SnoRail™

SnoFence Systems Aluminum Assembly Components

The aluminum SnoRail 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 comes in 4′-12′ sections.

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. More details.

SnoFence Systems Brass Assembly Components

The brass SnoRail 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 the 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. 

Notes

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

Maintenance: SnoClip may need periodic maintenance. SnoClip 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. SnoClip should not be used with brass SnoRail/SnoFence.

Contact your distributor for pricing and ordering. Broken box quantities may incur additional charges.

S-5-ASF
Product packages in boxes of 50 and cases of 250.

SnoPost
Product packages in boxes of 50 and cases of 500.

S-5-AE
Product packages in boxes of 50 and cases of 250.

SnoPost E
Product packages in boxes of 50 and cases of 500.

Aluminum Coupling
Product packages in boxes of 50 and cases of 500.

SnoClip II
Product packages in boxes of 55 and cases of 220.

SnoClip III
Product packages in boxes of 35 and cases of 140.

S-5-BSF
Product packages in boxes of 24 and cases of 120.

SnoPost B
Product packages in boxes of 50 and cases of 500.

S-5-BE
Product packages in boxes of 24 and cases of 120.

SnoPost BE
Product packages in boxes of 50 and cases of 500.

Brass Coupling
Product packages in boxes of 50 and cases of 500.

Setscrews, flanged bolts and a screwgun bit tip are included in each box.

See our full line-up of clamps for detailed information and pricing.

To help you and your distributor design a SnoFence system for your purposes, check out our Web-based calculator.

Note: Do not use SnoFence with attachment spacing greater than 32" (81.3 cm). Custom SnoFence, Splice and SnoClips™ are available for seam spacing greater than 32" (81.3 cm). Please inquire through a distributor.

ALUMINUM SNORAIL
The aluminum SnoRail assembly is the perfect choice for most standing seam roofing materials.

BRASS SNORAIL
The brass SnoRail assembly is designed for use on copper batten or standing seam roofs.

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.

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.

Installation Is Easy
The SnoRail 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 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.

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.

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).

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″ (25 mm) and 1-3/4″ (44.5 mm) snap.SnoClip III has 3 locks and will work on seam heights of 1-3/4″ (44.5 mm) up to 3″ (76 mm) vertical seam. SnoClip may not be suitable for use on 3″ seams with horizontal orientation. Please call for more information.

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.

S-5!® ColorGard System Limited Lifetime Warranty

Why do we offer a Limited Lifetime Warranty?

The only snow retention system good enough to be warranted for the life of the roof. Virtually every snow retention company boasts about product superiority. It is increasingly difficult to distinguish fact from confusing sales hype and empty claims. But only ColorGard from S-5! offers a structural performance warranty for the life of the roof. That’s not an empty claim, puffy boast or wishy-washy sales rhetoric—it’s total, written assurance of system performance that no other manufacturer can match.

For over two decades, the ColorGard system has delivered proven performance in extensive independent laboratory testing and installations around the world. Using S-5! clamping technology and 100% non-corrosive metals (never plastic), ColorGard systems are custom engineered to meet the specific needs of each project.

Don’t let the rhetoric of competitors deceive you. At S-5! we put our money where our mouth is by introducing this industry first: We offer a lifetime warranty because we know that only the ColorGard system measures up to the task—not just for a few years, but for the life of the roof!

The ColorGard System Limited Lifetime Warranty provides:

The S-5! clamps will not pull off the seam, break or otherwise cause the system to release

The ColorGard crossmember and its anchorage will not buckle, break or otherwise fail under load

The ColorGard System will not corrode or cause corrosion of the roof

The ColorGard Snow Retention System will not damage the roof

The ColorGard System will color-match the roof for the life of the roof

The ColorGard System will perform for the life of the roof! All warranted projects are subject to inspection and review by the manufacturer, and the warranty does not cover circumstances over which we have no control, such as deficiency of the building structure or components that have been abused.

To learn how to obtain your ColorGard System Limited Lifetime Warranty, and for complete Terms and Conditions of the program, see below.

Get the help you need to design your own ColorGard system by using our Web-based calculator.

How To Obtain Your ColorGard System Warranty

Step 1: Calculate and print your system requirements using the S-5! ColorGard calculator. You are responsible for the accuracy of the input fields of the calculator.

Step 2: Fill the S-5!; ColorGard Warranty Online Application Form. The Application Form must be completed by the contractor that purchased and installed the ColorGard Snow Retention System.

Comply with all requirements and instructions on the Form and send it, along with all the related documents and the warranty application/inspection fee, to:

ColorGard Warranty
Metal Roof Innovations, Ltd.
8750 Walker Rd.
Colorado Springs, CO 80908

Step 3: Download the Inspection Criteria Form. These tips will help ensure you pass the inspection.

Step 4: Once a satisfactory Field Inspection Report is provided by a designated representative of the manufacturer, you will receive your ColorGard Limited Lifetime Warranty by mail. Download a sample.

When should a stainless steel SnoRod™ be used rather than aluminum?
The stainless steel SnoRod is more durable than aluminum, and suggested for projects where greater durability is needed, or when the stainless finish is desired for aesthetic reasons.

When should SnoFence™ be used rather than SnoRail?
SnoFence is somewhat stronger than SnoRail. Use it for increased durability or when the aesthetic look of two rails is desired.

When should SnoClips™ be used and how many are needed?
SnoClips will stop or retard the passage of snow and ice beneath the SnoRod. If other flashing elements (e.g., eave guttering accomplishes this purpose) are utilized, then it may not be necessary. Therefore, its use is somewhat discretionary, depending upon the eave details and project specifics. We recommend it in most cases.

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.