FAQ
- What is Snow Retention?
- Why Use Snow Retention?
- Will the added weight damage my roof?
- Can I Install my own snow brackets?
- Is there a building code for snow retention?
- How many snow brackets do I really need?
- How can I find an approved installer?
Q: What is snow retention?
A: Snow Retention is a term used to describe any number of devices attached to a roof that prevent snow and ice from falling from the roof. There are 2 common types of snow retention: Snow Guards (also called ’snow clips’, ’snow cleats’, ’snow jacks’, ‘ice guards’, and many others) and Snow Fences (also called ’snow rail’ and ’snow bar’). TRA-MAGE has developed its’ own brand of Snow Guard called a Snow Bracket™ and also offers 2 types of Snow Fence: Deck Mount Snow Fence and Clamp On Snow Fence.
Q: Why use snow retention?
A: Snow Retention systems are widely implemented in Europe as a means of preventing roof damage due to the sliding of snow and ice masses that accumulate on roofs during winter months in alpine regions. As snow accumulates and is retained on a roof, it serves as an insulating blanket to promote energy efficiency. Furthermore, by retaining snow on the roof of a building and allowing even snow melt-off, injuries to residents/guests and property below the roof of a building can be avoided, saving money and limiting the possibility of personal loss.
DANGER TO RESIDENTS
Sliding snow and ice on a roof is a constant threat to the safety of residents and guests as well as the home itself.
ROOF DAMAGE
When snow and ice masses slide off a roof, costly damage occurs.
LIMITED ACCESS
Entrance to buildings can be blocked by snow and ice that falls from a roof.
DAMAGE/INJURY
People and property can be struck by snow and ice falling from the roof. Property damage and injuries, even deaths can occur when snow is not properly retained on a roof.
Q: Will the added weight damage my roof?
A: In the 1970’s the building code was updated so that any house was built to withstand a 50 year storm scenario – meaning that the structure would be strong enough to withstand the stresses that the worst storm in 50 years would bring. With this type of construction, roof structures can withstand great loads and are engineered to withstand the 50 year storm. By adding Snow Brackets™ Snow Guards to your roof structure and keeping the snow on the roof, no additional engineering or shoring up of the structure should be necessary. It is, however, best to consult your local engineer to determine the individual roofs structural stability.
Q: Can I Install my own snow brackets?
A: TRA-MAGE recommends that you work with a certified roofing contractor when installing snow retention devices. In most cases the installation process is quite simple, but for safety and equipment reasons roofing contractors are better prepared and qualified to install the devices. It is possible to install snow retention on your own and TRA-MAGE will provide the installation details necessary, but owners do so at their own risk.
Q: Is there a building code for snow retention?
A: Currently their are no national adopted building codes for snow retention. Some codes do exist on local levels but this case is rare. This fact makes it critical to work with a reputable manufacturer that knows how to properly engineer and design a snow retention system. TRA-MAGE is pushing for ICC to implement a national code for basic snow retention application. Rest assured at TRA-MAGE we only manufacture the highest quality snow retention devices, offering no plastic or adhered devices.
Q: How many snow brackets do I really need?
A: TRA-MAGE can help determine the proper layout for snow retention devices based on certain job site criteria:
- Ground Snow Load (GSL) – The GSL can be determined by your local building department or licensed structural engineer. This information is critical in determining the weight of snow on the roof. TRA-MAGE recommends, along with most building departments, the use of the 50-yr storm data or more conservative numbers.
- Roof Slope/Pitch : The roof slope greatly affects the amount of force applied to the snow retention devices. Shallower slopes absorb more of the load down into the building structure, where steep slopes transfer more load to snow retention devices.
- Roof Material: The roof material affects snow retention in 2 ways. First, certain types of roofing have more friction than others (i.e. Metal vs. Asphalt Shingle). Second, the type of roofing affects how the snow retention is positioned on the roof (i.e. Wood Shakes with an exposure of 10″ must be spaced vertically by some increment of 10 inches)
- Roof Substrate: Snow retention devices are only as strong as the substrate they are fastened to. i.e. A snow bracket fastened down into rigid insulation offers almost no strength. Likewise, snow retention devices mounted in 3/4″ plywood will be much stronger than the same devices mounted in 7/16″ OSB.
It is recommend that you contact a TRA-MAGE representative with the needed information listed above to determine the proper number of snow brackets needed for your roof. TRA-MAGE will put together a proposed plan and quote for your review for FREE! Some additional information may be needed to provide a snow bracket layout.
Download the Pre Job Survey / Quote Request form here
Q: How can I find an approved installer?
A: TRA-MAGE maintains lists of approved installers in your areas. Call or email TRA-MAGE and we can help you find a local installer.