SnoFence™

Metal Roof Snow Fence Guard

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S-5-ASF Clamp

SnoPost™

S-5-AE™ and SnoPost™

SnoRod™

SnoRod™ Coupling

SnoClip™

S-5-BSF Clamp

SnoPost™

S-5-BE™ Clamp and SnoPost-BE™

SnoRod™

SnoRod™ Coupling

Snow Retention Solutions

SnoFence™ Metal Roof Snow Fence Guard

Offered in aluminum or brass, our snow fence systems are designed to manage snow migration on standing seam metal roofing. Their clean lines, cylindrical shapes and high-tech appearance make these snow guards rail systems the favorite choice of architects and roof designers.

Overview

Why SnoFence?

When snow accumulations begin to melt, the result can be catastrophic as the blanket of snow avalanches off the roof dumping tons of snow onto anything in its path. It can damage landscape, gutters, adjacent roofs, vehicles and cause injury or death to passers-by. SnoFence retention systems dramatically reduce these risks associated with rooftop avalanches, maintaining the clean lines of the roof and lasting as long as the roof itself! These metal roofing snow fence systems can be designed and engineered on a site-specific basis.

Architects and roof designers agree: The clean lines, cylindrical shapes and high-tech look of our SnoFence systems present an attractive solution to snow retention problems! They function without cluttering the lines of the roof.

With up to six times the strength of adhesively-mounted devices, and without the high labor costs and inconsistencies of soldered snow guards, S-5!® offers the perfect, long term, dependable solution for traditional standing seam and sheet copper roofing.

SnoFence metal roof snow fence guard systems are mechanically attached with S-5-ASF and S-5-BSF aluminum or brass clamps utilizing our round-point setscrews—designed not to “pin” or “fix” the roof panels to the building, leaving thermal movement unrestricted. The clamps are precision-machined from aircraft quality materials, not cast or plastic. All related hardware is non-ferrous, compatible stainless steel or brass for lasting performance.

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Clamp To Seam Tool

Snow Retention Calculator

Case Studies

Clamps and Brackets Lists

Components

SnoFence Systems Aluminum Assembly Components

The aluminum SnoFence assembly is the perfect choice for most standing seam roofing materials.

S-5-ASF Clamp: These aluminum clamps are designed to fit either vertical or horizontal seam profiles (rotating 90º) having a finished seam (thickness) dimension of .40″ or less. The clamp is specially designed for versatility on a variety of standing panel seams and profiles—both architectural and structural.

SnoPost™: The stainless SnoPost, when threaded into the clamp provides for the addition of a second SnoRod about 2” above the first. This double rod configuration called SnoFence™ and is more durable for heavier service load conditions.

S-5-AE™ and SnoPost E™: The S-5-AE clamp and SnoPost E are used at the rate of one per 50′ of assembly, and at the ends of the assembly to “fix” the SnoRod, preventing lateral movement.

SnoRod™: The stainless SnoRod is inserted through the S-5-ASF clamps, placing it just above the panel seams. Add a second SnoRod through the SnoPosts for a SnoFence system. Contact your S-5! distributor for pricing on SnoRod.

SnoRod Coupling: The coupling assures end-to-end rod alignment and continuity.

SnoClip™: SnoClips can be added to your SnoRail or SnoFence system to retard the migration of snow and ice beneath the SnoRod.

SnoFence Systems Brass Assembly Components

The brass SnoFence assembly is designed for use on copper batten or standing seam roofs.

S-5-BSF Clamp: These brass clamps are designed to fit traditional double-folded, horizontal seam profiles having a finished seam (thickness) dimension of .25″ or less. The clamp is specially designed for versatility on a variety of standing panel seams and profiles—both architectural and structural. All components come with required hardware.

SnoPost: The brass SnoPost, when threaded into the clamp, provides for the addition of a second SnoRod about 2″ above the first. This double rod configuration, called SnoFence, and is more durable for heavier service load conditions.

S-5-BE™ Clamp and SnoPost BE™: The S-5-BE clamp and SnoPost BE are used at the rate of one per 50′ of assembly, and at the ends of the assembly to “fix” the SnoRod, preventing lateral movement.

SnoRod: The brass SnoRod is inserted through the S-5-BSF clamps, placing it just above the panel seams. Add a second SnoRod through the SnoPosts for a SnoFence system. Contact your S-5! distributor for pricing on SnoRod.

SnoRod Coupling: The coupling assures end-to-end rod alignment and continuity.

SnoClip: Retards migration of snow and ice. SnoClip is an aluminum add-on that helps retard the migration of snow and ice beneath either the ColorGard® crossmember, or the SnoRod of a SnoRail or SnoFence system. It has a special integrated rubber “foot” to prevent abrasion of the panel’s finish. SnoClip slides onto the crossmember or rod and extends down to the flat of the roofing panel.

Packaging

Installation

Building Your SnoFence Snow Retention System

SnoRail System in Aluminum

One SnoRod is inserted through the S-5-ASF or S-5-BSF clamps, positioning it just above the panel seams. The resulting assembly is called SnoRail.

SnoFence System in Brass

With an assembled SnoRail System, simply thread one SnoPost into the S-5-ASF or S-5-BSF clamp, and then add a second SnoRod 2" above the first. The resulting double rod assembly is called a SnoFence.

Installation Is Easy

The SnoRail and SnoFence Systems are available with the S-5-BSF brass clamp for use on copper batten or copper standing seam metal roofs, and with the S-5-ASF aluminum clamp for other standing seam roofing materials. The SnoRod and SnoPost are available in brass and stainless.

The extraordinary strength of the SnoRail and SnoFence Snow Retention Systems is in the S-5! clamps. The S-5-ASF and S-5-BSF clamps mechanically attach to the panel seam by inserting and tightening our round-point setscrews to the specified tension. These screws will slightly dimple the seam material, but not puncture it. Our clamps offer durability unequaled by chemical bonds and adhesives that degrade with time and exposure.

SnoClips are highly advised on seams of 2″ (50 mm) and higher. They are recommended but not mandatory on seam heights of 1-3/4″ and lower (45mm). They retard movement of snow and ice beneath the crossmember. SnoClip is not always an option as some metal roofing panels have minor ribs or striations that will not allow the SnoClip to function properly. SnoClips can be used on a striated panel but the results may vary. SnoClips come in two styles–SnoClip II™ and SnoClip III™. SnoClip II fits seam heights of 1-3/4″ (45mm) and lower. SnoClip III fits seam heights of 1-3/4″ to 3″ vertical seam. When multiple rows of assembly are being used, SnoClips are always placed on the bottom row. Their use on other rows is optional and left to user discretion. Typically only one SnoClip per panel is required but may be used more frequently if desired (two SnoClips are needed on panels that have a seam height of 2-3/4″ or taller).

Using SnoClip™

IMPORTANT NOTICE! — SnoClip design has changed. SnoClip must now slide on from the end of the ColorGard® crossmember. Be sure to slide SnoClip onto assembly before attaching crossmember to clamps.

One SnoClip is used between seams (in some cases two SnoClips may be desired). Mount the SnoClip to the back of the crossmember or rod (on SnoFence, only use the lower rod, never use the top rod) using the lock that results with the rubber “foot” resting properly on the panel surface. When applying downward pressure on the part, the “toe” should engage the surface of the panel just before the “heel.”

Which SnoClip is Right for the Job?

SnoClip II has 2 locks and is especially made for seam heights of 1" (25mm) and 1-3/4" (44.5 mm) snap.

SnoClip III has 3 locks and will work on seam heights of 1-3/4" (44.5mm) up to " (76mm) vertical seam.

Notes

Caution: SnoClips may not be suitable for use on 3″ seams with horizontal orientation. Please call for more information.

Maintenance: SnoClips may need periodic maintenance. SnoClips may migrate laterally; this does not affect its performance. Some adjustment may be desired (a small dab of silicone can be used inside or alongside the SnoClip lock to prevent this).

Do not use SnoClip spacing greater than 24″. Custom-length SnoClips are available for special situations. Please inquire through a distributor. SnoClips should not be used with brass SnoRail/SnoFence.

Severe roof/eave icing may damage any snow retention system.

Severe Icing: Severe icing and the formation of “ice dams” at roof eaves is neither caused by, nor cured by, snow retention and can be very detrimental to any roof system and any snow retention assembly. Freezing water is capable of cracking solid steel engine blocks, and can wreak havoc with rooftops. If roof is prone to severe icing, it is suggested that self-regulating de-icification cables be installed to assist in preserving the integrity of both the roof material and the snow retention system.

STEP 1: Before You Start

First, use a string line across the top of the panel seams at the desired location to establish a true line for installation of the S-5!® clamps. Individually measuring each clamp location from the eave is not recommended. When installing clamps on roof panels which utilize a two-piece panel attachment clip, or on double folded standing seam profiles which use a “fixed clip”, the clamp may be installed at a clip location if desired. In the case of other system profiles utilizing a one-piece clip, the clip locations should be avoided.

STEP 2: Preparing The Assembly

Assemble all setscrews to all clamps, and if the system is SnoFence, thread all SnoPosts™ into clamps. Tighten the SnoPost all the way into the clamp, being sure that the rod hole in the SnoPost is parallel with the rod hole in the clamp. Thread an appropriate number of clamp assemblies onto the SnoRod™. Take care that the orientation of all clamps on the rod is the same. For vertical seams, determine which side of the seam should be engaged by the setscrew. On folded seam profiles, the setscrew should engage the folding contours rather than the smooth side of the seam. On horizontal seams, rotate the clamps so that setscrews can be tightened from the top side of the seam. Use one “E” unit (both clamp and SnoPost) per 48′ of assembly, and at the ends of each assembly to “fix” the SnoRod, preventing lateral movement. Assemble an appropriate number of “E” assemblies (with clamp and post, if applicable). Be sure that “E” units are used on the first and last rods and every 48′. Other than the small setscrew holes provided in “E” units, they are identical to the standard components.

STEP 3: Install The Assembly

Position the clamp assembly appropriately on the panel seams, using the string line as a guide and loose-fit all clamps to panel seams. Do not tighten setscrews onto seams at this time, but hand tighten if necessary, just enough to hold the assembly on the roof. Insert the second SnoRod through the SnoPosts and adjust it laterally to the desired location.

STEP 4: Tighten All Setscrews

After the second (upper) rod has been fitted through the SnoPosts, the clamp’s screws can be tightened. Using an Allen wrench attachment tip for a 1/4″ drive screwgun, tighten and re-tighten setscrews as the seam material compresses. (These screwgun tips are available from your S-5! product distributor.) On low seam profiles, a 4″ bit extension on the screwgun will facilitate this work.

CAUTION: Holding strength of S-5! clamps is highly dependent upon setscrew tension. Consult your distributor or the S-5! website for screw tension when relying on tested holding strength. Most industrial grade screwguns are rated at 115 inch-pounds tightening torque and will deliver between 115 and 150 inch-pounds (13-17 Nm) at the highest torque setting. These tensions will not harm most panel seam profiles and materials. For critical installations, screw tension should be periodically verified as tested using a torque-indicating wrench.

Building Your SnoFence Snow Retention System

SnoRail System in Aluminum

One SnoRod is inserted through the S-5-ASF or S-5-BSF clamps, positioning it just above the panel seams. The resulting assembly is called SnoRail.

SnoFence System in Brass

With an assembled SnoRail System, simply thread one SnoPost into the S-5-ASF or S-5-BSF clamp, and then add a second SnoRod 2" above the first. The resulting double rod assembly is called a SnoFence.

Installation Is Easy

Using SnoClip™

IMPORTANT NOTICE! — SnoClip design has changed. SnoClip must now slide on from the end of the ColorGard® crossmember. Be sure to slide SnoClip onto assembly before attaching crossmember to clamps.

Which SnoClip is Right for the Job?

SnoClip II has 2 locks and is especially made for seam heights of 1" (25mm) and 1-3/4" (44.5 mm) snap.

SnoClip III has 3 locks and will work on seam heights of 1-3/4" (44.5mm) up to " (76mm) vertical seam.

Notes

Caution: SnoClips may not be suitable for use on 3″ seams with horizontal orientation. Please call for more information.

Severe roof/eave icing may damage any snow retention system.

FAQs

CHECK OUT OUR OTHER SNOW RETENTION SOLUTION ITEMS..

ColorGuard®

ColorGard is the only snow retention system good enough to be warranted for the life of the roof. Unlike other snow guards that yellow and fail over time, ColorGard’s unsurpassed holding strength controls snow migration with a perfect color-match that lasts the life of the roof.

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X-Gard™ 1.0

X-Gard 1.0 is our two-pipe system spanning up to 48″ seams. Like our one-pipe system, X-Gard has greater holding strength, better aesthetics, and longer service life than any other engineered pipe system on the market.

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X-Gard™ 2.0

X-Gard 2.0 is our two-pipe system spanning up to 48″ seams. Like our one-pipe system, X-Gard has greater holding strength, better aesthetics, and longer service life than any other engineered pipe system on the market.

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SnoRail™

Our SnoRail utilizes one Sno-Rod™ positioned just above the panel seams for maximum strength and minimal clutter.

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SnoFence™

S-5!’s SnoFence uses a SnoPost™ to accommodate a second SnoRod™ two inches above the first. Both SnoRail and SnoFence systems are available in brass for use on copper batten or standing seam roofs and in aluminum for other standing seam roofing materials.

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DualGard™

DualGard™ is the most versatile and reliable 1-inch, two-pipe snow retention system on the market for all standing seam roof applications. DualGard utilizes two patented S-5! mini clamps for extra strength versus other two-pipe systems. All DualGard components can be used with VersaGard™ and VersaGard™ V, offering a complete snow retention system for exposed fasten roofs.

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VersaGard™

VersaGard is compatible with almost any trapezoidal, exposed-fastened profile. No messy sealants to apply! No chance for leaks! VersaGard comes with factory-applied butyl sealant already in the base, and the S-5! patented reservoir conceals the sealant from UV exposure, preventing drying and cracks.

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SnoFence™

Metal Roof Snow Fence Guard

Find out what your product would look like.

Snow Retention Solutions

SnoFence™ Metal Roof Snow Fence Guard

Overview

Why SnoFence?

Product Downloads

Components

SnoFence Systems Aluminum Assembly Components

SnoFence Systems Brass Assembly Components

Packaging

Installation

Building Your SnoFence Snow Retention System

Notes

STEP 1: Before You Start

STEP 2: Preparing The Assembly

STEP 3: Install The Assembly

STEP 4: Tighten All Setscrews

Building Your SnoFence Snow Retention System

Notes

FAQs

Related Products

CHECK OUT OUR OTHER SNOW RETENTION SOLUTION ITEMS..

ColorGuard®

X-Gard™ 1.0

X-Gard™ 2.0

SnoRail™

SnoFence™

DualGard™

VersaGard™

The Metal Roofing Learning Center

Let your imagination run wild!

COLOR & PRODUCT VISUALIZER