Q&A With the Snow Guard Expert

By DaVinci Roofscapes. 

Here’s what this expert has to say about his experience manufacturing snow retention systems. 

Out of the four manufacturers of snow retention systems in the USA, Rocky Mountain Snow Guards, Inc. is the only company who solely focuses on snow retention. At DaVinci Roofscapes, we’re proud to do business with Rocky Mountain Snow Guards and recently we spoke with its President, Lars Walberg, about his many years of experience with making snow guards.  

Q: What sets Rocky Mountain Snow Guards apart in the marketplace?  

A: We’re unique in that we design and sell complete snow retention systems for any type of roofing system, whether on a residence or commercial project. Our systems are sold nationwide, and we sold  more than 900 of them generally each year. Plus, we offer a 50-year warranty on our systems when installed in accordance with our designs. 

Q: Your site shows a wide variety of snow retention systems. How does a roofer know which one is best to use on their roofing project? 

A: Searching by roof type is the best way to find what a roofer needs. Go to our website, www.rockymountainsnowguards.com. That’s where a contractor can find the appropriate snow guard and retention system for their project. There’s also an online request form there or roofers can call us at 877-414-7606. 

Q: What’s the most popular snow retention type product for DaVinci composite slate shingles and simulated shake roofing? 

A: For DaVinci roofing products, the SnowTrapper line is the most popular of our products. We have different models that work for each DaVinci product for both new and retrofit applications. There are different styles and sizes, we’re happy to work directly with roofers on product selections and needs. 

Q: Let’s talk specifically about synthetic roofing materials. What advice do you have for roofers installing or retrofitting composite slate or synthetic shake roofs? 

A: First of all, roofers need to understand that all composite and synthetic roof tiles are slippery. They won’t hold snow, regardless of the pitch. Snow will definitely slide off polymer roofing, even if you have a low 4/12 pitch. In fact, snow will accumulate more on a lower pitch than on a higher pitch before it slides, which can cause greater potential for damage. 

Q: So, what should a roofer do? 

A: Don’t skimp on snow guards and make sure they’re properly specified and installed. We run into situations where contractors buy a box of 50 or 100 snow guards for a 40 or 50 square roof. One or two snow guards per 100 square feet of roofing area just won’t do the job. The polymer designer roof needs a “system” to reduce the potential for a “catastrophic release” where all the snow comes down in an avalanche and has the potential to harm people and property. Work with us on a specific plan for a roof and you will find the homeowners are far happier in the long run with their snow guard system. 

Have a question? AskARoofer. 

Find your local roofing contractor in the RoofersCoffeeShop® Contractor Directory. 

Original article source: DaVinci Roofscapes