Answering common snow retention questions

By Emma Peterson. 

Discover how S-5!’s solutions offer safety, function and style for roofs in any cold-weather region. 

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Megan Ellsworth sits down with David Stahler to talk about the significance of snow retention systems. These systems are crucial roofing accessories for areas that receive heavy snow loads in the winter. Without proper retention systems, home and business owners run the risk of having snow build up and then avalanche off of their roof. Such situations cost hundreds of millions in property damage and can lead to many injuries or even fatalities every year. 

David, who is the director of sales at S-5!®, knows the risks related to snow avalanches all too well, which is why he stopped by to emphasize how installing a snow retention system that has been engineered for your specific roof can minimize avalanche hazards, decrease your liability and even save lives. He walked listeners through some of the most common questions he encounters in his work.  

Does my building really need snow retention? 

Oftentimes, David has been asked questions about what types of buildings really need snow retention. For example, he has people come to him asking about storage buildings and barns. His answer, “If you don't have any people or equipment or nothing underneath that's going to get damaged, then it may be a needless expense. But if that barn or building is something you really care about or has workers going in and out of it, it’s worthwhile.”  

Why are snow retention systems so expensive? 

Snow guards, like any roofing accessory, are not free. This can be a hesitation point for many home and building owners who have already spent a lot of money installing a new roof. But these systems are something that pays for themselves in the long run. David explained, “Snow guards aren't free, but neither is fixing a damaged roof or dealing with a lawsuit. And if you hurt somebody, you're going to feel a lot worse anyway.”  

By installing snow guards, not only are you investing in protecting those around your building, but you are also protecting your investment – the new roof you just paid for.  

My roof isn’t expensive and repairing it won’t be bad, so why do I need snow retention? 

Snow retention systems aren’t just about protecting the roof they’re on. It is about protecting the people and property around and below it. David explained, “Just because your roof didn't break the bank doesn't mean you want your gutters and other features breaking under snow. And if you don’t have snow retention, you still open yourself up to the same liability regardless of the cost of the roof.” 

Can I get snow retention systems that don't detract from curb appeal? 

While the snow retention systems of years past might have only come in a few select color and design options, the color ranges today are far superior! David shared, “S-5!'s got you covered. We make color matching snow retention systems and for any other systems we make, they can be aftermarket painted or powder coated. That way your snow bars can be functional and look fabulous.” 

How much snow necessitates getting a snow retention system? 

While snow retention is far more important for areas that experience heavy snowfall in the winter, it can be a good idea to install it even in areas that experience less intense winter weather. David explained, “Even if you live in an area that doesn't traditionally get a lot of snow, like Dallas or Fort Worth, they still get ice and snow storms every so often. If you've got a metal roof and you have a chance of getting that weather, a little prevention can save you a lot of headaches when the weather takes a turn for the worst.” 

Read the transcript or Listen to the episode to learn more about snow retention and how S-5! can help you find the right system for your roof.