A sagging roof can be daunting. It can fall and hurt anyone inside a building. Snow load on the roof can cause this problem. Not only this one, but many others as well. If you are not aware of these issues, your building may struggle during the winter months. However, winter-ready structures like metal buildings can withstand snow, ice, storms, and other types of weather.
If you live in a region where snow is the biggest problem, explore below how a well-designed steel structure can easily help you overcome the winter months. Thoughtful roof design, robust walls, insulation, and many other features of a steel structure make the winter months less stressful.
How? Scroll down quickly to grasp all the details. Let's begin with why winter is harsh.
Why Winter Can Be Tough on Buildings?
Snow, ice, cold winds, and storms can be tough on buildings in various ways. Knowing what problems they can cause will help you better understand which type of structure is best suited for your needs.
- Heavy snow can build up on roofs and cause them to bend.
- Ice can block gutters and damage walls or roofing.
- Strong winds can shake weak structures and rip off roof parts.
- Freezing temperatures can cause materials like wood or concrete to crack.
- Moisture from melted snow can leak inside and damage the building.
Long story short, winter weather can weaken, damage, or destroy buildings that are not made to handle it. This is why metal buildings work the best for regions with heavy snowfall and cold weather.
What Makes Metal Buildings Winter-ready?
Metal buildings are renowned for their strength and durability, but they also offer built-in advantages that help them withstand harsh winters. With the right design, proper insulation, and smart construction choices, metal buildings don't just survive winter; they perform well in it.
We have curated the key reasons why:
1. Strong Frame and Roof Design
Strong frames can carry heavy snow loads. They bear the weight to stop sagging and dents, which not only affect the structural integrity of the building but also its curb appeal. Many factors affect the amount your building can withstand, but most roofs can carry a snow load of up to 20 pounds per square foot. Frames created with thick steel have more potential to withstand heavy snow.
Moreover, roof design also affects how much weight a roof can carry. So, it needs to be well-designed by a renowned metal building dealer. A structure with this type of roof and frame doesn't allow sag or crack, even when snow piles up.
2. Sloped Roofs for Snow Shedding
Many metal buildings come with sloped or pitched roofs. This helps snow slide off naturally, instead of sitting on top and adding weight. Choose roof style based on the level of snowfall in your area.
Types of Roofs:
- Regular Roof Style: It features horizontal roof panels that curve at the ends when they meet the sides of the walls. However, snow easily accumulates on horizontal surfaces and builds up over time.
- Boxed Eave Style: Also known as an A-frame horizontal roof. It has an enclosed or boxed appearance. Trims and panels cover the underside of the overhang. It also provides basic protection against snow if the roof panels are horizontal.
- Vertical Roof Style: This type of roof offers more protection from snow than the two discussed above. Because it features a vertical panel that allows snow to slide off quickly. As a result, you will not encounter snow accumulation problems with your metal structure.
Therefore, vertical roof panels will be the best option because they are pitched or steeply sloped, allowing snow to slide off the top. Snow will slide down as it falls on the roof.
3. Insulation Options for Better Protection
Metal structures are insulated with foam panels, fiberglass, or reflective barriers, woven R-17, and many other types of insulation. Proper insulation keeps the inside warm, dry, and energy-efficient, even in freezing temperatures. Whether you have housed animals, crops, goods, vehicles, or tools, they will stay protected through all the winter months.
An insulated metal building also prevents condensation, which can lead to the growth of mold and rust. It can damage your valuables, spoil food items, and develop corrosion in tools and vehicles. Example: A metal office with proper insulation stays cozy in -10°C weather.
4. Weather-Resistant Material
Steel is naturally resistant to water, snow, ice, and pests. Unlike wood, it doesn't rot, crack, or warp in the cold. All over the world, you will find many examples of steel structures that have stood the test of time, no matter how cold is weather. They have faced speedy cold winds, heavy snowfall, and long, cold weeks. Your steel structures, such as garages, sheds, and barns, can remain strong throughout the entire snowy season. For example, wooden sheds may swell or split in winter, but metal structures stay solid.
5. Tight Seals and Strong Doors
Metal buildings use high-quality doors, windows, and weather seals. This keeps out cold drafts, moisture, and ice. Since these structures are flexible, installing tight seals and strong doors becomes a cakewalk. If you find any issues with the locks and seals, changing them later is also easy because steel allows quick extension. Moreover, a properly sealed metal barn and garage keep livestock warm and protected during snowstorms.
6. Requires Little Attention
How does it feel to go out in winter and take care of a building? Not a good idea because it can be dangerous. Steel buildings typically require less frequent visits from the owner for maintenance. Many times, after a snowstorm, a quick snow sweep is enough. They remain in better condition for a long time because they are resistant to pests, termites, mold, and rot. This is why you don't have to spend time and money on frequent repairs and replacements of the structure. Once they are installed, they serve you for 40-50 years.
Points to Check for Strong Steel Building Installation
If you have not installed a steel building yet, check out these points. They will help you install a strong structure in the region prone to heavy snowfall, ice, and cold winds. Prefabricated structures are winter-ready solutions, but planning their design and installation makes them more suitable for areas with frequent or long winters.
- Not all steel buildings are built the same. In cold areas, you need a certified structure rated for the local snow load. If your area receives 60 pounds per square foot of snow, your building must be engineered to hold that much weight.
- Choose vertical roof panels as they have ridges that run from the peak to the eaves, making it easier for snow and ice to fall off naturally.
- Ensure your steel structure is rated for the wind speeds common in your area. For example, in areas with winds up to 120 mph, a wind-certified steel building can prevent damage easily.
- Always go for heavier gauge steel because it is thicker. 12-gauge steel is stronger than 14-gauge steel. It costs more upfront, but it helps your structure better survive extreme weather.
- Ensure proper insulation and sealing to prevent condensation. It will keep your internal temperature stable throughout the winter months.
Snow, Ice, and Storms- Bring Them On
Your steel building will remain resilient, regardless of heavy snow or fast, cold winds. Its robust frames and well-engineered roof and entire structure will keep everything inside safe for the entire year. You will not have to come out of your cozy place in winter to maintain the steel building. Your structure can shrug off harsh weather conditions and offer you peace of mind. With proper planning before installing a steel building, you can enhance the building's quality and make it more resilient to harsh weather conditions.
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