Yes, you likely need snow guards for shingle roofs if you live in a snowy region and your roof has a steep pitch (6/12 or higher).
Snow guards are particularly important if you have valuable property, walkways, or landscaping beneath your roofline that could end up damaged by falling snow and ice.
At Kickapoo Roofing, we’ve helped countless homeowners across La Crosse and the surrounding Wisconsin areas protect their properties with professional snow guard installation service.
We can help you make an informed decision on whether your roof really needs snow guards or not. Just give us a call at (608) 352-8688 to learn more.
What Are Snow Guards?
Snow guards are small, but very important devices installed on roofs to prevent large sheets of snow and ice from sliding off suddenly.
They are like traffic controllers for snow, helping to manage the amount of snow that leaves your roof, rather than letting it avalanche down all at once.
Why Are Snow Guards Important For Shingle Roofs?
While it’s true that shingle roofs naturally provide more friction than metal or slate roofs, reducing the speed at which snow slides off, they don’t completely prevent dangerous snow slides, especially when:
👉 The roof pitch is 6/12 or higher
👉 Large amounts of snow accumulate quickly
👉 Temperatures fluctuate, creating a slick layer of water beneath the snow
What Are The Risks Of Not Including Snow Guards On Your Roof?
While snow guards aren’t necessarily required for every roof, you may want to include them in your own roofing system to reduce the chance of potential problems from occurring.
Here are some of the risks involved with skipping snow guards during an asphalt shingle roof installation:
👉 Damaged Gutters and Downspouts
Ice dams can damage your gutters and downspouts, pulling them away from the roof and home with their weight. Snow guards stop this weight from affecting the gutter system, allowing water to flow freely from the home when it melts instead of contributing to the ice dam.
👉 Legal Liability
If your roof lacks proper snow guards, you may be legally liable if falling snow or ice causes injury to someone on your property. This falls under premises liability law, which states that property owners have a duty to maintain safe conditions. Installing snow guards is a preventive measure that can protect both passersby and you from potential lawsuits.
👉 Vehicle Damage
If there are no snow guards on the roof, any parked vehicle under it is at risk of damage. Snow guards slow down the melting process, and without them, large sheets of ice or snow can fall quickly, severely damaging your vehicle.
What Are The Common Types Of Snow Guards Used For Shingle Roofs?
There are a few options on the market to choose from when it comes to snow guards for asphalt shingle roofs. Here are two of the most commonly used:
#1 Snow Birds
Snow birds are the most common choice for shingle roofs and come in the form of small, individual guards. This type of snow guard is a particularly nice choice since they are visible from the ground and are easily customizable to match your roof color.
It’s also easy to install without compromising your roof’s durability and it’s effective for moderate snow loads, releasing snow at even rates instead of all at once.
#2 Snow Rails
While snow rails are more commonly seen on metal roofs, they can still be used for shingle roofs in areas that receive heavy amounts of snow.
Snow rails come in the form of long bars instead of individual units and are best for shingle roofs with extremely steep pitches, or those that have surfaces and landscaping below that need to be protected.
Final Thoughts
Investing in snow guards is a smart decision for many homeowners with shingle roofs, especially if they live in areas with frequent periods of snow or if you have a steep roof.
While they’re not necessary for every home, the protection they provide often outweighs the initial investment, making them worth it in the long run.
If you’re considering snow guards for your shingle roof in La Crosse, or the surrounding Wisconsin communities, Kickapoo Roofing can help you assess your needs and provide expert roofing services. Contact us for a professional evaluation of your roof’s snow retention needs.
Also Read: How To Prevent Gutter Damage From Snow
Get Professional Roofing Services In Wisconsin
At Kickapoo Roofing, we are committed to providing professional roofing services in La Crosse and the surrounding areas of Wisconsin. From minor repairs to full roof replacements, our professional team will make sure that you have valuable results for the investment you make in your roofing system.
When you choose us for snow roof installation or any other roofing needs, you’re partnering with a team that puts quality, safety, and customer satisfaction first. To discuss your concerns with our professionals, feel free to give us a call at (608) 352-8688.
FAQ’s
A. The cost varies based on the size of your roof and the type of guard you’re using. Typically, the price ranges from around $5 to $15 per snow guard, plus installation. However, In order for snow guards such as snow birds to be effective, they must be spaced out evenly across the roof.
A. Modern snow guards are designed to blend with your roofing system. They’re available in various colors to match your shingles and are relatively unobtrusive when properly installed.
A. While DIY installation is possible, professional installation ensures the snow guards are properly placed on the roof and prevent damage from occurring. Installing the guards incorrectly can lead to leaks and reduced effectiveness, so it’s important to ask a professional for help.
A. Quality snow guards, when professionally installed, generally last as long as your roofing system. They’re designed to withstand severe weather conditions and heavy snow loads, making them perfect for asphalt roofs.