Do You Need Snow Guards on a Metal Roof? A Colorado Homeowner’s Guide to Snow Retention

Standing seam metal roofing is one of the best systems for Colorado mountain homes. It is durable, low-maintenance, and designed to shed snow efficiently.

That snow-shedding ability also creates a concern. Large sections of snow can release from a metal roof at once, putting walkways, entrances, decks, gutters, vehicles, and landscaping at risk.

A properly designed snow retention system helps control how that snow releases.

At Axtell Mtn Construction, we install metal roofing and snow retention systems throughout Durango, Gunnison, Crested Butte, Pagosa Springs, Bayfield, Cortez, Dolores, Telluride, Silverton, Ouray, and surrounding Western Colorado communities.

Preparing for the 2026-27 El Niño Winter

According to the NOAA Climate Prediction Center, El Niño is strengthening, with more than a 90% chance of becoming a very strong event during fall and winter 2026-27.

El Niño does not guarantee how much snow one Colorado community will receive. However, it can influence storm tracks, precipitation, and changing winter conditions.

For homeowners in Colorado’s mountain communities, the forecast is a good reason to inspect roofing, snow retention, gutters, valleys, and drainage before winter arrives.

Does Your Metal Roof Need Snow Guards?

If your roof sheds snow toward an area used by people or located above valuable property, snow retention should be considered.

Common areas that need protection include:

• Main entrances
• Walkways
• Decks and patios
• Driveways
• Parked vehicles
• Garage doors
• Lower roof sections
• Gutters and downspouts
• Gas meters and utility equipment
• 
  

Snow retention is especially important on long or steep roof sections where snow can build up before releasing.

What Does a Snow Retention System Do?

A snow retention system helps hold and distribute snow across the roof instead of allowing it to slide off in one large section.

Systems may include individual snow guards, rails, bars, or continuous snow fences.

At Axtell, we install S-5!® and ColorGard® snow retention systems for standing seam and exposed fastener metal roofs.

These systems can be designed to work with the roof profile and match the metal color.

Why Proper Design Matters

Snow retention is not a one-size-fits-all product.

The system must be designed around:

• Roof pitch
• Roof length
• Local snow conditions
• Metal panel type
• Panel gauge
• Seam profile
• Roof valleys and transitions
• Areas requiring protection

The number of rows and placement of the system will vary by property.

Bottom Line

Installing a few snow guards above one doorway may not be enough. The full roof section and expected snow load should be evaluated.

Can Snow Guards Be Added to an Existing Roof?

Yes. Snow retention can often be added to an existing metal roof.

The roof should first be inspected for loose panels, damaged seams, failing fasteners, existing leaks, rust, and previous repairs.

Standing seam roofs may allow compatible clamps to attach directly to the raised seams without penetrating the panels. Exposed fastener roofs may require a different attachment method.

Snow Retention Is Only One Part of the System

Snow retention controls snow movement. Gutters, valleys, downspouts, and heat cable help manage the water created as snow melts.

For many Colorado mountain homes, the right winter system may include:

• Engineered snow retention
• Heavy-gauge steel gutters
• Clear valley drainage
• Integrated heat cable
• Proper flashing
• Seasonal roof inspections

Axtell evaluates these systems together so snow and water have a planned path away from the home.

Schedule a Snow Retention Assessment

The best time to inspect your snow retention system is before the roof is covered in snow and ice.

Axtell Mtn Construction can evaluate your metal roof, identify areas at risk, and recommend a snow retention and drainage system designed for your property.

Schedule your snow retention assessment before the 2026-27 winter season.

Frequently Asked Questions