SpacingTool.com Frequently Asked Snow Guard Questions
- What are SnoBlox-SnoJax snow guards and why are they needed?
- Why plastic instead of metal?
- What is the policy on price matching?
- What is important when choosing a snow guard system?
- Is spacing important?
- Should I use color matched or clear snow guards?
- Do you recommend mounting snow guards with tape?
- How do I find my roof pitch?
- How many snow guards does my roof require?
- I just want to protect a doorway, any suggestions?
- What is the curing time of the SureBond Everseal SB-190?
- What about cold weather adhesives?
- - How do I use the Shopping Cart?
- - How do I Check Out?
- Is snow guard installation a do it yourself project?
- How do I calculate my Snow Load?
- Can you clarify the recommended use of the SB-190 adhesive?
- More Questions?
What are snow guards and why are they needed?
SnoBlox-SnoJax is a water clear snow guard, molded of polycarbonate, which sits in the flat part of a metal roofing panel, where it holds the snow and ice in place until it can melt off gradually and safely. They provide ultimate protection for pedestrians and prevent property damage caused by sliding snow and ice. Polycarbonates like Lexan® are UV stabilized and virtually unaffected by weather.
Back to TopWhy plastic instead of metal?
The plastic snow guard came about in 1976, when the late Jack McMullen was receiving
negative feedback on metal snow guards in his own metal building business. In
addition to getting brittle and breaking in the cold, some of the metal guards
were causing severe dissimilar metal reactions that ended up eroding the metal
panel finish. In these cases the conductive liquid or electrolyte was rainwater.
During evaporation water becomes concentrated and water films become more conductive,
causing the initially benign water to create a dynamic galvanic effect which
causes rust. This phenomenon normally begins to occur when water gets trapped
in a crevice, such as under a screw or between the base of a metal guard and
the metal roof. Even water lying against the face of the metal guard and the
metal roof for an extended period time can initiate the deterioration process.
Painting the metal guards did not prove to be a reliable solution but it did
slow the galvanic reaction process down somewhat. We did find however that with
the painted metal snow guards, the corrosion would usually begin to form around
friction points and in time would continue to eat its way through the guard and
panel.
Generally speaking, the metal guards in each geographical location did not always
show identical failures but we did find that the greater the conductivity, the
more severe the galvanic effects were. After further research, we also found
that salt and industrial pollution significantly increased the conductivity of
water so galvanic effects were normally more severe near the coast or in heavy
industrial areas. The solution to this problem was the invention of UV stable
Clear Lexan™ polycarbonate SNOJAX snow guards! This idea was so unique; it earned
a patent in 1978 as the first non corrosive transparent snow retention device.
In conclusion, necessity became the mother of invention for three reasons:
1. If a metal snow guard makes contact with a dissimilar metal type roof panel,
a galvanic corrosive reaction (i.e. rust) can occur and prematurely eroded
and stain the roof. With plastic guards, this galvanic does not occur.
2.
In the cold weather, metal guards (especially cheap castings), may become
very
brittle,
fracture and break. Lexan does not get brittle in the cold.
3. The cosmetic appearance of a metal roof is altered due to the unsightly
metal guards that protrude from the roof surface and do not blend into
the skyline while looking up from the ground. The same holds true with
painted
color-matched
guards. Clear snow guards blend well with the sky and roof.
”Don’t take the
risk of ruining your beautiful metal roof with a non-compatible metal
snow guard!”
Back to TopWhat is the policy on price matching?
Our policy is very simple. We will match or beat any published or written Snow Guard price quote from an established reputable snow guard company. The main requirement is that we are matching Apples to Apples and not Apples to Raisins. The competitor’s snow guard must be of equal size to our product you are asking us to price match and made from the same 100 % Virgin Grade, UV stable, Clear, Lexan material used to manufacture our snow guards. We now have six different sizes of polycarbonate snow guards so chances are we have just what you are looking for in stock and ready to ship today. We offer the highest quality polycarbonate (plastic) snow guards with the longest proven track record, period! All our guards have been independently tested and guaranteed to work! Do not take chances on new untested designs with prices too good to be true, choose to buy from the originators of the plastic snow guard. We will not be undersold by cheap inferior imitations! Price matching policy is only applicable to snow guards.
Complete a Price Match Inquiry if you are interested in receiving a price match quote.
Back to TopWhat is important when choosing a snow guard system?
The height and shape of the face of a snow guard determines its ability to hold back layers of ice and snow. A snow guard needs to be mounted in the lowest portion of a roofing panel where the snow and ice actually moves. A flat, non-pointed surface should stand at least the height of the seam, creating a connected field, to hold snow and ice stationary until it can melt off safely. On a standing seam floating type roof, the snow guard should only be mounted with adhesive. This mounting method does not restrict normal thermal expansion and contraction of floating metal roof panels. It also provides a release feature that prevents panel damage. This completely eliminates any potential impairment to the seams. The smooth edges of the SnoBlox-SnoJax reduce the likelihood of personal injury during installation and normal roof maintenance
Back to TopIs spacing important?
The correct spacing of a snow guard system is as important as the proper selection
of materials that go into the design of a building. SnoBlox-SnoJax provides fast,
free spacing layouts based on the roof pitch, panel runs from the ridge to the
eave, panel widths and profile, and the snow load design of the building. Use the
Spacing Tool for an instant project estimate and price quote and spacing layout.
Back to TopShould I use color matched or clear snow guards?
This matter is one of preference. Clear snow guards are far less noticeable on a roof than colored ones. A color matched snow guard will act as a sundial and cast a shadow with the sun all day. Also, if the snow guard is not the same material as the roof, painted at the same time with the same type of paint, the rate of fading will be different. This will make the color matched snow guards more noticeable over time.
Back to TopDo you recommend mounting snow guards with tape?
Tapes have very little or no UV stabilization and tend to roll up underneath the snow guard when exposed to shear loads. In our many years of marketing snow guards, we have never seen tapes last very long. The adherent properties of the tape change with outside UV exposure over time. In our opinion tapes have always been just a temporary solution for mounting a snow guard in cold weather. We only recommend the use of SureBond SB-190 clear sealant adhesive for adhering SnoBlox-SnoJax.
Note: There is no long lasting adhesive available for copper or lead coated copper.
Back to TopHow do I find my roof pitch?
Using any builders level placed downhill anywhere on the roof. Measure out 12
inches on a horizontal level plane. Measure up from the roof surface to the 12
inch mark on the level. This number is then placed over 12 (i.e. 4/12). Congratulations
you have just measured the pitch of your roof.
Back to TopHow many snow guards does my roof require?
This question is best answered by using the Estimator link above. You will need to know the roof pitch as described above, a rafter length (or run) and width of your metal panel flats between the valleys. Please note where the minor ribs fall in relation to the size of the base of the snow guard product you are interested in purchasing. Use the
Spacing Tool for an instant project estimate and price quote and spacing layout.
Back to TopI just want to protect a doorway, any suggestions?
We market a product made just for vent pipe and chimney protection called VentSaver. Protecting just a doorway is a tricky proposition. Even though we don’t recommend it, in some areas of the country where the snow doesn't frequently freeze together it is possible to retain snow on partial roof sections. In potentially cold climate areas that have snow and ice accumulate and freeze for several days at a time, the disproportionate loading that is created, extends well beyond the secluded area of guards. This imbalanced type of load is usually detrimental to any type of snow retention device. The general rule of thumb is that snow and ice guards should be equally staggered over the entire roof so the loading is distributed uniformly. Most engineers agree it is better to have equal loading verses unequal loading on a building structure.
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What is the curing time of the SureBond EverSeal SB-190?
When used with our SnoBlox, SnoJax II & IceJax, the SureBond EverSeal SB-190 requires at least 672 hours (28 days) of cure time with temperatures of 50° Fahrenheit or above to adequately cure prior to being subject to a snow load. The curing process does not have to take place all at one time however it is essential that a cumulative total of at least 672 hours of 50° F. is attained. The adhesive is not ruined in cold weather, instead it just enters a dormant stage until temperatures rise above 50° F. In many instances the delay caused by cold weather can actually double or triple the 28 day curing period.
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What about cold weather adhesives?
Since 1985, we have spent thousands of dollars testing tapes, sealants and
adhesives and in our opinion the only adhesive that works is the SureBond SB-190.
The only
minor drawback is the specific time and temperature requirements that prevent
winter time installation. To our knowledge there are no miracle “cold
weather” adhesives,
tapes or sealants that work and although, we are the biggest fans of the SureBond
brand of products, we feel obligated to caution against using what several
competitors are touting as the “New Cold Weather Adhesive” called
SureBond EverFlex Bondaprene 1800. Just ask to see their professional snow
guard testing results
and
project references for this new product and you will see what we mean!
If considering an adhesive tape method of bonding, “Buyer Beware”!
We encourage you to carefully read the installation instructions. In addition
to thoroughly cleaning the panel surface, a harsh primer is recommended before
applying the tape. They also recommend sealing the perimeter of the guard with
a bead of the SB-190 or a private labeled brand of SB-190. The end result;
6 months after the sun’s UV rays disintegrate the tape, the only thing
that may still be holding the guard to the panel is the bead of SB-190. In
conclusion, we feel the tape gimmick is a smoke and mirror tactic that some
manufacturers offer for a quick or cold weather adhesive application.
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How do I use the Shopping Cart?
View Cart: At any time you can view the items in your cart by clicking
the View Cart button in the top right hand corner of any page,
located next to the cart sub total.
Available Products: Place the mouse cursor over the Product button
in the top navigation. Either select a product model from the drop-down menu,
or
click the Product button for a gallery of products.
Add Items: Choose a product. Enter a quantity in the quantity field.
Click on Add to Cart. You will be taken to the shopping cart.
Add More Items: When in the cart, either complete the above step,
click on Keep Shopping or select a product from the gallery in the shopping
cart. When on a product page, enter a quantity in the quantity field. Click
on Add
to Cart.
Change Cart Items: At any time you can change the number of items
already in the cart by updating the quantity field and then clicking on either
Recalculate Cart or Update Cart.
Minimum 25 Warning: All snow
guards have a 25 piece minimum order. If you see this warning either add items
or click Recalculate Cart or Update Cart to
meet the quantity requirement.
Shipping & Handling: The shipping rate is integrated with UPS
to receive up to the minute shipping rates. Enter a 5 digit zip code in the
ship to zip field and click GO. Orders ship the same or next
business day. PA sales tax is automatically added.
Secure Checkout: Click on Purchase Now or Secure
Checkout to buy the items in the shopping cart. You will be asked
to enter your billing information. Checkout options include registering,
buying without registering, PayPal and open account. If you register for
the site, your information will be retained, except credit card information,
so checkout will be quicker for you the next time you make a purchase.
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How do I Check Out?
Checkout is Safe and Secure, we use a site wide 128-bit SSL encryption to
keep your information safe. Checkout is also Easy, we offer a variety of checkout
options.
Click on Purchase Now or Secure
Checkout to buy the items in the shopping cart. You will be given
the option to Log In to Check Out, Buy Without Registering, PayPal,
or Existing Account Purchase Order. Choose a checkout option that
works best for you.
Enter your Billing and Shipping details. Please ensure
that the billing information matches your credit card statement exactly.
Enter your Credit Card information. Please ensure that the name matches the
name on the card exactly.
Enter your CVN. The CVN is the last 3 digits on back of Visa, MasterCard,
Discover and the last 4 digits on the front of American Express.
We require a CVN for your online safety and to help prevent credit card fraud. Click Secure
CheckOut.
Check your order. If everything looks good and if you agree to the terms,
Check the Check Box and Click Purchase.
Congratulations and Thank You! You have now completed a purchase with SnoBlox-SnoJax.
Please print the Receipt for your records. We will run your card when the
order is ready to ship. All orders ship the same or next business day.
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Is snow guard installation a do it yourself project?
Snow Guard installation is a reasonably straight forward process, see our installation page for details on the 3 easy steps. Unless you are familiar with walking on steel roofs, we recommend finding an experienced local metal roofing contractor. Since we are the manufacturer, we do not install snow guards nor do we make specific contractor recommendations. If you decide to tackle the job yourself, it may be worthwhile investing in a shoe made specifically for walking on roofs such as Cougar Paw shoes seen at www.cougarpaws.com. IceBlox Inc. d.b.a. SnoBlox- Snojax does not assume liability for the installation process or recommendations of its products.
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How do I calculate my Snow Load?
Please call your local zoning office or county building inspector. Your local building supply store or lumber yard may also know the local snow load values.
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Can you clarify the recommended use of the SB-190 adhesive?
SureBond SB-190 is the only adhesive recommended by SnoBlox-SnoJax. It requires 28 days or (672 Hours) at 50 Degrees (F) or above to achieve full cure. Temperatures below 40 Degrees (F) will delay the cure time, until temperatures reach 50 Degrees (F) or above to completely cure. The user must always determine the suitability of the products for their intended use as we do not stand behind the method of attachment for our snow retention systems due to the lack of control over workmanship. We also recommend that a manufacturers spacing layout is used for appropriate placement of the snow guards for maximum protection, assured satisfaction and validation of the warranty.
Glue Down Applications:
A chemical reaction takes place between the plastic and the solvent base of the SB-190. Over 28 days the SB-190 actually chemically welds itself to the polycarbonate snow guard. Not all plastics can withstand this type of chemical welding without loosing integrity, but we have found that after 22 years of selling the SB-190 product, it does not affect the high quality polycarbonate we use. Visit our test results page to see holding power of the SB-190 on our snow guards.
Screw Down Applications:
SureBond SB-190 is not recommended as a sealant for use with mechanically fastened snow guards. Though we have never experienced a snow guard failure as a result of using the SB-190 in conjunction with screws, we have experienced minor crazing around the screw holes after 30 days. The crazing is usually more evident when using the SB-190 as a sealant when screwing down the snow guards into a steel purlin rather than a wood purlin. As mentioned in our installation instructions sheet, a screw down application of snow guards should have 100 percent clear silicone or equal, uniformly covering the entire underside before placement. The screws should then be snug tightened to about 50 percent compression of the washer.
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Still need a little more help?
Contact Us or
Please call us at 1-866-423-2569 or 717-697-1900 and we would be glad to answer
your questions.
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