Winter can be a challenging time for pole barn owners, especially in regions prone to heavy snowfall. One critical feature that can protect your pole barn during the snowy season is snow cleats. These small, often overlooked components play a significant role in safeguarding your structure. Here’s what can happen if you don’t have snow cleats for your pole barn.
1. Uncontrolled Snow Slides
Snow cleats, also known as snow guards, are designed to hold snow on the roof and allow it to melt gradually. Without them, snow can slide off suddenly in large sheets. This can be dangerous for anyone near the building and can cause significant damage to property and vehicles parked close to the barn. Sudden snow slides can also lead to injuries for people or animals in the vicinity.
2. Roof Damage
The weight of accumulated snow can be substantial, especially after multiple snowfalls. Without snow cleats, snow can slide off unevenly, causing an unbalanced load on the roof. This can lead to structural damage over time, such as bent or broken trusses and compromised roofing materials. The cost of repairing this damage can be substantial and can be avoided with the simple installation of snow cleats.
3. Gutter and Foundation Issues
When snow falls off the roof in large chunks, it often lands near the foundation and gutters. The impact can damage gutters, leading to water drainage issues when the snow melts. Additionally, large amounts of snow accumulating near the foundation can cause water seepage into the building once it melts, potentially leading to water damage and foundation issues.
4. Safety Hazards
The sudden release of snow from the roof can create hazardous conditions. Paths and driveways around your pole barn can become treacherous, increasing the risk of slips and falls. For agricultural or commercial pole barns, this can pose a significant risk to both humans and animals, as well as disrupt daily operations.
Installing snow cleats on your pole barn is a small investment that can prevent numerous problems associated with heavy snowfall. They ensure the safety of people, animals, and property around your barn and help maintain the structural integrity of the building. Don’t wait for winter troubles to arise—equip your pole barn with snow cleats and enjoy peace of mind all season long.