By Anna Lockhart.  

Easy to install and designed with durability in mind, the EZ Clamp-On Snow Guards are an optimal solution for standing seam metal roof applications! 

The experts at TRA Snow & Sun understand the value and importance of investing in snow retention systems on properties that face significant ice and snowfall. Each year, many people face property damage, life-threatening injuries and even death from glaciated snow falling from the roof due to little to no proper safety measures in place. To prevent such tragedies, TRA Snow & Sun has dedicated their efforts towards creating sturdy and dependable retention systems that not only work but maintain the lifespan of metal roofs while doing so. When looking to add safety features to roofs in climates with heavy snow and ice, non-penetrative materials are best. 

The EZ Clamp-On Snow Guard is their product designed to do just that: protect the roof, ground and beings that might otherwise be in the path of heavy snowfall while also keeping aesthetics and roof integrity in mind. Not only does it offer superior support for the building owners, but it also offers easy installation for contractors.  

EZ Clamp-On Snow Guards are non-penetrating snow retention solutions for standing seam metal roofs designed for quick installation and superior performance. Available in 1"–1.5" and 1.75", the EZ Clamp-On is an ideal snow retention solution due to its compatibility with a variety of rib types (double lock, single lock, snap lock and others) and durable material makeup (zinc coated steel), which meets ASTM A36 standards. Compatible with a C21Z one-bar system, which is manufactured in a C21Z (one pipe system) and C22Z (two pipe system). 

In addition to its strength and durability, being able to quickly and safely install these systems is a key factor for contractors looking to meet their customers’ needs and complete more jobs in a timely manner. Its EZ install design not only protects the roof’s integrity as no penetrations are required on the roof, but it also has a removable snap-top for fast tube placement. Compared to other, more involved and time-consuming system setups, the EZ Clamp-Ons saves labor time and costs, which is a win for contractors and building owners alike!  

For the aesthetically minded home or building owner, the snow guards won’t put a dent in their roof’s looks: EZ Clamp-Ons are powder coated and come in a variety of colors, making them an easy and seamless addition to any modern metal roof that will last! And for contractors seeking a durable, labor-saving solution, the EZ Clamp-On provides faster installation and more opportunities to complete more jobs. 

Learn more about the EZ Clamp-On Snow Guards from TRA Snow & Sun.

By The Coffee Shops®. 

Roofing education starts with understanding the why. 

Contractor training is most effective when it helps crews understand not only how products are installed, but why they perform the way they do. As workforce development continues to be one of the roofing industry's biggest challenges, contractors face both labor shortages and the need to develop skilled talent. In a recent episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards sat down with Mindy Dahlquist, business development manager at TRA Snow and Sun, to discuss how hands-on contractor education can help bridge that gap. 

According to Mindy, training is no longer optional for contractors looking to build knowledgeable, confident teams. "I feel like right now labor is obviously an issue across the board for contractors, whether it's roofing or not. But roofing contractors specifically are struggling with the labor force and then also the talent that's coming in within that labor force," she said. 

Education plays a critical role in helping crews develop skills before stepping onto a roof and providing continued learning opportunities as they gain experience. But training goes beyond simply delivering information. "So much of it is situational," Mindy explained. "I can sit and teach a class as long as you want, but that doesn't mean that that's going to be applied to that next specific job." 

That reality has shaped the training programs Mindy delivers throughout the United States and Canada. Rather than presenting the same material to every audience, she customizes each session based on the contractor's specialties and the products they use. 

Over time, she has discovered that even experienced installers often benefit from a deeper understanding of product function and performance. "It will also make their conversations for sales with a homeowner or with a business owner, so much simpler as well," Mindy said. "Then they're just having the conversation from what they know rather than trying to sell them anything." 

For contractors, that knowledge translates into stronger customer communication, improved installation practices and greater confidence on the jobsite. As workforce challenges continue, education remains one of the most valuable investments roofing companies can make in their teams. 

As training programs evolve, the next step is ensuring installers receive not just information, but meaningful hands-on experience that reinforces what they've learned in the classroom. 

Listen to the full podcast or Watch the Recording to learn more about workforce development and contractor training. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Join TRA Snow and Sun's Mindy Dahlquist as she explores the technologies and design strategies helping roofing professionals improve performance, longevity and safety in snow-prone regions. 

Every year, Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA) brings together leaders and experts from across the industry to hos education sessions at the Western Roofing Expo (WRE). These expert sessions cover everything from political and regulatory updates to technical installation trainings. 

One such technical session at this year’s WRE will be hosted by TRA Snow and Sun’s Mindy Dahlquist. In her session, which will be on Tuesday, 9/29 at 10:15 a.m., Mindy will dive into “Designing Durable Cold-Climate Roofs Across the Western U.S.”  

During this session, Mindy will explore the role of “snow retention systems and ventilated roof assemblies in improving roof performance, safety and longevity in cold and mixed-climate regions of the Western United States.” She will not only guide attendees through the different snow retention solutions and systems available, but also use real-world examples to highlight design and installation best practices.  

Perfect for all professionals, from roofing contractors and architects to facility managers and inspectors, attendees will walk away knowing:  

• How climate- and region-specific risks relate to snow build up, ice dams and freeze-thaw cycles. 
• Why snow retention systems are beneficial to steep-slope roofing applications. 
• Best practice design strategies and the basic principles of snow retention systems. 
• Strategies for evaluating ventilated roof assemblies and their role in moisture control and thermal performance 
• How to recognize common snow retention installation errors and how to avoid them. 

Want to attend Mindy’s presentation? Make sure you’re registered for the 2026 Western Roofing Expo and block your calendar on Tuesday, 9/29 from 10:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 

By Alex Tolle, The Coffee Shops®.

Industry professionals can learn practical strategies for strengthening communication, mentorship and collaboration across generations.

An upcoming webinar from the Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA), “Young Roofing Professionals: Bridging the Age Gap in Roofing,” will explore how professionals from different generations can collaborate to build stronger teams, improve communication and support long-term success. This session, which will be held Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 10 a.m. PT, is designed for emerging professionals interested in learning from experienced industry leaders as well as managers looking for ways to better engage the next generation of roofing talent.

The webinar will examine how companies can turn generational differences into competitive advantages through collaboration and mentorship. Attendees will learn about strengthening communication, building knowledge-sharing opportunities and embracing technology while preserving proven industry practices. The discussion will also explore how collaboration can contribute to a culture of growth and leadership.

Presenting the session will be Mindy Dahlquist, business development manager at TRA Snow and Sun, and Megan Ellsworth, multimedia director at RoofersCoffeeShop®. The two will use their own experience and perspectives to shine a light on the value of bridging the age gap to help valuable knowledge move between generations while giving newer professionals room to contribute and grow.

Overall, this session promises to leave attendees with strategies for bringing different perspectives together in order to create stronger connections among employees and prepare teams to move forward together.

Learn more about bridging generational differences in roofing and register for the webinar.

TRA Snow & Sun has implemented an updated price list, effective June 1, 2026. As part of this update, we're pleased to announce that pricing on our steel Clamp-On snow retention systems has decreased. If you received a quote for one of our steel Clamp-On products before June 1, we encourage you to contact us for a revised quote so you can take advantage of the new, lower pricing.

As always, we remain committed to providing consistent pricing, high-quality products, and the support you need to deliver reliable snow retention solutions. If you have any questions or would like an updated quote, please don't hesitate to contact our team. We appreciate your continued partnership and thank you for your business.

Fill out the snow retention form to receive a free layout!

Explore lower prices on TRA's snow retention solutions.

The C21 EZ Clamp-On Snow Guard from TR Snow and Sun is a non-penetrating snow retention solution designed for standing seam metal roofs. Engineered for quick installation, it securely clamps to the roof seam without compromising the roof system or manufacturer warranty. Built to handle heavy snow loads, the C21 EZ helps prevent dangerous snow slides while maintaining a clean, professional appearance. Available in a variety of finishes to complement the roof, it's an ideal choice for both residential and commercial projects where reliable snow management is essential.

Used on: Standing Seam Metal Roofs

• Available for all rib types including: Double Lock, Single Lock, Snap Lock
• Designed for 1.0″ tube (see small tube product data sheet)
• Allows for full installation without any penetration of the roof surface
• Powder coated to match roofing material colors

Learn more about the EZ clamp!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

This educational session in Salt Lake City focuses on protecting people, property and roofing professionals in high snow regions. 

RoofersCoffeeShop® and MetalCoffeeShop® recently attended a powerful and eye-opening snow retention training hosted by TRA Snow and Sun at the AGC of Utah Training Center in Salt Lake City. Roofing contractors from across Utah and the western United States gathered to better understand one of the most dangerous and often underestimated risks in roofing, the weight and movement of snow. 

The reality is simple and sobering. Snow is heavy. When it releases from a roof, it does not gently slide away, it can avalanche with devastating force. The training shared a striking example showing how quickly that weight adds up. In a 100 pound per square foot snow load scenario, just a small section of snow coming off a roof can weigh thousands of pounds. When that mass hits a person, the results can be catastrophic and often fatal. 

But the danger does not stop with human safety. Uncontrolled snow movement can rip gutters from the structure, tear off rooftop accessories, crush landscaping, destroy outdoor furniture and cause significant structural damage. For building owners, this means unexpected costs and liability. For contractors, it introduces a serious level of risk that cannot be ignored. 

Leading the training were Ben Anderson and Mindy Dahlquist, along with TRA teammates including Terry Anderson, founder and CEO, who shared the company’s history and answered questions. Their passion for engineered snow retention systems was evident throughout the day. They emphasized that snow retention is not an accessory, it is a critical part of a complete roofing system in any region that experiences significant snowfall. 

The training also featured Brava Roof Tile, who demonstrated how snow retention systems integrate with their premium roofing products. Their participation highlighted the importance of designing snow retention solutions that work seamlessly with different roofing materials, ensuring both performance and aesthetics. Seeing how snow retention interacts with synthetic roofing systems reinforced the need for a customized, engineered approach for every roof type. 

Also in attendance were leaders from key industry associations, including the Utah Roofing Contractors Association (URCA) and the Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA), represented by Kris Hitesman of Capitol Roofing Service. Their presence reinforced the importance of collaboration across the industry to promote best practices, safety and ongoing education. 

A key part of the training focused on specific product applications, including the proper use and installation of snow brackets and snow fences. Attendees learned when each system is appropriate, how they perform under load and how to correctly install them to maximize effectiveness. The TRA team also demonstrated the use of their specialized clamp systems for installing snow fences without compromising roof integrity. Another major takeaway was TRA’s deep commitment to testing. The team shared how they rigorously test their systems to ensure the highest levels of performance in real-world conditions. Their approach goes beyond standard requirements, with a focus on making sure every product meets and exceeds building codes and delivers reliable, engineered protection. This dedication to testing reinforces confidence for contractors, architects and building owners alike. 

The training focused on three key areas, proper engineering, correct installation and effective communication with building owners. Contractors learned that every roof in a high snow area should be evaluated for snow retention and that systems must be designed based on load calculations, roof design and site conditions. Guesswork is not acceptable when lives and property are at stake. Equally important was the discussion around liability. Contractors were reminded that when snow avalanches off a roof, building owners often pursue legal action against everyone involved in the project. This includes manufacturers, designers and especially the installing contractor. One of the strongest takeaways was the need to include snow retention in every proposal and contract. If an owner chooses not to include it, contractors should require a formal sign-off acknowledging the risk. This step is critical for protecting roofing professionals from future claims. Beyond risk mitigation, the training also highlighted the opportunity for contractors to build stronger relationships with their customers. By educating owners on the importance of snow retention, contractors position themselves as trusted advisors, not just installers. This creates ongoing sales opportunities and reinforces the value of quality roofing systems that perform in real-world conditions.

Adding a bit of fun to the day, the TRA team also handed out custom trucker hats with unique branded badges, a small but memorable touch that reflected their strong culture and connection to the contractor community. Demonstrating a strong commitment to education and safety for the entire industry, the training was live streamed through TRA’s YouTube channel and will be available on demand through both MetalCoffeeShop and RoofersCoffeeShop YouTube channels as well as within TRA’s directories. This extended access ensures that contractors across the country can benefit from the training, reinforcing TRA’s dedication to making critical safety education widely available. For contractors working in snow-prone regions, the message is clear. Snow retention is not optional. It is essential. By understanding the risks, specifying engineered systems and educating customers, roofing professionals can protect their businesses while delivering roofs that truly perform. 

To learn more about engineered snow retention systems and how to integrate them into your roofing projects, visit TRA Snow and Sun or explore their directories on RoofersCoffeeShop® and MetalCoffeeShop® and view the full training on demand. 

By Jenny Yu.  

Learn how a roofing consultant’s search for answers led to a new standard in snow retention engineering. 

What began as a roofing consultant’s challenge has evolved into one of the industry’s leading voices in snow retention engineering. At TRA Snow & Sun’s 3rd Annual Snow Retention Educational Seminar, Heidi J. Ellsworth had a chance to speak with founder Terry Anderson about how decades of field experience, research and innovation shaped the company’s origin story. 

Terry’s journey started while consulting for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where he was tasked with solving widespread failures in tile roofing systems exposed to snow and ice. “I found out right away that in snow country, when snow and ice moved on tile roofs, it broke them up, especially in the valleys and at the eaves,” Terry said. 

With no clear answers from manufacturers in the United States, Anderson took his search overseas. “They didn’t know the answer either,” he said. “I was referred to England to talk to Dr. Nigel Cherry, and from there I went to Norway, Germany and Austria to see how they handled tile roofs in snow climates.” 

What he discovered reshaped his approach to roofing design. European systems relied on engineered snow retention strategies based on roof slope, snow load and run length — a stark contrast to the methods commonly used in the U.S. “It dawned on me immediately there was no engineering behind this at all,” Terry said. “People were just saying, ‘Put two rows of snow brackets on,’ and that was it.” 

Determined to bring science into the equation, Terry began developing and testing snow retention systems with Brigham Young University. “I designed and patented my first snow bracket with six tests and all different types. I didn’t believe in testing my bracket just by itself,” Terry shared. “We engineered everything from the fail point of the roof system — that makes us different than others. We’ve been a success ever since.” 

That focus on engineering and safety became the foundation of TRA Snow & Sun. Over time, Terry’s work expanded beyond product development into advocacy, driven by real-world consequences. “When snow slides off and hits someone, it’s preventable with proper engineering,” Terry stated. “That’s what I’ve been trying to promote.” 

Today, TRA continues to educate contractors through training, tools and engineered layouts designed to improve safety and professionalism across the industry. 

Watch the full interview to hear more of Terry's story and learn how TRA Snow & Sun’s snow retention can protect lives and property.

In this MetalTalk ™, Karen Edwards is joined by TRA Snow and Sun’s Business Development Manager, Mindy Dahlquist, and Technical Director, Lane Gardner, as they pull back the curtain on how today’s snow retention systems are engineered, tested and refined for real-world performance on metal roofs. TRA Snow & Sun walks contractors, builders and manufacturers through the fast-moving world of product development, from field feedback and manufacturer partnerships to smarter designs that install faster and hold stronger. It’s a look at the innovation shaping safer, more reliable roof systems across the industry. 

Listen to the MetalTalk.

Watch the MetalTalk.

By Jenny Yu.  

Mindy Dahlquist of TRA Snow and Sun shares how and why to bring young people into the industry. 

Everyone’s career journey has to start somewhere, and no one does it all on their own. For Mindy Dahlquist, business development manager at TRA Snow and Sun, her journey started in trade school and developed with the aid and support of experienced adults in the field. 

“My entire goal with trade school was to have some type of license or certificate to make sure that when I walked out of school, I wasn’t going to be homeless,” Mindy shared in this episode of Roofing Road Trips^®. But attending trade school was not enough by itself. “I needed guidance and help, so having an adult come into that school and dedicate their time was so important. It gave me an introduction, an entrance as soon as I left the vocational school.” 

Now, Mindy is a champion for young roofers and the volunteers who give their time to usher the next generation into the industry. TRA Snow and Sun works with the Let’s Build Construction Careers Camp (LBCC) for girls, a hands-on learning experience that introduces middle- and high-school-aged girls to the trades. Volunteering, as it turns out, is a win-win situation. It provides needed guidance for the youth while also creating a cohort of competent, confident individuals ready to enter the field. 

“There is such a large number of people who are retiring in this industry. If we are not replacing these people early, how are they going to learn from the masters?” Mindy posed. “Find these young students who are already in trade schools and get them involved in your business early so once they graduate, they know the terminology. They’re ready. They’ve been standing at that starting line, ready to take off running.” 

Furthermore, sharing your knowledge with people who need it is a rewarding act in itself. “We all want to have purpose in our lives. Being able to provide that purpose and mentor [young people] is amazing,” Mindy expressed.  

For contractors who are concerned about the future of the industry, put your time where it’s most fruitful: getting involved with your local vocational school and offering your time, expertise, wisdom and materials to help prepare the next generation. “Once you get somewhere worth being, turn around and give somebody a hand as they take that step up,” Mindy said. She also shared a message for the up-and-comers: “Do not avoid the older generations. Go out of your way to get to know them, ask questions and be interested.” 

Read the previous article in this series or Listen to the podcast to learn about more ways to get involved in your local community and build the next generation of roofers.