Snow Drifting

Snow Load & Snow Drifting Assessments

Ensuring safe, reliable, and code-compliant performance in winter conditions.

At Gnobi Consulting Inc., we evaluate how snow accumulates, drifts, and redistributes around buildings so your roofs and outdoor spaces remain safe and functional. Our assessments help architects, structural engineers, and developers understand winter loading conditions and ensure compliance with NBCC, ASCE-7, and local municipal requirements.

What We Assess

✓ Ground & Roof Snow Loads (NBCC, ASCE-7)

We calculate snow loads based on governing codes to ensure the structural design reflects realistic, location-specific winter conditions.
This includes:

• Flat roof snow loads

• Sloped roof snow loads

✓ Snow Drifting Around Roof Elements

We analyze drifting patterns around:

• Parapets

• Step roofs

• Penthouses

• Mechanical enclosures

• Adjacent buildings

• Terraces and amenity roofs

Our simulations help identify high-risk accumulation zones and the implications for structural loading.

✓ Snow Accumulation on Podiums, Terraces & Canopies

Podium and terrace roofs often experience complex drifting due to surrounding towers or wind exposure.
We assess:

• Snow build-up against tall building façades

• Redistribution from roof edges

✓ Coordination With Structural Engineers

We work directly with your structural team to ensure:

• Proper load paths

• Efficient, safe, and code-compliant design

• Clear, submission-ready reporting

Where required, we also provide design recommendations to reduce snow-related risks through architectural or structural refinements.

Where Snow Drifting Analysis Is Most Critical

• Tall buildings with podiums

• Step roofs or multiple roof levels

• Sites exposed to prevailing winds

• Buildings located near taller adjacent structures

• Terraces, green roofs, and outdoor amenity areas

Related Services

Explore complementary microclimate and wind analysis services:

• Pedestrian Wind Studies

• Wind Engineering

• Cladding & Structural Wind Loading

Ready to Assess Snow Loads for Your Project?

We support architects, engineers, planners, and developers across Ontario and North America.

📞 (519) 400-4996
📧 contact@gnobiconsulting.com

➡️ Contact Us to begin.