Does snow slide off of a DaVinci roof?
Snow tends to slide off all roofs, but is more likely to slide off metal, natural slate, glazed tile, and polymer tiles (like DaVinci roofs). This is due to some of the same physical characteristics that help to make DaVinci such a long lasting beautiful roof. DaVinci roofing products have smooth surfaces and don’t absorb water. This means that snow and ice have no place to “grip” as it might with some other roofing products. When snow begins to melt from a warm attic underneath, the snow blanket on top may slide off the roof all at once.
What is the solution?
Installing a pattern of snow guards or attaching snow fences near the eave can reduce or eliminate snow slides. Snow guards work by adding friction to the roof. Snow fences on the other hand, create a barrier to prevent snow movement. Snow guards are the preferred product for most areas while snow fences are used in very high snow areas like ski resorts.
Who should consider snow guards?
Snow guards should be considered in parts of the country where accumulating snowfalls occur. Many roofs or parts of roofs may not need any snow guards at all. In fact, some structures are designed so that snow will slide off of the roof, reducing the stress on the structure.
Does my house need snow retention?
It all depends on what the snow may fall on as it slides off of the roof. The installation of snow guards should be considered on roof areas where sliding snow might land on people or property. Decks, walkways and driveways are obvious examples of such areas.
What snow guards should I use?
There are many different types of snow guards. Snow guards for use on DaVinci roofs must have an attachment strap and be manufactured of long lasting- non-corrosive metals. The best types to use with DaVinci products are manufactured of copper, stainless steel or coated aluminum. Plastic snow guards, typically used on metal roofs, are not recommended for DaVinci roofs.
What if my roof is already installed without snow guards?
The best time to install snow guards is when your DaVinci roof is being installed. But if your DaVinci roof is already installed, don’t worry. There are snow guards available that are specifically designed to be installed after your roof is on. These are known as retro-fit snow guards and this type of snow guard won’t compromise the integrity, warranty or longevity of your beautiful DaVinci roof.
Ask your contractor if you need snow guards. The final decision on whether or not to install snow guards rests with you and your contractor.
For more information, a good resource for snow guards on DaVinci roofs is Rocky Mountain Snow Guards. www.rockymountainsnowguards.com