Snow Guards in Boulder and NE Denver, CO

What are snow guards?

Snow guards are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and designs to suit different roofing needs. Their main purpose is to keep snow and ice from sliding off your roof in large, potentially dangerous sheets. Instead of allowing snow to fall all at once onto driveways, walkways, vehicles, or landscaping below, snow guards work by holding the accumulation in place. This allows the snow and ice to melt slowly and safely under the warmth of the sun or ambient heat, reducing the risk of sudden slides and the damage they can cause.

Snow Guards in Boulder, Brighton, Denver, Longmont, CO and the Surrounding Areas

When it comes to protecting your home or business in Boulder and Northeast Denver, CO, from the harsh realities of winter, The Brothers that just do Gutters offer a smart solution with professionally installed roof snow guards. With unpredictable snowstorms and frequent temperature fluctuations in the Colorado Front Range, it’s critical to have a reliable system in place that prevents heavy snow and ice from sliding off your roof and causing damage or injury below.

At Brothers Gutters, we specialize in custom snow guard solutions that are tailored to the unique needs of your roof and the local climate. Whether your property has a standing seam metal roof, slate tiles, cedar shakes, or another type of roofing material, our experts will recommend the most effective snow retention system for optimal safety and performance.

Snow guards are particularly important for buildings with steeply pitched roofs or roofing materials like slate, wood shakes, or metal panels. These roof types create a smooth surface that allows snow and ice to slide off easily, especially during freeze-thaw cycles common in colder climates. In contrast, asphalt shingles generally have a textured surface that naturally slows snow movement, reducing the need for added protection.

During heavy snowfall, especially when the snow is wet, layers can compress and refreeze into dense, heavy slabs of ice overnight. These frozen masses can suddenly release and slide off the roof, posing serious risks to anything—or anyone—below. Even with proper attic insulation, heat from the home can warm the roof’s underside just enough to loosen the snowpack, triggering dangerous slides. That’s where snow guards come in. They are strategically placed to hold snow in place, allowing it to melt gradually and safely.

In areas with harsh winters and persistent snow accumulation, it’s not uncommon for snow and ice to pile up without melting efficiently. To assist with this, some homeowners may turn to heating systems to encourage steady melting. However, we advise caution when considering solutions like heat tape. Many roofing manufacturers void warranties if heat tape is used, and there’s also a risk of electrical hazards. Instead, we recommend safer, more effective alternatives tailored to your roof type and climate.

By integrating snow guards into your roofing system, you’re not only protecting your property from damage but also enhancing overall safety during winter months. Whether it’s for a residential home or a commercial building, properly installed snow guards are a smart, proactive solution for managing snow load and preventing hazardous roof avalanches.

Selecting the appropriate type of snow guard depends largely on the specific roofing material and design of your residential or commercial property.

Lexan snow guards offer a discreet, low-profile solution that blends seamlessly with your roof while delivering reliable performance. Known for their transparency and strength, Lexan guards are ideal for maintaining the clean aesthetic of your roofline without compromising durability. These guards are especially effective on metal roofing systems, as they are installed using a specialized weather-resistant adhesive, eliminating the need for penetrating fasteners. This helps preserve the roof’s structural integrity and significantly reduces the risk of corrosion or leaks over time. Lexan is also UV-resistant and built to endure harsh environmental conditions, making it a smart, long-lasting choice for snow retention.
When working with roofing materials like cedar shakes or stone tiles, aluminum is often the preferred choice due to its durability and compatibility. Aluminum is valued in gutter installations for its natural resistance to corrosion, which helps extend the system’s life. In addition to its strength, aluminum is also lightweight and environmentally friendly, making it an ideal option for homeowners looking for a sustainable and long-lasting solution. Its ability to withstand the elements without rusting ensures reliable performance, even in challenging climates.
Metal roofs are available in a variety of materials, including aluminum, copper, galvanized steel, and galvalume steel. To avoid corrosion issues, it’s recommended to use snow guards made from the same metal alloy as the roof. Mixing different metals can create chemical reactions due to varying alkalinity levels, leading to accelerated corrosion. While insulating barriers can sometimes be installed between different metals to reduce this risk, exposure to rainwater often still forms an electrolytic or corrosive bridge. Over time, this can compromise the roof’s integrity and result in costly repairs. Choosing compatible materials is key to ensuring the longevity and performance of both your roof and snow guard system.

Get Expert Snow Guard Installation Services

While high-quality snow guards are essential, they often work best when combined with other complementary measures to deliver comprehensive protection. Connect with one of our experienced solution specialists today to determine if snow guards are the right fit for your property.