Considering local building codes and requirements is always important for any structure you're involved in managing, and one area that clients often ask us about here is that of snow guards and other snow fall protection products. In particular, a common question from people in high-snowfall areas: Are snow guards required by code for my building?
At Supply Maverick, a division of Mid Michigan Metal Sales, we're proud to offer a wide range of snow guards for metal roofs, plus roofing screws and other metal roofing fasteners to ensure your roof is protected and secure all year round. Does local code require you to have snow guards on your roof if you live in a high-snow area? If not, what are some of the reasons why you might consider snow guards anyway? Here's everything you need to know.
The short answer here: There are very few areas of the United States where snow guards are actually required by local code, and this is often due to localized conditions that are not common throughout the rest of the country. Generally speaking, snow guards are only required in areas where large amounts of snowfall pose a significant threat to individuals or structures.
There are several key reasons why snow guards may be required in certain jurisdictions:
Again, though, this is extremely rare. Even in many places that are known for heavy snowfall, such as the Northeastern US, snow guards are not required by law. However, that doesn't mean you shouldn't consider them for your building.
For those who are just learning about snow guards, you may be wondering what exactly these products do. Simply put, snow guards are installed on the roof to hold back or break up large amounts of snow, preventing it from sliding off the roof all at once and causing damage.
There are several different types of snow guards available, including individual brackets and continuous rails. The type of guard you need will depend on factors such as the slope of your roof, the amount of snowfall in your area, and the type of roofing material being used.
Even if snow guards are not actively required by code, they can still offer protection in the event of an accident. In areas that experience heavy snowfall, property owners may be held liable for any injuries or damages caused by snow falling off their roofs.
By installing snow guards, you are taking proactive measures to prevent potential accidents and reduce your liability. This can save you from costly legal disputes and insurance claims in the future.
Furthermore, snow guards can help protect your building's investment. Without them, heavy snowfall can cause serious damage to your roof and other parts of the structure, leading to costly repairs or even replacement.
Considering all these benefits, it's clear that even if snow guards are not required by code in your area, they are still a valuable addition to any building in a high-snowfall region. At Supply Maverick, we offer a variety of high-quality and durable snow guards to fit any type of roof and meet your specific needs.
If you've determined that snow guards are a wise choice for your building, there are a few key factors to consider when choosing the right type and style:
While snow guards are not typically required by code in most parts of the US, they offer many benefits such as safety, property protection, and potential liability prevention. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, it's wise to consider installing snow guards on your roof to protect your investment and those around you. At Supply Maverick, we have the expertise and selection to help you choose the right snow guards for your specific needs. Contact us today to learn more about any of our products or services!
