Winter in Montana is beautiful—but let’s be honest, it’s not gentle. If you live in Park City, MT, you’ve probably seen snow come crashing off a roof all at once. Maybe it ripped off a gutter. Maybe it crushed a shrub. Maybe it missed your car by inches. Either way, it made you think: “There’s got to be a better way.”
There is. They’re called snow guards for metal roofs—small, reliable add-ons that stop dangerous snow slides before they start. And when they’re installed correctly, they’re one of the smartest winter upgrades a homeowner can make.
Let’s walk through how they work, why they matter, and how Kirkness Roofing can help protect your home and the people around it.
What You’ll Learn in This Post
- Why snow slides happen—and why metal roofs are more prone to them
- What snow guards do and how they improve winter roof safety
- Key considerations before installing snow guards in Park City
- The long-term benefits of snow retention systems
- How Kirkness Roofing tailors solutions for your specific roof
Need a roof safety check before winter? Schedule your free inspection with Kirkness Roofing.
Why Snow Guards Matter on Metal Roofs in Montana
Metal roofs are fantastic for durability and snow-shedding. That’s part of the appeal—until 500 pounds of snow suddenly slides off your roof and onto your front steps.
In Park City, MT, snow loads build up fast. Then sun or warm attic air melts the bottom layer, loosening the entire pack. Gravity takes over, and snow drops in one massive sheet. These roof snow slides can:
- Tear off gutters and flashing
- Crush shrubs, HVAC units, or outdoor furniture
- Block doors and walkways
- Injure people or pets
Snow guards work like small speed bumps on your roof. They keep the snow in place, letting it melt and drain slowly. That means fewer surprises—and fewer repair bills.
Before You Install: What Park City Homeowners Should Know About Snow Guards
We love a well-informed decision. Before adding snow guards to your metal roof, take a moment to understand what goes into the project.
1. Understand the Costs
Adding snow retention is a low-cost investment compared to emergency repairs or injury liability. Most installations are straightforward, and we offer estimates so there are no surprises.
2. Choose Snow Guards That Fit Your Roof Type
Not all snow guards are created equal. We’ll recommend systems based on your roof profile—standing seam, corrugated, or exposed fastener—to ensure proper fit and performance.
3. Know the Local Rules
In Park City, most homes won’t need a permit for snow guards, but some HOAs have exterior rules. We’ve worked with local associations and can help navigate those conversations.
4. Evaluate Your Roof’s Pitch and Layout
Steep, south-facing metal roofs are more likely to shed snow suddenly. Entryways, garages, and walkways underneath are the biggest risk zones. We’ll help you plan placement for maximum protection.
Top 5 Benefits of Installing Snow Guards on Your Metal Roof
You’re not just adding hardware to your home—you’re solving real problems. Here’s what snow guards bring to the table:
1. Prevent Injuries from Snow Slides
This is the big one. Snow guards help prevent snow from falling all at once, keeping walkways and entrances safer for you, your family, and anyone coming to your door.
2. Protect Gutters, Flashing, and Roof Edges
When snow slides, it doesn’t leave gently. It often takes gutters and flashing with it. Snow guards slow the snow’s movement to reduce that stress.
3. Shield Landscaping and Vehicles
You put time and money into your yard—and maybe that car in the driveway. Snow retention keeps heavy snow from sliding off and smashing what’s below.
4. Lower Your Liability Risk
If someone gets injured on your property because of falling snow, you could be held responsible. Snow guards help reduce that risk significantly.
5. Help Your Roof Last Longer
By spreading out snow loads and reducing sudden shifts, snow guards minimize wear and tear on your roof system over time.
Want more ideas to prep your home for winter? Read our guide: How to Prepare Your Roof for Montana’s Snowy Winters.
What Makes a Good Snow Guard System? Let’s Break It Down.
At Kirkness Roofing, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Your roof is unique—so your snow retention solution should be too. Here’s what we look at when recommending snow guards.
Snow Guard Material Types
- Polycarbonate (plastic): Affordable, UV-resistant, perfect for most residential roofs
- Aluminum or Steel: Stronger, more durable—great for high snow loads or commercial applications
- Bar or Rail Systems: Better for wider roofs or areas that need consistent snow retention coverage
Warranties and Durability
Most guards last 20+ years, and the systems we install are backed by solid manufacturer warranties. We also stand behind our workmanship—so if something’s not right, we fix it.
Best Roof Zones for Snow Guards in Park City
We recommend installing snow guards above:
- Entrances and garages
- Walkways and decks
- Driveways or parking areas
- Anywhere foot traffic is likely
We know the layout of homes in Park City well—and we’ll recommend the right placement based on your roof, slope, and snow history.
Park City Roofing FAQs: Snow Guards and Metal Roof Safety
Do I need snow guards if I have a metal roof in Park City, MT?
Yes. If your metal roof sheds snow onto areas where people walk or park, you should install snow guards. In Park City’s snowy climate, they provide critical protection for high-traffic areas.
Are snow guards required by Montana building code?
No, snow guards are not required by code for residential homes in Montana. But they are highly recommended—especially in places like Park City where snow falls often and in large amounts.
Can snow guards be added to an existing roof?
Yes, snow guards can be installed on existing roofs. There are clamp-on and adhesive options that work without drilling holes or compromising the roof surface.
Will snow guards damage my metal roof?
No, when installed correctly, snow guards won’t damage your roof. We select the proper attachment method for your roof type to maintain weather-tight protection.
Can snow guards be used with solar panels?
Yes, snow guards can be installed alongside solar panels. We’ll design a system that works around your array to manage snow effectively without interfering with solar output.
How long do snow guards last in Montana weather?
Most snow guards last two decades or more. We use products tested for snow load, wind, and freeze-thaw conditions common in Park City and across Montana.
Protect Your Roof and Everyone Under It
In Montana, winter is guaranteed—but injuries and damage from falling snow don’t have to be. Snow guards for metal roofs are a simple, cost-effective way to prevent roof snow slides and protect your home for the long haul.
At Kirkness Roofing, we’ve seen what works and what doesn’t across 40+ years of roofing in Montana. If you’re ready to install snow guards—or want to see if your roof needs them—we’re here with honest answers, certified crews, and top-quality materials.
Schedule your free inspection today and let’s get your roof—and your home—ready for winter.