Snow Guards by The Brothers that just do Gutters in Southwest Houston, TX

Snow guards are most commonly recommended for homes or commercial buildings with steeply pitched roofs or those constructed from materials such as metal, slate, or wood. These types of surfaces tend to be smoother and offer little resistance to snow movement, increasing the likelihood of dangerous snow slides. In contrast, asphalt roofs generally provide enough surface friction to minimize that risk under typical winter conditions.

During heavy snowfall—especially when the snow is wet—it can accumulate and compact into dense layers. As temperatures drop overnight, this compacted snow often freezes into a solid mass. Even with proper attic insulation, heat from inside the building can rise and slightly warm the roof surface, creating a slick layer that allows these frozen snow masses to slide off with significant force. Snow guards help mitigate this hazard by holding the snow in place, allowing it to melt gradually and safely.

In regions with prolonged cold weather, snow and ice may persist and continue to accumulate without melting naturally. In such cases, supplemental heating systems may be used to assist in controlled melting. While heat tape is a common solution, it’s not ideal for all roof types due to potential fire risks and warranty concerns. Instead, there are safer and more effective alternatives, such as professionally installed low-voltage heating systems, which can be customized to work in tandem with snow guards for optimal protection.