The third party reason why snow retention is necessary for metal roofs is to protect the roof itself from damage. Without snow retention, heavy snow loads can pull off other components attached to the roof. It isn’t uncommon for pipes, satellite dishes and gutters to be completely torn out of metal panels by heavy snow loads. When this happens, not only do the parts that were dislodged by the snow need to be replaced, but the metal panels where those parts were attached are going to need to be replaced as well. In comparison to what this kind of damage can cost in repairs, a good snow retention system is well worth the investment.
Not having snow retention can not only cause damage to the metal roof itself, but also to the building structure. Snow that unevenly builds up in the valleys of metal roofs can cause leaks and structural damage. Properly installed and positioned snow retention systems will insure that snow remains more evenly distributed so as not to overload any one point of the roof.
In addition to the potential for damage to the roof, there is potential for damage to the building foundation and siding. Snow and ice that falls off of a roof will build up along the sides of the home or building. This can cause damage to sliding and other components attached to the sides of a building. Also, as temperatures warm and the snow and ice begins to melt, the amount of snow and ice melting can heavily saturate the area around the building, causing the potential for leaks and can even compromise the integrity of the buildings foundation, resulting in the need for costly repairs