Snow retention strength starts at the seam

By The Coffee Shops®.

Learn why an effective snow retention system begins with the roof panel, seam profile and a properly engineered attachment.

Snow and ice can behave differently on smooth metal roofing surfaces, creating potential risks near entryways, walkways, equipment and landscaping. That looming threat makes snow retention an important consideration during the roof-design process, rather than an accessory to address after installation.

In an upcoming MetalTalk™, Karen Edwards sits down with Mindy Dahlquist of TRA Snow and Sun to explore what makes a snow retention system work on a metal roof.

From seam compatibility and clamp strength to system configuration and engineering, this conversation will help contractors understand why successful snow retention starts with the roof assembly itself. Mindy will explain how roof height, slope, geometry and design snow load can influence system requirements and placement.

The conversation will take a closer look at clamp-on systems for standing seam metal roofs, including how clamps attach without penetrating the panels. Mindy will explain why seam shape, height, material and construction affect clamp compatibility and holding strength. She will also discuss the importance of verified attachment values and why a single strength rating cannot be applied to every metal roof.

Attendees will learn why adding a second or third bar does not automatically make a snow retention system stronger. Although additional bars may change a system’s appearance or configuration, they cannot compensate for a weak attachment point. The panel, seam and supporting roof assembly establish the foundation of the system, making accurate project information and proper engineering essential.

Mindy and Karen will also compare single-bar, multibar and pipe-style configurations, as well as deck-mounted options for corrugated, exposed-fastener and agricultural metal panels. Contractors will hear what information they should gather before requesting a system design, including the panel manufacturer and profile, roof dimensions, slope, building location and design snow load.

Whether you are specifying snow retention for a new metal roof or evaluating options for an existing assembly, this MetalTalk™ will help you move beyond assumptions and select a system based on the roof, the calculated load and the strength of the attachment.

Register for this MetalTalk™ to learn how roof profiles, attachment strength and engineering come together to create an effective snow retention system.