are details on kinds of ice and snow guards for roofs made of metal and the possibility of installation as an undertaking you can complete yourself.

Do You Need Snow Guards?

The question of whether installing snow guards is sensible is dependent on where you live and the kind of roof that you own. If you reside in a region that has significant snowfall, they're an excellent idea regardless of the kind of roof you've got, due to the fact that the weight of snow will likely cause issues once it starts to melt.

On the other hand, if you are in an area with light or less frequent snowfalls, the question of whether or not snow guards are necessary is contingent on the kind of roof you're using. For a roof made of metal, the use of snow guards is beneficial since the smooth surface makes it possible for snow to fall down as the weather begins to turn warm. If you have a roof with shingles, it is possible that you will require snow guards based on the degree of steepness. The steeper your roof, the higher chance there will be an avalanche in the aftermath of the storm. Guardrails and snowplows can stop this.

How Snow Guards Work?

In a snowstorm, as snow builds up over the roofing, it could be swollen by ice and remain there for a while. But, as temperatures increase, the snow and ice start to melt. This could cause huge amounts of snow to fall away from your roof in a single motion, which could cause damage. When you put up snow guards, they help keep the snow and ice in place, ensuring that it doesn't just suddenly fall down as the weather warms. This allows it to slide down into smaller pieces that aren't damaging or completely melt, permitting the water to flow through your gutters.

Snow Guard Installation: DIY or Professional?

The decision of whether or not homeowners are required to install snow guards on their own is contingent on the type of snow guard they select and also how steep your roof is. Though pad-style snow protectors are easier to install than other kinds but if you're not cautious, they could cause gaps in your roofing which can lead to leaks. Bar and fence-style snow guards can be difficult to put in, particularly when you have a sloped roof, and it might be best to employ a professional for the task.

If you'd like a discussion about your roofing plan with an expert, we can assist you.