Metal and Aluminum Cutting Services: Customize Your Next Project

Metal and Aluminum Cutting Services: Customize Your Next Project

What is Laser Cutting?

Laser cutting is a process used to cut hard, industrial materials for commercial or personal purposes. As the name implies, laser cutting uses a high-powered, focused laser to burn, melt, or vaporize metals like steel or aluminum, leaving smooth cuts behind.

Laser cutting isn’t just used for construction projects. It also has more artistic uses and is frequently used by metal fabricators to create letters, signs, logos, and sculptural pieces. After the cutting process, you can powder coat your creation too.

Metal Fabricators

Metal fabrication is the process through which sheet metals and other flat metals like aluminum and steel are made to conform to specific shapes. Laser cutting is a type of metal fabrication performed by a highly trained, specialized professional. When you choose metal and aluminum cutting services for your next project, you should work with a company with cutting-edge technology and experienced professionals.

laser cutting machine cutting metal

Looking for Your Next Metal Cutting Project?

What type of metal are you looking to cut? What specifications does your project have? If you’re located in American Fork, Spanish Fork, Salt Lake City, West Valley City, or surrounding Utah areas, TRA Snow & Sun can help form a customized solution to execute your project perfectly. Below are just a few projects that laser cutting can achieve:

METALIZED LETTERING

You need metal cutting services if you need clean edges, bold design, and professional quality lettering. Metal lettering makes an aesthetic impact and is highly durable and long-lasting.

METALIZED LOGOS & SIGNS

Your business needs to stand out. So make your custom logo larger than life with metal fabrication. Not only can metals like aluminum and steel be fabricated into intricate designs, but with powder coating, they can also be painted in a wide array of colors.

CUSTOMIZED SOLUTIONS

Have a project in mind that’s a little unconventional? Need a little professional help to achieve your artistic vision? A reputable company with cutting-edge technology, access to a large range of materials, and cost-effective services like TRA Snow & Sun will work with you to make your vision a reality.

laser cutting machine

Contact TRA Snow & Sun for Metal and Aluminum Cutting in American Fork, Utah

Regarding metal and aluminum cutting in American Fork, Utah, look no further than TRA Snow & Sun. From American Fork to Salt Lake City, we proudly serve the Utah Wasatch Front. Contact us for cost estimates and specifications for your next project. 

 

Roof Ventilation and Flashing Explained

roof vent close up
roof vent close up
Have you ever noticed that your house gets really hot in the summer, even if you have the air conditioning on? Well, that’s because the heat from outside can get trapped in your attic or the space between the roof and the ceiling. This is where roof ventilation comes in.

How does roof ventilation work?

Roof ventilation is like having windows in your attic to let the hot air out and cool air in. This helps keep the whole house cooler and more comfortable, especially on hot days. Just like you need to breathe in fresh air to feel good, your house needs fresh air too! 

The way roof ventilation works are by having special vents installed on the roof. These vents allow air to flow in and out of the attic, creating a draft that helps remove the hot air and bring in cool air. Think of it like a big fan that pulls in fresh air from outside and pushes out the hot air from inside.

shiny metal air ventilation on roof rotates to clean air

What types of roof ventilation are available?

There are different types of roof vents, such as ridge vents, which run along the peak of the roof, or box vents, which are installed on the flat part of the roof. Some houses may even have powered vents that use electricity to move air in and out of the attic. 

So, why do we need roof ventilation? Well, besides keeping the house cool, it also helps prevent moisture buildup in the attic. When hot air gets trapped in the attic, it can create condensation, which can lead to mold and other types of damage. Roof ventilation helps prevent this by allowing air to flow in and out of the attic and keep it dry.

multiple roof vents

What is roof flashing?

Now, let’s talk about roof flashing. Have you ever seen a big metal sheet around a chimney or pipe on the roof? That’s roof flashing! Roof flashing is a protective layer that’s installed around the edges of the roof and any openings in the roof, like chimneys or skylights. Its job is to keep water from leaking into the house. 

But with flashing, water hits the metal sheet and slides down onto the ground, like an umbrella. This helps keep the inside of the house dry and safe. It’s like a raincoat for the house! 

Flashing is usually made of metal, such as aluminum or copper. This is because metal is strong, durable, and can withstand different weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and wind.

Closeup view of side parts with insulation and sponge seals of roof window (skylight or dormer)

What are the types of roof flashing?

There are different types of flashing, such as step flashing, which is used around chimneys and walls, or valley flashing, which is used in the valley of the roof where two sloping sides meet. Some flashing may even have a rubber sealant or caulking to provide extra protection against leaks. 

So, in summary, roof ventilation and roof flashing are important parts of a house that help keep it cool, dry, and safe. Roof ventilation allows air to flow in and out of the attic, which helps remove hot air and prevent moisture buildup. Roof flashing is a protective layer that keeps water from leaking into the house through the roof and other openings. Just like how we take care of ourselves by staying cool and dry, we need to take care of our houses too!

Protect Your Building with Snow Brackets: The Importance of Snow Retention Systems

snow retention roof
snow guards on roof

Snow brackets, also known as snow guards or snow fences, are an essential component of any building’s roof system in regions that experience heavy snowfall. These devices are used to prevent snow and ice from sliding off a sloped roof, which can be dangerous for people and property below. Snow brackets work by creating friction between the snow and the roof surface, causing it to melt slowly and allowing it to drip off the roof in a controlled manner. In this article, we will explore the importance of snow brackets for snow retention purposes.

Preventing Roof Damage

The primary reason for using snow brackets is to prevent roof damage caused by snow and ice. A heavy snow load can stress a roof significantly, causing it to buckle or even collapse in extreme cases. Snow brackets help to distribute the weight of the snow evenly across the roof, reducing the risk of damage. By holding the snow in place, they also prevent ice dams from forming along the roof’s edge. These dams can cause water to back up under the roof, leading to leaks and water damage inside the building.

snow brackets on roof close up

Protecting People and Property

Another critical reason for using snow brackets is to protect people and property below the roof. When large chunks of snow and ice slide off a sloped roof, they can be dangerous to anyone standing or walking below. Snow brackets help to control the release of snow and ice, preventing it from falling off in large chunks. This is especially important in areas with high foot traffic, such as sidewalks and parking lots.

Maintaining Aesthetic Appeal

Snow brackets also play a role in maintaining the aesthetic appeal of a building’s roof. Without them, snow and ice can slide off the roof, creating unsightly piles around the perimeter of the building. This can be particularly problematic for commercial properties that want to maintain a professional appearance. Snow brackets allow snow to melt and drip off the roof in a controlled manner, preventing the accumulation of snow and ice around the building’s edges.

Increasing Energy Efficiency

Snow brackets can also help to increase a building’s energy efficiency. When snow accumulates on a roof, it acts as an insulator, preventing heat from escaping the building. This can be beneficial in cold climates but also increase energy costs in areas with milder winters. By holding the snow in place, snow brackets prevent excessive snow buildup, allowing heat to escape through the roof more efficiently.
snow guards and snow fence on roof

Compliance with Building Codes

Finally, snow brackets may be required by local building codes in areas that experience heavy snowfall. Building codes are designed to ensure that buildings are safe and structurally sound, and they often include provisions for snow retention systems. Failing to comply with these codes can result in fines and other penalties.

In conclusion, snow brackets are essential for snow retention purposes in areas that experience heavy snowfall. They help to prevent roof damage, protect people and property, maintain aesthetic appeal, increase energy efficiency, and comply with building codes. Building owners and managers should work with roofing professionals to determine the appropriate snow retention system for their building and ensure that it is installed correctly. With the proper snow retention system in place, building owners can have peace of mind knowing that their roofs are protected from the damaging effects of heavy snow and ice.

Revitalize Your Metal Parts with Bulk Metal Painting Services

person spray painting a snow retention system
person spray painting a snow retention system

Bulk metal painting service and powder coating are two essential services for companies specializing in laser cutting. Laser cutting produces clean and precise cuts on metal surfaces, but it can also leave the surface of the metal rough and unfinished. Without proper finishing, the metal may be susceptible to rust, corrosion, and other forms of damage over time.

Bulk metal painting is a service that involves applying paint to the surface of metal parts in large quantities. This service is ideal for companies that need to paint a high volume of parts quickly and efficiently. Metal parts can be painted using a variety of techniques, including spray painting and electrostatic painting. Bulk metal painting can be used to apply a wide range of paint types, including enamel, acrylic, and epoxy.

laser cutting machine

Powder coating is another popular metal finishing technique that is commonly used in conjunction with laser cutting. This technique involves applying a dry powder to the surface of the metal, which is then heated to a high temperature to create a durable and protective coating. Powder coating is an ideal finishing option for metal parts that need to withstand harsh environmental conditions or heavy wear and tear.

Bulk metal painting and powder coating can enhance the appearance of metal parts while providing a layer of protection against damage. Metal parts that have been painted or powder-coated can have a wide range of finishes, including glossy, matte, and textured. This allows companies to customize their finished products to suit their specific needs and aesthetic preferences.

When choosing a bulk metal painting and powder coating company, selecting a company with experience working with a wide range of metals and finishes is important. The company should also have state-of-the-art equipment and a skilled team of technicians to ensure that the finished products meet the highest quality and durability standards.

Cnc milling machine processing and laser cutting for metal

In addition to bulk metal painting and powder coating, many laser cutting companies offer additional services, including design and engineering, CNC machining, and assembly. By choosing a company that offers a full range of metal fabrication services, companies can save time and money by consolidating their supply chain and working with a single provider for all of their metal fabrication needs.

Overall, bulk metal painting and powder coating are essential services for companies that specialize in laser cutting. These finishing techniques can enhance the appearance and durability of metal parts while providing a layer of protection against damage. By working with a reputable and experienced metal fabrication company, companies can ensure that their finished products meet the highest quality and durability standards.

TRA Snow & Sun is a laser-cutting company offering metal painting services from American Fork, Utah.

What to Know When Selecting Custom Snow Brackets

What to Know When Selecting Custom Snow Brackets

snow on roof

What are snow brackets?

Snow brackets, also called snow guards, are pieces of metal mounted on your roof which are designed to prevent large amounts of snow from falling in one large chunk. Rather, snow guards help accumulated precipitation slide off your roof in small amounts at a time. Custom snow guards are fundamental to your home’s exterior if you live in a place that experiences heavy snowfall.

 

What Roof Types are Best for Custom Snow Guards?

Snow guards work best with metal roofs. If you have a metal roof, snow guards are compatible with your home’s roofing material. Snow brackets are commonly placed along existing seams in metal roofs. Custom snow brackets can help with snow retention if your metal roof is sloped. Why would you want to retain snow? Large amounts that slide off in huge chunks can damage the housing material on lower stories, kill plant life, and even cause serious injury to people below. Plus, cleanup is a hassle after a “mini avalanche.” With a metal roof, snow guards protect your home and the people within it.

Selecting Custom Snow Retention Systems

Snow retention brackets come in various lengths, widths, and shapes to best fit your roof and your functional needs. They vary from traditional spikes to more creative shapes like pine trees, moose, bears, and maple trees. Installation of this custom project is easy, though a certified roofing contractor can help install metal snow guards should you need them. Customized snow retention brackets offer long-lasting protection to your roof and the rest of the home below.

snow overflowing on garage

Ready to Commit to Custom Snow Guard Solutions?

There are lots of companies that create customized snow brackets for roofs. You want to work with a reputable company that provides custom solutions no matter your roof’s material, your geographical location, or the heaviness of your yearly snowfall. Speak with a reputable contractor and determine what installation would require, what sort of snow retention systems they recommend, and what the associated cost will be.

 

Choosing the Right Snow Guard for Your Utah Roof

Choosing the Right Snow Guard for Your Utah Roof

 

Snow guards are an important addition to any roof in Utah. Heavy snowfall is common and can cause damage to roofs and create dangerous situations for pedestrians and vehicles below. Snow guards are devices installed on roofs to stop large sheets of snow and ice from sliding off, and they can help protect roofs from the weight of snow and ice.

Several types of snow guards are available, each with features and benefits. Some of the most common types, along with their pros and cons:

Metal snow guards

Metal snow guards are typically made of aluminum or stainless steel and are known for their durability and long lifespan. They are also relatively easy to install, as they can be attached to the roof using screws or adhesive. However, metal snow guards can be more expensive than other types and may only be suitable for some roofing materials.

Plastic snow guards

Plastic snow guards are more affordable and often easier to install than metal snow guards. In addition, they are available in various colors to match different roofing materials and are relatively lightweight, making them less prone to damaging the roof. However, plastic snow guards may not be as durable as metal ones and may need to be replaced more frequently. This is why some companies opt out of offering snow guards made of plastic due to a lack of durability.

Rubber snow guards

Rubber snow guards are a flexible and durable option well-suited to roofs with irregular surfaces or imperfections. These snow guards are easy to install and can be attached using adhesive or screws. Rubber snow guards are also relatively affordable and can be found in various colors to match roofing materials. However, they may not be as effective at preventing the build-up of snow and ice as other types of snow guards.

Snow fences

Snow fences are a type of snow guard designed to be installed along the edge of a roof rather than on top. They are made of metal, plastic, or rubber and work by creating a barrier that prevents snow and ice from sliding from the roof. Snow fences are relatively easy to install and are effective at preventing the build-up of snow and ice, but they may not be as aesthetically pleasing as other types of snow guards.

 

When selecting snow guards in Utah, it is important to consider the slope of your roof, the type of roofing material, and the amount of snowfall you typically receive. Utah can experience heavy snowfall, so it is important to choose a type of snow guard that can handle the weight of the snow and ice. It would also be beneficial to think about the snow guards’ aesthetics, as they will be visible on your roof. Finally, choose a type of snow guard compatible with your roofing material and easily installed by a professional.

Why Use a Snow Guard System?

snow guard

It’s summertime, but there’s no better time to be aware of the danger of sliding snowfall to your roof. Knowing now can save you later.

Shedding the snow throughout the winter can be detrimental to your roof and dangerous to anyone near your roof.

Metal roofs and other roofs besides metal roofs often have compacted snow falling off them during colder months that can be dangerous to both metal roofs and the ground around them.

A roof avalanche from slate roofs in a neighborhood can cause extensive damage to your property and damage to yourself with the sudden release of snow that has not had the chance to melt completely.

Not only does the sliding and scraping cause damage to your roof and anything waiting below on your property, but the resultant dams can also cause damage.

Have you heard of an ice dam?

If not, we can be pretty sure that you have at least seen one. They’re common in Utah on roofs that don’t have snow guards.

An ice dam is a buildup of compacted snow that occurs as snow is pushed down the roof, but does not quite make it off of the roof. It totters there, a constant warning to anyone down below that the slightest sliding motion could result in intense, crushing weight falling off past the gutters.

As all that compounds, the snow starts to melt and then refreeze.

You can see that the dam extends farther than the roof and as it builds up, it puts even more pressure on the edge of your roof.

To stop dams from developing and to snow the snow load from scraping and pulling at your roof, you must stop the movement.

The solution? Snow guards.

Snow guards, in case you don’t know, are protection to keep snow from damaging your roof.

A remarkable, simple technology, snow guards retain snow in an installed system across the roof of your house that has worked perfectly for European homes and has migrated recently to the American roof.

Interestingly, once you stop the movement of ice and snow you will also find that the snow acts as an insulator for your home.

When your attic is ventilated properly, you can assure that the snow keeps your warmth inside of your home.

It may seem counterintuitive that extra snow on your home will keep it warmer, but it’s true.

No matter your roof type, adding snow guards will provide snow retention that keeps snow on your roof and allows it to melt as the sun rises.

Snow Guard Types

There are different snow guards for different roofs; some of the roof types that can use snow guards include:

  • metal roof (or standing seam roofs)
  • slate roofs (with shingle systems)
  • steel roof (no matter the slope or ridge situation)
  • a roof with gutters (gutters are a great product, but stopping snowfall isn’t in their job description)
  • a roof that a roofing contractor said wouldn’t need any sort of additional protection against the snow (they were wrong)
  • and, most definitely, your roof

Why Snow Guards?

Keeping snow on your roof with snow guards, whether it’s snow guards for a standing seam roof or a roof with skylights, might make you concerned for the safety of your building.

Snow guards are still relatively new to the American roofing industry. They’re not overly popular. Why should you use a snow guard system?

But really, to prevent damage, the installation of snow guard systems using the right installation guides is what works. Pedestrians, landscaping, and your roof itself are all in danger from snow damage if you don’t enact snow retaining methods through snow guards systems.

But How Do Snow Guards Work?

Snow guards stop the snow from falling using snow retention methods.

Although there are many snow retention products, snow guards are generally seen as the best snow retention options for your roof.

Snow guards are:

  • cheap
  • versatile
  • and easy to install for even the most uncertain customer

Your house can be protected with the simple installation of snow guards that break snow into small amounts and allow it to melt into water that will run off into your gutters.

This stops the potential for a standing seam roof to tear under the weight of the snow, the potential for damage to property or people, and all of your worries when it comes to snow damage. If you live somewhere with heavy snow fall, snow guards take a lot off your plate.

Finding snow guards designed for your roof is easy: businesses like TRA Snow and Sun work with contractors to design snow guards installation guides for your roof in particular.

Why Haven’t I Heard of Snow Guard Systems Before?

Most roofing consultants suggest that roofs are built in a way that sheds the snow and ice off of the roof throughout the winter.

But that’s actually a bad thing. Installation of snow guards will protect your roof to a greater extent than a “safety measure” that causes more harm than actual safety. Think about it like this: if you build a roof that pushes large volumes of snow and ice off of your roof, you will probably find that as the snow and ice scrape across your roof, it will cause damage.

But with the installation of snow guards, stops installed at engineered intervals keep the snow atop your building.

It melts under the sun and doesn’t bother anyone.

As we work with you to develop a more effective snow retention plan for your roof, we will ensure that your roof is safer to be around throughout winter months, that the snow will insulate your home, and that your roof will not endure as much stress, which results in damage, next snow season.

Installing Snow Guards on Asphalt Shingle Roofs

Your roof is probably not exactly like your neighbor’s.

Or, if it is, then it’s not exactly like your friend’s.

Whether you have a metal roof (likely one of the metal roofs that belongs to the standing seam roofs family), slate roofs, a steel roof, or no matter your roof type, all roofs have the same problem: snow falling.

What’s Up There? Oh, Snow

Snow retention, or the practice of keeping snow on your roof until it melts naturally, prevents extensive damage from the sudden release of snow (called a roof avalanche) in the winter months.

Your roofing contractor, no matter your roof, probably created your roof with gutters that are more than prepared for heavy rainfall: but what about ice and snow?

Snow guards for your roof are the snow retention answer you need.

What Ifs and the Answer

But what about YOUR roof?

What about your metal roof, or roofs on your house that have slate shingling or another roof style?

What if you have a cedar roof?

Fun fact: snow guards can be used on ANY roof!

The great thing about snow guards is that, since there are different snow guards designed for different roofs, adding snow guards to metal roofs is just as simple a process as adding snow guards or a snow guard substitute to any other roof.

How Do You Get Snow Guards?

When you use the right installation guides and understand what’s best for your house, you can install snow guards that worked perfectly on one roof and work perfectly on yours, too.

Yes, YOU, the owner of the property, can get a snow guard installed.

There are many different types of roofs out there and many people believe snow retention installation can’t prevent damage on all of them.

We disagree!

Our snow retention products can be installed on most roof types.

And Now: the Video!

One of the most common materials used in roofing is asphalt shingles because they are relatively inexpensive and pretty easy to install.

If you have an asphalt shingle and would like to install snow retention on it, you have come to the right place.

This video will show you exactly what to do!

How Roofing Codes Compare to Snow Guards

Right now, our homes are comfortably situated in the summer heat that’s keeping the usual mountain snow at bay. But in six months, we’ll all be under the usual, familiar white covering that can cause so many problems for our roofs and homes in general. And, like it or not, snow with all its magical qualities isn’t great for you as an individual, either, unless you have snow guards for your metal roof.

The Scenario: No Snow Guards

Snow falling might be a beautiful sight, but if it doesn’t melt completely on your roof type with the help of snow guards or another snow guard-like retention system, keeping snow from hurting you and your family in the winter months can prove to be difficult. To prevent damage, you need to make sure the snow stops compressing on your house to avoid a sudden release of an avalanche below. Different snow guards can be used on different roofs, but all snow guards designed to help your roof will get the job done. Snow guards will keep snow from compressing and snow guards will keep your house safe. But maybe you’re not sold on snow guards just yet. Why aren’t snow guards included in every home design then? Why do you need snow guards? Are snow guards expensive? snowy suburban roofs need snow brackets Let’s make this more personal, so you can see the benefits for you and your home of installing a snow guard system on your metal roof. Picture three feet of snow and ice sitting on the metal roof above your front porch.  The sun is heating the frozen snow, and your four-year-old son is riding the brand new bike he got for Christmas and shivering at the temperature outside. You let this happen because you trust your metal roof. Metal roofs are prepared to protect against a roof avalanche, you’ve been told. The codes that were followed when the roofing contractor installed roof will protect you and your son from being hurt by snow that might fall off the roof, right? Whether you’re working with a metal roof, slate roofs, a steel roof, or a standing seam metal roof, you’ll be protected from extensive damage when it comes to snow. That’s the trust you have in your contractor and your community. There are ordinances and codes keeping you safe. That’s your government’s job and the job of any individual whose resources you purchased for a price while building your home. They sold you a great product, and, as part of the job and your construction project, they made sure that each shingle was safe. Right? They followed the codes.

The Truth

Except there aren’t any codes referring to house protection from snow or installation of snow systems on your roof. Thousands of codes have been developed for construction all over the country.  However, roof snow retention to keep dangerous snowfall from affecting your daily life has never been addressed.  As a result, individuals who trusted the people building their house have neglected installation of snow protection for their roofs and suffered the consequences every year. Why do we stand by and allow millions of dollars of property damage and even deaths to occur every year from sliding snow when adding snow guards to your building could easily solve the problem?  Codes governing products, installation guides, and standards are not in place to protect the consumer.  In fact, currently, anyone can cast a wax snow guard, spread some cement on the bottom, tell the consumer how to install it without any testing whatsoever, and then market it. Your roof isn’t tested and tried against falling snow or the issues that are caused when snow can melt and cause problems when you don’t have snow guards in place. Snow weighing down roof Inferior products are out there with no consumer protection in place.  Roofers and roof consultants are left with the daunting task of judging whether or not what they are specifying and installing will provide adequate safety and effectiveness in snow areas. As a roof consultant, what methods should be used to determine which types of snow guards to recommend?  Are you assuming that the snow retention manufacturers have engineered their snow retention products from the fail point of the roof system?  Are the current U.S. codes providing the standard to assure safety from sliding snow? Installation of snow systems to stop sliding snow on slate and other roofs aren’t regulated. But you, as a homeowner, can control the installation that will protect you this upcoming winter.

The Research that Led Us to Snow Guards

Brand new house with snow guards Architects, roof consultants, builders, and roofing contractors make a lot of assumptions concerning snow and ice, and, as they are not guided by a consistent system process, they often fail. Our trial and error process hasn’t worked perfectly. The simple truth is that most snow retention manufacturers do not design their products from the fail point of the roof system, resulting in many failures.  There are no ICC codes for snow retention.  The standard for the roofing industry is to just do what you have done in the past or guess that three rows at the eave of the roof will be just fine. Is this what our customers deserve for their roof systems? Since the government isn’t protecting your roof, it’s up to various industries who have installed these systems in the winter for years. There is another industry that one would think ought to have taken a lead in this life-threatening concern.  The insurance industry is often expected to pay for failures in adequate systems.  In the state of Utah, children have been killed from snow and ice falling off roofs.  Snow avalanches have caused death, vehicle damage, and roof and gutter damage.  Since there’s no regulatory process that demands a house have protection against snowfall installed, insurance companies refuse to pay for these damages because they’re labeled as an “act of God”. death by snow roof incident It is true that we don’t have control over snow movement on roofs. Small amounts of snow, when left on your roof for long periods of time, can create pressure so great it can tear through even the best roof. But refusing to acknowledge that a simple project with a verified contractor can improve the quality of your roof’s protection from snow is an outdated idea. Comparing how Europeans and Americans design their snow retention systems explain some reasons why the standards in America are not working.  In America we have no standards, whereas in Europe, designers look at the potential fail points of the roof and then design the system from the starting point.

The Questions to Answer When it Comes to Snow Guards

There are six key questions to ask when planning a roof snow retention system:
  1. What is the sheathing type and thickness and how is it attached to the substrate?
  2. How is the snow bracket attached to the sheathing?  How many fasteners per bracket are required and what is the pullout load of each fastener in the particular type of sheathing?
  3. What are the fail point loads of the snow bracket?
  4. What is the slope of the roof?
  5. What is the ground snow load?
  6. Where and how might ice dams occur?
After they have gathered all this information, European engineers develop layout charts using all the data.  These charts include specific types of roof and snow brackets and snow guards installed on different sheathing types and thicknesses, snow load, roof slopes, and the number of snow guards needed per roofing square. Then snow guards are placed according to the layout charts from eave to the ridge, which eliminates all snow and ice movement.  This protocol of snow guards placement results in placement of snow retention devices from eave to ridge, never just along the edge. The snow and ice is restrained in place across the entire roof.  It just melts in place in the spring, eliminating damage to people or property and so-called “Acts of God.” Until a comprehensive standard is accepted and approved, all roof consultants would be wise to work with manufacturers who will provide them with this type of comprehensive data and then design roofs in accordance with the six suggestions above. This will help ensure customers are getting a quality design and protect consultants from lawsuits if someone is maimed or killed or property is damaged by falling snow and ice. unsafe roof with snow that could lead to death

Preventing Roof Ice Dams

heavy snow on roof

The formation of ice dams on the roof can spell disaster for any homeowner and is an issue that must be solved quickly.  Ice dams are the name referring to the buildup of ice on the eaves of the roof which can cause standing water to be caught on the shingles.

How do ice dams form?

medium_3256165541

An ice dam forms as heat from the home escapes through the roof and causes the snow that is on top of the roof to melt.  As the meltwater runs down the roof, it cools when it hits the parts of the roof that are not heated from the home, usually the eaves of the roof, and refreezes, causing the buildup of more and more ice until an ice dam has formed and has completely blocked the flow of melting water from the roof.

How to avoid ice dams?

When water is left standing on the roof, it has the potential to erode shingles and leak into the home, cause great amounts of water damage to both the roof of the home and possibly the interior of the home as well. But this damage can be avoided if the homeowner will take the appropriate steps in avoiding the buildup of ice dams.

  1. Secure the attic insulation. Insulating the attic of the home will allow less heat to escape and thereby largely eliminate the staggered snowmelt that leads to ice dams.
  2. Create ventilation. Both on the roof itself and from the attic through the roof at the corners, creating and installing ventilation will allow for the warm air to escape the sides of the home while allowing for cold air to run up the length of the roof to keep the snow cold and safe.
  3. Cap any hatches on the roof. Ceiling fans, attic hatches and other such openings allow for warm air to escape in droves. Sealing or capping these openings effectively will greatly reduce the amount of melt-water that has the potential to form an ice dam.
  4. Install snow brackets. Snow clips will help to retain the snow on the roof and will discourage the formation of ice dams by holding snow in place and allowing for an even and natural melt.