Clear answer
Clear answer, explained.
While they avoid roof penetrations, their higher dead load can be a limitation on some structures. Mechanically attached systems are sometimes preferred in heavy snow regions to reduce roof loading and improve snow shedding.
Key points
What this means in practice.
- Ballasted systems add significant permanent roof load
- Snow load is combined with ballast weight in structural design
- Sliding snow and drift patterns must be considered
- Wind uplift resistance must meet code requirements
- Some roofs are better suited to mechanically attached systems
- Structural engineer verification is required in all cases
When this applies
Best-fit environments.
- Industrial flat roofs in cold or high-snowfall regions
- Warehouses and distribution centres using non-penetrating racking
- Buildings with limited allowable roof loading
- Projects subject to snow load and wind design codes
Q·01
