1. What is Snow Load?

Snow load is the downward force on a structure caused by the weight of accumulated snow. It's a critical factor in structural design, especially in regions with heavy snowfall.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the basic snow load equation:

Where:

• \( snow\_depth \) — Depth of snow in inches
• \( density \) — Density of snow in lb/ft³

Explanation: The equation converts snow depth to feet (dividing by 12) before multiplying by density to get load in pounds per square foot (psf).

3. Importance of Snow Load Calculation

Details: Accurate snow load calculation is essential for building design, roof safety assessments, and compliance with local building codes in snowy regions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter snow depth in inches and snow density in lb/ft³. Typical fresh snow density is about 5-12 lb/ft³, while packed snow can be 15-30 lb/ft³.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical snow density value?
A: Fresh snow is typically 5-12 lb/ft³, settled snow 12-18 lb/ft³, and packed snow or ice 18-30 lb/ft³.

Q2: How does snow load affect roof design?
A: Roofs must be designed to withstand expected snow loads to prevent collapse. Building codes specify minimum requirements based on location.

Q3: When should I be concerned about snow load?
A: When accumulated snow exceeds 20-25 psf for most residential roofs, or when you notice visible sagging of roof members.

Q4: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: This is a basic calculation. Actual roof loads may vary due to drifting, roof slope, melting/refreezing, and other factors.

Q5: How often should snow load be assessed?
A: During periods of heavy snowfall, assess snow load every 12-24 hours, especially if temperatures fluctuate around freezing.