Roof Snow Load Calculator

in
in
in
ft
ft
lb/sq ft

IBHS estimates about 20 lb/sq ft for a typical roof. Your local building department has the design load.

Snow load

12.5 lb/sq ft

Share of roof capacity
63%
Total weight on roof
15,000 lb
In tons
7.5 tons
Fresh snow weight
5 lb/sq ft
Packed snow weight
7.5 lb/sq ft
Ice weight
0 lb/sq ft
More fresh snow before reaching capacity
18 in
Fresh snow: 40.0%Packed snow: 60.0%
  • Fresh snow540.0%
  • Packed snow7.560.0%

An estimate from typical snow densities, not a structural assessment. Wet snow and drifts can weigh much more.

Open the full roof snow load calculator with the formula and FAQs at Calcs for Life