🇨🇦 Canada Snow Guards

Metal Roof Snow Guard Resources For Canada

Everything you need to choose, size, and install snow retention systems for Canadian metal roofs. Serving Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, BC, the Prairies, and Atlantic Canada.

Get Free Layout Recommendation Quick Start Guide

Quick Start: 3 Steps to the Right System

1

Identify Your Roof Panel

Standing seam or screw-down? The panel type determines which snow guard system will work.

See panel types →
2

Check Your Snow Load

Your region's snow load (PSF) affects how many guards and rows you'll need.

Check snow load →
3

Get a Layout Plan

Send us photos and your location. We'll recommend the right layout for free.

Request layout →
📋

What to Send Us:

  • 2 photos: close-up of seam/rib + full roof view
  • Your city/province or postal code
  • Approximate roof pitch and size
  • Panel type (if you know it)

We'll respond within 1 business day with compatibility confirmation and layout guidance.

Common Metal Roof Panel Types

Most Canadian metal roofs fall into one of these categories. Not sure? Send us a photo.

🔒

Standing Seam

Raised vertical seams (1–2" tall) that lock or snap together. Common on residential and commercial buildings.

  • Non-penetrating clamp systems available
  • Preserves roof warranty when done correctly
  • Snap-lock or mechanically seamed
Seam profile must be verified for clamp compatibility
🔩

Screw-Down (Through-Fastened)

Exposed screws visible on panel surface. Very common on agricultural, shop, and cabin roofs.

  • Uses penetrating attachment systems
  • Bar/rail or pad-style systems available
  • Proper fastening is critical
Layout and substrate matter for performance
〰️

Corrugated

Wavy repeating profile with rounded corrugations. Often screw-down attachment.

  • Rib spacing affects product selection
  • Confirm gauge and substrate type
  • Multiple retention options available
Send rib photo + spacing measurement
Need help identifying your roof? Take a side-angle photo showing the seam/rib profile clearly, plus one full roof shot. We'll confirm the panel type and recommend compatible systems. Send photos →

Canadian Snow Load Reference (PSF)

Use this as a starting point. Exact loads vary by elevation, exposure, and local conditions.

Typical Range: 30–60 PSF

Ontario varies widely. Lake effect zones, elevation, and exposure can push values higher.

Get Accurate Recommendation

Why Snow Load Matters

  • Higher PSF = more retention needed (more rows, tighter spacing)
  • Valleys and lower roofs create drift zones with 2–3x normal load
  • Under-sizing leads to guard failure and sliding snow
  • Local codes may require engineered layouts in some regions

What We Need From You

  • City/town + province (or postal code)
  • Roof pitch (degrees or rise/run)
  • Roof dimensions (approximate)
  • Any valleys, dormers, or lower roofs

Important: This reference is for general guidance only. For engineered or code-critical projects, consult local building codes and professional design resources.

Installation & Layout Guidance

📏 How Many Rows?

Most Canadian regions need 2+ rows for adequate retention. Single rows only work in very low snow areas or short roof runs.

Higher PSF, longer roof slopes, and steeper pitches typically require 2–3 rows. We'll calculate the right layout for your specific situation.

📐 Spacing Matters

Guards should be spaced based on PSF, pitch, and panel type. Too far apart = snow breakthrough.

Typical spacing: 8–24" apart depending on load. Tighter spacing in high drift zones (valleys, eaves, lower roofs).

⚠️ Common Mistakes

  • Only installing on part of the roof
  • Ignoring valleys and drift zones
  • Wrong attachment for panel type
  • Under-estimating snow load

🔧 DIY vs Professional

Many homeowners install snow guards themselves, especially clamp systems. But it requires:

  • Safe roof access and fall protection
  • Proper layout measurements
  • Correct torque/fastening technique

Not comfortable? Hire a qualified roofer. We can provide layout specs for your contractor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need snow guards in Canada?

In most Canadian regions, yes. Metal roofs are slippery, and snow/ice slides off in dangerous avalanches that can:

  • Injure people walking below
  • Damage landscaping, vehicles, decks, or lower roofs
  • Tear off gutters and downspouts
  • Create liability issues for property owners

Snow guards hold snow on the roof so it melts gradually or releases in smaller, safer amounts. They're especially important near walkways, driveways, entrances, and over porches.

Will clamps damage my standing seam roof or void the warranty?

No, when done correctly. Quality clamp systems are non-penetrating and designed to grip the seam without drilling holes. They preserve the roof's waterproof integrity.

However:

  • The clamp must match your specific seam profile
  • Installation must follow manufacturer torque specs
  • Some roof panel warranties require specific clamp types

Send us a seam photo and we'll confirm compatibility with your roof warranty.

How many rows do I need?

Most Canadian roofs need 2–3 rows. It depends on:

  • Snow load (PSF): Higher snow = more rows
  • Roof length: Longer slopes need more rows
  • Pitch: Steeper roofs can handle fewer rows
  • Drift zones: Valleys and lower roofs need extra retention

One row only works in very low snow areas (rare in Canada) or very short roof runs. We'll recommend the right layout for your specific building and location.

What's the difference between snow guards and snow rails?

Snow guards are individual retention devices spaced in rows across the roof. They create friction to slow snow movement.

Snow rails (or bars) are continuous horizontal barriers that run across the roof. They create a physical stop that holds back snow more aggressively.

Both work, but rails are typically used in very high snow load areas or on longer roof runs. Many installations use a combination: rails at critical zones (like over entrances) with guards elsewhere.

Do you ship to all of Canada?

Yes. We ship snow guards across all Canadian provinces and territories.

Most products ship from within Canada for faster delivery. Some specialty items may ship from the USA depending on stock availability, but we optimize for reliable cross-Canada shipping.

Can I install these myself or do I need a roofer?

Many DIYers successfully install snow guards, especially clamp-on systems for standing seam roofs. They don't require special tools or roofing experience—just:

  • Safe roof access and proper fall protection
  • A tape measure and chalk line for layout
  • Ability to follow torque specifications (for clamps)

Screw-down systems require more care: you're drilling into the roof, so proper sealing and fastener placement matter.

Not comfortable working at height? Hire a local roofer. We can provide layout drawings and installation specs for your contractor to follow.

What photos do you need to recommend a system?

To give you an accurate recommendation, send us:

  1. Close-up seam/rib photo: Taken from the side so we can see the profile shape clearly
  2. Full roof photo: Wide shot showing the whole roof face, any valleys, dormers, or lower roofs
  3. Your location: City + province, or postal code
  4. Roof details: Approximate pitch, roof size, and panel type (if known)

With these, we can confirm panel compatibility and recommend a complete layout within 1 business day.

Ready to Get the Right System?

Send us your roof photos, location, and roof details. We'll confirm compatibility and recommend a complete layout—free, no obligation.

Request Free Layout Recommendation

Response within 1 business day • Serving all Canadian provinces