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TOPIC: Standing Seam roof

Snow Load Concern

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We are planning new residential construction in Eastern PA. We want very much to incorporate standing seam panel metal roofs at a low pitch (4:12). Everyone I explain the design to says the same thing... "Are you crazy? You're gonna get a ton of snow up there!" Is this still a major issue - with today's structural advancements and reinforcement options? An architect told me that I could have a flat roof if I wanted to (he was just making a point)... yet the old concern still lives on.
Guest User

6/3/2004
Standing seam roof installations on 4:12 pitch in snow country are not uncommon. For added assurance that this is appropriate for your home, I would still suggest choosing manufacturer(s) of product(s) you like and letting them review drawings of the new home to make sure that they do not see any potential problems. In some cases, roof geometry could make things a little more difficult. Of course, in any event, good insulation over the ceilings as well as a well vented attic can help avoid ice damming. Metal roofing is rapidly growing in use in snow areas because of its ability to shed ice and snow. Todd Miller
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.

6/4/2004
Thanks Todd. I will indeed get the drawings ready for review. I appreciate your feedback.
Guest User

6/5/2004
this house of my friends that im fixing for him to sell (he's in africa saving the world) has a peak and valley----at the end of the valley (bottom) is where the front/ main entrance is as well - so on both sides of the valley there are metal barriers perpindiculare to the roof sticking out 3 inches to stop the snow buildup from sliding on anyone walking in or out of this entrance... problem is that an ice dam formed this last winter because the snow was piling up on these barriers and then leaks started to happen for obvious reasons (the ice dam and its by-product) -- anyway--- should i take these bariers out all together and allow gravity to take the snow down even though it may land at the entrance---- (i have photos if anyones interested) or re-aim the barriers so that they use gravity (right now the are parralel to the eaves) ...thi is in cowboy country in canada--- so its long winters.... the roof itself is blue dark blue, and so it seems a bit warm in there--- there is no tarpaper, no poly, just insulation raftersand the metal roof. any ideas to help me --- i am taking a week off work to help him out and get this done .... any advice would be appreciated.
Guest User

6/19/2004