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 cold winter weather? While it's an exciting view, melting snow can 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 does not fall down in a single swoop and result in damages to your roof lighting, gutters, lights, as well as any other objects which happen to be within the path of the snow avalanche.

You can read on to find out the basics about these guards and if they're the best option you can make for the home of your dreams. There are details on ice and snow guards for roofs made of steel 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 contingent on the location you live in and what kind of roof you own. If you reside in a region that has an abundance of snow, they're recommended regardless of the type of roof you have because the weight of snow will likely cause problems when it starts to melt.

However, if your area has lighter or less frequent snowfalls, the question of whether or not snow guards are necessary is contingent on the kind of roof you're using. If you have a metal roof, they are beneficial since the smooth surface makes it possible for snow to easily slide down when the weather begins to turn warm. If your roof is shingled, there is a possibility of needing snow guards, based on the degree of steepness. The steeper your roof, the higher chance there will be an avalanche in the aftermath of an event. Guardrails and snowplows can stop this.

How Snow Guards Work?

When a storm is occurring and snow builds up over the roofing, it may be swollen by ice and then remain in place for a time. But, as temperatures increase, the snow and ice start to melt. This could cause huge amounts of snow to fall off your roof in a single motion which could cause damage. When you install snow guards, they help keep the snow and ice in place, ensuring that it doesn't completely slide down once the temperature rises. This allows it to slide down into smaller pieces that aren't damaging or completely melt, which allows the water to flow through your gutters.

Snow Guard Installation: DIY or Professional?

If homeowners should install snow guards themselves is dependent on the kind they pick and the slope of your roof. While pad-style snow guards are more straightforward to install than other kinds in certain circumstances, if you're not careful, there could be cracks in the roof which can lead to leaks. Bar and fence-style snow guards aren't easy to install, particularly in the case of a steep roof, and it might be best to get a professional to do the task.

If you'd like to talk about your roof plans with an expert, we can assist.