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Roof design in cold regions

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Abstract
In this paper, presented at CRRELs First International Conference on Snow Engineering, the author explains how roofs continue to be a problem in cold regions even though many excellent membrane and water-shedding systems are available. Dead flat roofs of any type are a design mistake. In cold regions, membrane roofs should have a slope of 1/4 in/ft and should drain internally. It is usually best to slope roofs by inclining the frame rather than using tapered insulation. Most water-shedding roofs drain to cold eaves and are tush subject to ice dam problems. Such problems can be minimized by designing a "cold" ventilated roof, by insulating it well, by minimizing the overhand at the eaves, by increasing the roof slope and by providing an unobstructed slippery surface form which snow will slide. However, when using slippery-surfaced systems, it is essential to provide a place for the snow to slide where it will not endanger people or damage property.
Date
7/1988
Author(s)
Wayne Tobiasson
Page(s)
462-472
Keyword(s)
roof design; cold region; icing; sliding snow; snow load


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