Michael O'Rourke

Probabilistic models of snow loads on structures

Abstract Snow loads provide the governing load requirements for the structural design of roofs in many northern climates or mountainous regions. Current design practice in North America and Europe is to calculate the roof snow load as the product of a ground load and a dimensionless ground-to-roof conversion factor. Both parameters are random variables, and appropriate fractiles of their distributions must be determined for use in design codes. Statistical data are presented on the ground snow obtained from analysis of climatological data, and on ground-to-roof conversion factors measured by surveys of snow accumulation on roofs.

Snow Loads: A Guide to the Use and Understanding of the Snow Load Provisions of ASCE 7-02

\ISnow Loads: A Guide to the Use and Understanding of the Snow Load provisions of ASCE 7-02\N is the only book that provides a detailed, authoritative interpretation of the snow load provisions of \IMinimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures,\N Standard ASCE 7-02. This guide includes examples of flat roof loads, sloped roof loads, and partial loads, as well as all types of conventional drift loading. More than 70 figures and tables clearly illustrate snow load scenarios, and each chapter contains worked examples that help engineers apply difficult snow load concepts. A section of frequently asked questions addresses the correct implementation of the provisions of ASCE 7-02, such as unique snow loading cases and ways to mitigate drift loads on existing roofs as a result of new additions.