When you hear the word, "snowbird", do you immediately think of retirees heading south for the winter, just like migrating birds?  In the building material world, a "snow bird" is also the name of what we know in modern time as snow guards.  They received their name from the antique design of eagles cast in brass and built to attach to a roof to retain snow.

Different styles of snow birds were designed, not necessarily as a replica of a bird, but designed for function and beauty.  Metals used included cast iron as seen below and historically would have been used on slate or tile roofs.

Today there are styles for every roof material and made from various materials.  But first a little background on snow birds and where it all started.  A variety of snow birds are documented as having been used for a few hundred years in areas of the world where plenty of snow is commonplace.  Long ago in the Nordic regions of the Alps, heavy stones and logs were placed on top of roofs to retain snow as the people took advantage of their climate and considered it increased insulation. Of course in these areas heavy snow fall can cause avalanches, and avalanching snow from a roof top could be extremely damaging or deadly.  The stones and logs greatly reduced that possibility.

Fast forward to modern times. In the mid-seventies, the first clear, polycarbonate "snow guard" was invented.  Today's snow guards are still made of polycarbonate or metals and you can find snow guards in virtually any color as the metals can be powder-coated to match your roof.  

The color coating is an aesthetic plus as they can match or coordinate with your roof or bring historical appeal to your home, but what is most important is their function.  Snow guards allow snow to fall from your roof in smaller amounts at a time or even retain the snow long enough that it will melt away instead of falling, as well as help prevent ice dams.  Also, as mentioned above, snow guards help prevent the rooftop avalanche of snow that can injure people, animals, personal property around your home, or your home itself.  

With the growing popularity of metal roofing systems, many home builders, architectural designers, and home and business owners are using snow guards more often as metal roofing can be a prime candidate for sliding snow problems.  Another option you may notice are snow guard rail systems on metal roofs, which cover a larger section than snow guards.

Different styles for flat metal, corrugated metal, standing seam metal, shingle, tile and slate roofing are available.  Reach out to a supplier to gain more information on styles and materials, as well as look at samples, to make an informed decision before choosing the best option for your roof.