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Snow Retention Systems for Metal Roofing

Non-penetrating, engineered snow retention solutions backed by S-5!’s proven performance.

McElroy Metal partners with S-5!® to offer industry-leading snow retention systems engineered specifically for metal roofing. S-5!’s extensive product offering, non-penetrating attachment methods, and rigorous testing deliver reliable, roof-friendly solutions that help control snow movement and protect people, property, and landscaping below. With options for both standing seam and exposed-fastened panels, S-5! systems provide proven performance, long-term durability, and peace of mind in snow-prone environments.

What Is a Snow Retention System?

A snow retention system is designed to hold or slow the movement of snow and ice on a metal roof, reducing the risk of large, uncontrolled snow slides that can damage landscaping, equipment, or pose a risk to people below. These systems typically include rails, clamps, or brackets engineered to mount to the roof structure without compromising the panel or finish.

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Snow Retention Ideal Applications

  • Cold-climate regions where seasonal snow buildup is common.

  • High-elevation structures exposed to heavy snowfall.

  • Buildings with large roof areas or steep slopes.

  • Roofs above entrances, walkways, parking areas, or high-traffic zones.

  • Applications where sliding snow could damage landscaping, HVAC units, or equipment.

  • Residential, commercial, and industrial metal roof systems requiring controlled snow management. 

ColorGard Snow Retention Ideal Application

Snow Retention Top 3 Benefits

  1. Enhanced Safety and Risk Mitigation: By controlling snow release and preventing large sheets of snow or ice from sliding off the roof, snow retention systems help protect building occupants, adjacent property, and landscaping.

  2. Preservation of Finishes and Roof Integrity: The retention system we partner with is designed to mount without penetrating panel finishes and uses matched-material components that prevent finish mismatch or corrosion.

  3. Design and Retrofit Flexibility: Whether you’re building new or retrofitting, the snow retention systems offered through McElroy accommodate standing seam and exposed-fastened metal panels, offering compatibility and ease of specification.

S-5! ColorGard Snow Retention

The aftermarket powder-coated and air-dried paint finish on many snow retention systems fades faster than metal roof panels.  When this occurs, it can become an unsightly mismatch in just a few years. ColorGard’s finish match lasts the life of the roof--guaranteed because it is literally made from the same material as the roof!
 
ColorGard can be easily installed any time of the year and either retrofitted to an existing roof or incorporated into a new roof design. 
 

S-5! ColorGard Snow Retention systems are IAPMO Certified.

S-5! has developed an online calculator to help guide users with proper product selection. Or, to take advantage of McElroy's estimating service, email roof plans to estimates@McElroyMetal.com.

 

S-5! ColorGard Snow Retention

The aftermarket powder-coated and air-dried paint finish on many snow retention systems fades faster than metal roof panels.  When this occurs, it can become an unsightly mismatch in just a few years. ColorGard’s finish match lasts the life of the roof--guaranteed because it is literally made from the same material as the roof!
 
ColorGard can be easily installed any time of the year and either retrofitted to an existing roof or incorporated into a new roof design. 
 

S-5! ColorGard Snow Retention systems are IAPMO Certified.

S-5! has developed an online calculator to help guide users with proper product selection. Or, to take advantage of McElroy's estimating service, email roof plans to estimates@McElroyMetal.com.

 

S-5! ColorGard system for standing seam roofing is truly the industry's best snow retention solution. S-5! clamps attach directly to standing seam panel seams without penetrating the roof panels. 

Competing systems are much more invasive to the metal panels. Some physically penetrate the panel while others are attached to the panel surface with adhesive.  It's important to realize that the panel finish warranty is voided under any applied adhesives. 

View the ColorGard 2.0 Product Sheet.

View the ColorGard 2.0 Brochure.

S-5!'s line of versatile and affordable brackets can be utilized on all McElroy Metal exposed-fastened metal roof profiles.  CorruBracket™ is the perfect match for attaching ColorGard to corrugated roofs, while the VersaBracket™ 47 or 67 is the choice for all trapezoidal-shaped roofs. 

An S-5! clamp or bracket is needed to attached the SnowGard system to the roof. S-5! has developed specific clamps for all McElroy Metal Standing Seam profiles. For exposed fastened panels, various brackets can be used. S-5! has created an online tool that shows S-5! clamps and brackets that can be used with specific McElroy Metal panels.

A punched cross-member is used with standing seam applications. The member is slotted 4” (10.2 cm) on center to accommodate panel widths that are easily divisible by 4. 

The punched cross-member is not recommended with exposed-fastened profiles.

The punched cross-member installs in 8’ lengths.

The unpunched cross-member should be used when standing seam panel widths aren't easily divisible by the 4" on-center because it accommodates any seam spacing. Use with all snow-compatible clamps or brackets.

The unpunched cross member also installs in 8' lengths.

The splice component is designed to join adjacent ColorGard cross-members and maintain structural continuity. The splice also automatically provides for thermal linear expansion and contraction of the ColorGard assembly.

The splice component is included with the punched and unpunched crossmember.

(Purchased separately)

The VersaClip connects the cross-member to any S-5! standard clamps, Corrubracket, and VersaBrackets.  An M8 bolt and nut are required when using VersaBracket.

The SnoClip is designed to minimize the migration of snow and ice beneath cross-members. The SnoClip is optional with user discretion but recommended on seam heights of 2” and greater. The SnoClip is assembled to the cross-member during installation.

This component is available in two sizes to accommodate various seam height dimensions.

This strip of roof material is inserted into the cross-member to match the roof color. The 2” wide color strips are made from the same material and color as the roofing panels.

S-5! ColorGard system for standing seam roofing is truly the industry's best snow retention solution. S-5! clamps attach directly to standing seam panel seams without penetrating the roof panels. 

Competing systems are much more invasive to the metal panels. Some physically penetrate the panel while others are attached to the panel surface with adhesive.  It's important to realize that the panel finish warranty is voided under any applied adhesives. 

View the ColorGard 2.0 Product Sheet.

View the ColorGard 2.0 Brochure.

S-5!'s line of versatile and affordable brackets can be utilized on all McElroy Metal exposed-fastened metal roof profiles.  CorruBracket™ is the perfect match for attaching ColorGard to corrugated roofs, while the VersaBracket™ 47 or 67 is the choice for all trapezoidal-shaped roofs. 

An S-5! clamp or bracket is needed to attached the SnowGard system to the roof. S-5! has developed specific clamps for all McElroy Metal Standing Seam profiles. For exposed fastened panels, various brackets can be used. S-5! has created an online tool that shows S-5! clamps and brackets that can be used with specific McElroy Metal panels.

A punched cross-member is used with standing seam applications. The member is slotted 4” (10.2 cm) on center to accommodate panel widths that are easily divisible by 4. 

The punched cross-member is not recommended with exposed-fastened profiles.

The punched cross-member installs in 8’ lengths.

The unpunched cross-member should be used when standing seam panel widths aren't easily divisible by the 4" on-center because it accommodates any seam spacing. Use with all snow-compatible clamps or brackets.

The unpunched cross member also installs in 8' lengths.

The splice component is designed to join adjacent ColorGard cross-members and maintain structural continuity. The splice also automatically provides for thermal linear expansion and contraction of the ColorGard assembly.

The splice component is included with the punched and unpunched crossmember.

(Purchased separately)

The VersaClip connects the cross-member to any S-5! standard clamps, Corrubracket, and VersaBrackets.  An M8 bolt and nut are required when using VersaBracket.

The SnoClip is designed to minimize the migration of snow and ice beneath cross-members. The SnoClip is optional with user discretion but recommended on seam heights of 2” and greater. The SnoClip is assembled to the cross-member during installation.

This component is available in two sizes to accommodate various seam height dimensions.

This strip of roof material is inserted into the cross-member to match the roof color. The 2” wide color strips are made from the same material and color as the roofing panels.

Snow Retention Videos

McElroy Metal is a proud distributor of S-5! snow-retention solutions, offering a wide range of components engineered specifically for metal roofing. The ColorGard® rail system is manufactured from the same material and finish as the roof for long-term color and performance consistency, while clamp and bracket attachments for both standing seam and exposed-fastened panels provide secure, non-penetrating installation that helps protect panel warranties. S-5! also offers punched and unpunched cross-members to accommodate varying panel widths and expansion needs, along with accessories such as VersaClip, SnoClip, and color-strip inserts for added functionality and aesthetics. For estimating support, roof plans can be submitted to estimates@McElroyMetal.com.

Attach Virtually Anything to Your Metal Roof with S-5! Brackets & Clamps

S-5! metal roof brackets & clamps allow you to attach accessories while protecting the integrity of your metal roof.

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Find a Distributor/Contractor Near You

Whether you’re building a new home or planning renovations, a metal roof can deliver long-term cost savings and comfort. To explore your options and find the product that meets your aesthetic and budgetary needs, contact a McElroy Metal distributor or contractor in your area today. We can’t wait to help make your dream home a reality.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The questions below address common considerations and help guide product selection for your project.

Can snow retention rails be color-matched to the roof panels?
Yes. The ColorGard rails are made from the same material and finish as the roof to match for the life of the roof.
Can these systems be installed on both new and existing roofs?
Yes. The snow-retention systems are designed for new construction and retrofit applications.
Will adding retention rails void panel warranties?
When installed using the recommended clamps/brackets that do not penetrate the panel skin or compromise the finish, panel warranties remain intact.
Do all panels support the same retention system?
Compatibility depends on the panel type (standing seam vs. exposed fastener), the clamp/bracket used, and roof configuration. McElroy and S-5! offer tools and support for proper selection.
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Why Choose McElroy Metal

McElroy Metal is an employee-owned manufacturer with more than six decades of experience producing high-quality metal roofing, wall systems, and substructural components. Our nationwide manufacturing and service center network ensures consistent availability, responsive support, and dependable delivery. Built on a culture of craftsmanship and partnership, our products are engineered for long-term durability and trusted performance on projects of every size.