Roof snow load case studies gathered throughout the United States over a three-year period are analyzed. The objective of the analysis is to determine a relationship between the snow load on the ground and the corresponding uniform snow load on flat and sloped roofs. The main parameters considered are the thermal characteristics of the roof, the roof slope and the exposure of the structure. Exposure has the strongest effect on the ratio of ground to roof snow loads. Comparisons are made with existing and proposed building codes and standards. (Author).

Roof snow load case studies gathered throughout the United States over a three-year period are analyzed. The objective of the analysis is to determine a relationship between the snow load on the ground and the corresponding uniform snow load on flat and sloped roofs. The main parameters considered are the thermal characteristics of the roof, the roof slope and the exposure of the structure. Exposure has the strongest effect on the ratio of ground to roof snow loads. Comparisons are made with existing and proposed building codes and standards. (Author).

Snow loads on roofs vary widely according to geographical location (climate), site exposure, and shape of the roof. In considering snow loads on roofs, Canada can be divided into four major regions. Structural designers are well aware of the influence of snow loads on the design of buildings as in many cases they constitute the largest design load for the roof system. A careful assessment of the snow load is required, therefore, to avoid both unnecessary construction costs and undue risk of failure. (Author).