Does Your Roof Actually Need an Engineered Snow Guard or Snow Fence?

Not every roof requires snow guards or snow fences, but many roofs in snowy climates benefit from a properly designed snow retention system. Snow guards can be installed by homeowners, but snow retention is not a guessing game. Without experience, it is easy to make costly mistakes.

Ice Control Engineering, Inc., offers both parts-only orders and professionally engineered snow retention systems. We use snow load calculations specific to your geographic area, along with your roof type, pitch, and slope, to determine the exact number and layout of snow guards or snow fences needed to safely protect your home or business.

Let Ice Control Engineering handle the heavy lifting when it comes to selecting the correct snow retention system and layout for installation by professional roofers. If a homeowner or business owner has done extensive research and feels confident in their approach, we are still happy to provide guidance and support.

Steep-Sloped Roofs

• Steeper roofs allow snow to slide off more quickly, increasing the risk of dangerous roof avalanches

• Structurally designed snow guards help control snow movement and reduce the risk of property damage and injury

Metal Roofs

• Metal roofs shed snow easily, making sudden snow and ice release more likely

• A properly designed snow retention system helps manage snow release and improve safety below

Foot Traffic Below the Roof Edge

• Entrances, driveways, patios, and loading zones are high-risk areas for falling snow

• Professionally designed snow retention layouts help protect homeowners, employees, customers, and visitors without guesswork

Gutters and Landscaping

• Snow avalanches can tear off gutters and damage landscaping and HVAC systems

• Snow guards help prevent costly exterior damage

Commercial and Public Buildings

• Schools, churches, warehouses, and retail buildings face increased liability from falling snow and ice

• Professionally engineered snow retention systems help reduce risk and support responsible property management

If any of these conditions apply, your roof will likely benefit from a custom-designed snow retention system. Ice Control Engineering, Inc. provides free, custom designed snow retention layouts tailored to your roof type, pitch, and snow load requirements.