Protect Your Home and Family This Winter With Snow Retention Systems

By Anna Lockhart.  

Tune in to hear what Mindy Dahlquist had to say about the dangers of heavy snow accumulation on homes and buildings in the latest MetalCast episode.  

As many states across the country gear up for another snowy winter ahead, many home and business owners should consider investing in proper snow retention systems. Snow retention systems can help keep your loved ones and property safe from damage or serious harm. Because these systems are so crucial, even lifesaving, Mindy Dahlquist from TRA Snow & Sun joined Heidi J. Ellsworth on the latest MetalCast episode to discuss the importance of snow retention systems and winter safety.  

For those living in areas where heavy snowfall is common, snow retention on a roof is unavoidable. However, making sure that the snow doesn’t accumulate to dangerous amounts by installing retention systems on metal roofs can help break up collections of snow in a safe and regulated manner. Mindy explained, “Snow is mostly going to start at the ridge of the home since that heat rises to the highest point of the roof. But you just have a lack of friction on the roof.” She continued, “And unfortunately with metal roofs, they are extremely slippery, so they're going to heat up a little bit easier from the backside since metal is a conductive material, and then you're going to have that water that's coming down, all those weather patterns that we unfortunately see all winter long where you think spring is coming, but it's just not there yet.” 

Mindy elaborated on the way snow retention systems work, explaining that by holding the snow in place long enough, it allows it to melt at a controlled rate. This process creates a measured and less risky amount of snowfall, keeping the property and any people passing by safe from harm.  

It is important to recognize that each home and building will likely have different retention system needs. Mindy emphasized that when considering installing a snow retention system, it’s important to consult with a professional familiar with the systems and process, as it is a unique fit for each roof. “There's not a one size fits all answer for anyone. Even if you and your neighbors who are just a little bit lower on the mountain from you, or down the hill, down the road and they have a slightly different pitched roof or a slightly different material on the roof, their snow retention system's going to be completely different.” 

Listen to the podcast, watch the video or read the transcription to learn more about TRA Snow&Sun and the importance of snow retention systems!