Estimate pounds per square foot of snow on a roof from the ground snow load, exposure and pitch.
This is a planning estimate. It leaves out drifts, sliding snow and rain-on-snow surcharges. Have an engineer size any structural member.
Checked against ASCE 7 2016, section 7.3 and 7.4. These rule values have not been reviewed by a licensed professional. Your local code and inspector decide, so verify with your building department.
Finished the roof snow load? Snap a before and after. The photo maker lines them up into one image you can post, and a free Blueprint account keeps the photos with your measurements and materials.
Pick one for a step-by-step plan with tools, materials and costs, or tell us in your own words.
Ground snow load is set by location. Ask your building department for the value that applies to your address.
| Ground load | 4:12 shingle | 12:12 metal |
|---|---|---|
| 20 psf | 14.0 psf | 5.4 psf |
| 30 psf | 21.0 psf | 8.1 psf |
| 40 psf | 28.0 psf | 10.8 psf |
| 50 psf | 35.0 psf | 13.5 psf |
| 70 psf | 49.0 psf | 18.8 psf |
Heated building on a typical suburban site. Beam and joist choices belong with the span tools and a licensed engineer.
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