How to Figure the Weight of Snow on a Roof

In December 2010, the Metrodome in Minneapolis collapsed under the weight of almost two feet of snow. Snow weight remains a major concern in many areas. In fact, building codes in some areas require a minimum snow load capacity. While most people don't deal with such extreme snow falls, knowing how much weight rests overhead can be intriguing. Using basic geometry, you can calculate the weight of snow on the roof, whether it's a light dusting or a stadium-collapsing blizzard.

Measuring tape
Ladder
Scale
Container

Instructions

Calculate Snow Volume
- 1
  Measure the length of the roof with the measuring tape. Use the ladder to reach the roof if needed.
- 2
  Measure the width of the roof.
- 3
  Measure the depth of the snow on the roof in inches.
- 4
  Divide the inches by 12 to convert the depth measurement to feet. For example, 6 inches equals 0.5 feet. Round the result if needed.
- 5
  Multiply the length of the roof by the width of the roof, then multiply this result by the snow depth to calculate the volume of the snow.
Calculate Snow Weight
- 6
  Weigh an empty cubical container that has a volume of one cubic foot.
- 7
  Fill the container completely with snow from the ground. Do not compress the snow when filling the container.
- 8
  Weigh the snow-filled container.
- 9
  Subtract the weight of the empty container from the weight of the snow-filled container. This yields the weight of one cubic foot of snow in ounces.
- 10
  Divide the snow weight by 16 to convert the ounces to pounds. For example, 8 ounces equals 0.5 pounds. Round the result if needed.
- 11
  Multiply the weight of one cubic foot of snow by the volume of the roof snow. This yields the total weight of snow on the roof.

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