So, we've got a metal roof on our place, which I mostly love because it sheds snow like crazy and keeps things from piling up too much. But that's exactly the problem—when it does slide off, it comes down in these huge, heavy sheets and piles up right in front of the garage door. Last winter I nearly got flattened trying to shovel out my car. Not exactly my idea of winter fun.
I've seen some houses around town with these little bracket things or bars installed along the edges of their roofs. I'm guessing those help hold the snow back or at least slow it down? But I'm not sure how effective they really are, or if there are better options out there. Also, I'm kinda worried about damaging the roof or causing leaks if I install something incorrectly.
Has anyone here tried these brackets or bars on their own metal roof? Or maybe there's some other method or product you've used that works well? Honestly, I'm open to just about anything that keeps me from getting buried alive every time I step outside after a snowfall. If you've got tips or experiences (good or bad), I'd really appreciate hearing them.
"I've seen some houses around town with these little bracket things or bars installed along the edges of their roofs."
Yeah, those are snow guards, and they actually work pretty well if installed right. The idea is to break up the snow into smaller chunks so it doesn't come crashing down all at once. Just make sure you use the right screws and sealant to avoid leaks. Maybe test it out on a smaller section first to see how it holds up? Better safe than sorry...
Snow guards are solid, but honestly, pairing them with a bit of roof texture or coating helps even more. Metal roofs get super slick, so adding some friction can slow things down nicely. Learned that the hard way after my mailbox got flattened last winter...
Totally agree on the texture point—metal roofs are notoriously slippery. A few more things I've found helpful over the years:
- Angle matters a ton. Steeper roofs shed snow faster, so if you're still in planning stages, consider a gentler slope.
- Heat cables can be effective, especially near gutters and edges. They melt just enough snow to prevent huge slides.
- Placement of snow guards is key—don't skimp on quantity or spacing. Seen plenty of neighbors underestimate and regret it later.
- Also, pay attention to where snow piles up after sliding off. Landscaping or barriers can redirect snow away from driveways or mailboxes (sorry about yours, btw...).
Had a similar issue myself a few winters back; woke up to find my car buried under an avalanche of roof snow. Lesson learned the hard way here too.
Lesson learned the hard way here too.
Good points mentioned already, especially about the snow guards. I've inspected plenty of roofs after storms, and properly installed guards really do make a difference—just don't cheap out or space them too far apart, or you'll still get those mini avalanches. Heat cables can help too, but they're not always necessary if you get the guard placement right. Also, landscaping barriers are underrated; a well-placed shrub or fence can save your back (and your car) big time.
