The Roof Truss Snow Load Calculator is an innovative tool designed to estimate the weight of snow that a roof can safely support. By considering the snow’s thickness, density, and the roof’s dimensions and pitch, it calculates the snow load in either kN/m² or lbs/ft². This calculator plays a pivotal role in preventing roof collapse by providing precise snow load values, thereby ensuring the safety and durability of structures under the weight of snow.
Formula of Roof Truss Snow Load Calculator
The calculation of snow load involves two primary formulas:
- Snow Load Calculation:plaintext
snow load = thickness × density
- snow load represents the pressure exerted by the snow, measured in kN/m² or lbs/ft².
- thickness is the depth of the snow cover in meters or feet.
- density refers to the snow’s density, which varies depending on its type, measured in kg/m³ or lbs/ft³.
Total Snow Weight Calculation:
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snow weight = length × width / cos(pitch(°)) × snow load- snow weight is the total weight of snow on the roof, measured in kg or lbs.
- length and width are the dimensions of the roof in meters or feet.
- pitch(°) is the angle of the roof pitch in degrees.
Snow Density Table
The density of snow varies by type:
| Snow Type | Density (kg/m³) | Density (lbs/ft³) |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh snow | 60 | 3.74 |
| Damp fresh snow | 110 | 6.86 |
| Settled snow | 250 | 15.6 |
| Wind-packed snow | 375 | 23.4 |
| Very wet snow | 750 | 46.8 |
| Ice | 917 | 57.22 |
General Terms and Conversion Table
| erm | Description | Example Value |
|---|---|---|
| Snow Load (kN/m², lbs/ft²) | Pressure exerted by the snow on the roof surface | 1.5 kN/m² = 31.4 lbs/ft² |
| Snow Weight (kg, lbs) | Total weight of snow on the roof | 600 kg = 1322.8 lbs |
| Roof Length (m, ft) | Horizontal distance from edge to edge of the roof | 10 m = 32.8 ft |
| Roof Width (m, ft) | Horizontal distance between the front and back of the roof | 5 m = 16.4 ft |
| Pitch (°) | Angle of inclination of the roof | 30° |
| Snow Thickness (cm, in) | Depth of the snow layer on the roof | 20 cm = 7.9 in |
| Density (kg/m³, lbs/ft³) | Mass per unit volume of the snow | Settled snow: 250 kg/m³ = 15.6 lbs/ft³ |
Example of Roof Truss Snow Load Calculator
To illustrate how the Roof Truss Snow Load Calculator works, consider a roof with dimensions of 10m in length and 5m in width, with a pitch of 30°, covered with settled snow of 20cm thickness. Using the provided formulas and the density of settled snow (250 kg/m³), the calculator can determine the snow load and the total weight of snow the roof can support.
Most Common FAQs
Calculating snow load is crucial to ensure that roofs can withstand the weight of accumulated snow, preventing potential collapse and ensuring the safety of inhabitants and property.
The density of snow varies with its condition, ranging from fresh snow to ice. Refer to the snow density table provided in this guide for commonly accepted values.
Yes, the calculator is designed to be versatile and can be used for various roof types and pitches by inputting the appropriate dimensions and snow conditions.
