Snow Guards for Asphalt Shingle Roofs: What Homeowners and Contractors Need to Know
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the United States- but they’re also one of the most overlooked when it comes to snow retention. Many people assume snow guards and snow‑fence systems are only necessary on metal roofs. That misconception leads to preventable damage, unnecessary repairs, and shortened roof life.
Why Asphalt Shingle Roofs Still Need Snow Retention
When snow builds up on an asphalt shingle roof, it doesn’t always melt in place. As temperatures rise, the snowpack can shift, creep, or avalanche suddenly:
- Roof avalanches can send upper layers of snow and ice off the roofline, damaging gutters, landscaping, vehicles, HVAC units, and anything, or anyone, below.
- Slow downward creep can drag across the shingle surface, loosening shingles and wearing away protective granules. Once those granules are gone, shingles deteriorate faster and the roof becomes more vulnerable to weather damage.
In other words, asphalt shingles don’t eliminate the risk- they just hide it until it becomes expensive.
Yes, Asphalt Shingle Roofs Can Be Equipped With Snow Retention
A properly engineered snow‑retention system works extremely well on asphalt shingles. The attachment method is different from metal roofing, but the purpose is identical: control how snow leaves the roof, so it doesn’t become a hazard or cause damage.
Depending on the roof’s pitch, snow‑load requirements, and layout, the right solution may be:
- Individual snow guards spaced across the roof
- A snow‑fence (bar) system installed along the roofs eave - sometimes with additional rows above
- A hybrid approach gives excellent protection using a snow-fence along the eave and individual snow guards above to help hold the snowpack in place
The key is engineering, not guesswork.
How We Engineer the Right System for Your Roof
At Ice Control Engineering, Inc., every asphalt‑shingle project begins with a free custom layout. We evaluate:
- Building location
- Local ground snow‑load data
- Roof pitch
- Shingle specifications
- Total roof dimensions
- Exposure and elevation
From there, we determine the correct system type and the exact number of snow guards or snow-fence required. We don’t use generic spacing charts or one‑size‑fits‑all recommendations. Your layout is tailored to your roof and your climate.
Built in Utah. Proven Across the West.
We manufacture all of our snow guards and snow‑fence systems at our facility in Orem, Utah. Every component is fabricated, assembled, and powder coated in‑house for consistent quality and reliable performance.
Since 2008, we’ve supplied engineered snow‑retention systems for residential and commercial properties throughout Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, the western United States, and Canada.
Get a Free Custom Layout for Your Asphalt Shingle Roof
If you’re a homeowner or contractor working with asphalt shingles in a snow‑prone region, we’ll design the system for you.
Call 801‑854‑5167 or visit IceControlEngineering.com to request your free custom layout.