Why is Metal Snow Retention Better Than Plastic?
December 13th, 2016Every once in a while a customer will ask us why they should purchase our metal snow retention rather than the plastic ones they see. We typically don’t like plastic snow guards for many reasons.
Most plastics eventually become brittle when exposed to the sun.
Because of its tough nature, metal can withstand the sun’s destructive UV rays. Over time plastic will crack and deteriorate when continuously exposed to the sun.
Cracked, Brittle and Broken “Plastic Snow Guards”
TRA’s metal snow retention systems are attached securely using a variety of durable and strong mechanical methods.
Unlike metal, plastic snow guards are usually attached to a roof using caulking, which is likely to fail for the following reasons:
- If the roof is dirty or wet when installing this makes the adhesive not adhere properly. When have you ever seen a truly clean roof?
- More common than not snow guards are installed at temperatures below 40 degrees.
- Caulking cure time can be more than 30 days above 40 degrees.
- Over time plastic will crack & deteriorate when continuously exposed to the sun UV.
Unlike plastic, metal lasts.
Next time you are near a roof with plastic snow guards, see if any are missing and let us know!
We recommend only metal snow retention because we know it can properly protect those in and around your home. For extra protection, we engineer from the sheathing up with the fastener and provide a warranty on the entire snow retention system. Before installation, we engineer a specific layout to see that the system is exactly what you need for your specific location and weather. Contact us with any of your project details and we’ll provide you with the best snow defense system that’ll get you ready for winter.