Winter Snow Loads: 4 Best Ways Steel Buildings Endure

Engineered for Snow Loads

Snow accumulation can add significant weight to a building’s roof, making snow load an essential consideration in wintery regions. Steel buildings are engineered to meet local requirements for snow loads, ensuring they can bear the weight of heavy snowfall. These requirements can vary greatly with changes in elevation, surrounding terrain features and geographic location. Local requirements also get updated over time.

Thanks to steel’s superior strength, these structures offer better protection against snow-induced damage compared to traditional wood-framed buildings, which can struggle under pressure.

By complying with current and specific local codes for snow loads, steel buildings are tailored to withstand the heaviest snowfalls in your area. This customization ensures property owners can confidently rely on their steel structure, even during severe snowstorms.

Sloped Roofs and Snow Shedding

Steel buildings are often designed with sloped roofs to naturally shed snow, preventing excessive accumulation. The smooth surface of steel makes it easier for snow to slide off compared to other roofing materials. This feature helps reduce the risk of roof collapse and lowers the strain on the structure.

However, despite this advantage, snow removal remains a critical maintenance task. Even buildings with sloped roofs can experience snow buildup during prolonged or intense storms. Regular removal of accumulated snow helps prevent excess weight from damaging the structure and extends the lifespan of the roof.

Corrosion and Moisture Resistance

Snow and ice bring not only weight from snow loads but also moisture, which can weaken traditional building materials over time. Steel, however, is highly resistant to moisture damage. Unlike wood, which can rot or warp when exposed to water, steel retains its integrity even during the freeze-thaw cycles of winter.

Many steel buildings are treated with protective coatings to resist corrosion, further enhancing their durability in wet conditions. This resistance to both moisture and corrosion significantly reduces the risk of long-term damage and minimizes maintenance efforts.

Low Maintenance and Long-Lasting

Steel buildings require much less maintenance than conventional structures, making them especially suited for snow-prone regions. The inherent strength of steel allows these buildings to withstand seasons with heavy snow loads without frequent repairs. While regular snow removal is essential, the overall upkeep is minimal compared to other materials that may need reinforcement during and/or after each winter storm.

Moreover, steel’s durability ensures a longer lifespan, offering greater value over time. For property owners in regions that experience harsh winters, investing in a steel building means fewer repairs, less downtime, and longer-lasting protection.