Can a Bunkie Handle Heavy Snow?
Understanding Snow Load Ratings
If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, one of the most important questions to ask before getting a Bunkie is:
“Can it handle my local snow load?”
The answer depends on multiple factors, including your location, roof pitch, material type, and wind exposure. Snow load ratings aren’t a one-size-fits-all number—they vary across regions and are influenced by National and Local Building Codes.
Let’s break it down so you can understand how snow load works and whether a Bunkie is suitable for your area.
What is Snow Load? Ground Load vs. Roof Load
Snow load is the weight of accumulated snow on a surface. However, there are two different types of snow load:
1. Ground Snow Load (What You See on the Ground)
✅ This is the default number you’ll find when searching online or asking your municipality.
✅ It represents the weight of snow evenly distributed on the ground.
✅ Different regions have drastically different values—for example:
- Whistler, BC has snow loads 9x higher than areas like Kitchener, ON.
- Northern Ontario and Alberta require much higher ratings than areas further south.
2. Roof Snow Load (What Your Bunkie Needs to Handle)
✅ This is different from ground snow load and is always a percentage of the ground load.
✅ Factors affecting roof snow load:
- Roof Pitch: Steeper roofs shed snow more easily, reducing the load.
- Roof Material: Metal roofs allow snow to slide off, while shingles hold more snow.
- Wind Exposure: Open areas may experience natural snow removal, while forests allow snow to accumulate freely.
Why You Can’t Just Google a Single Snow Load Number
A common mistake people make is assuming the number they find online is their roof snow load. In reality, most municipalities only provide ground snow load values.
Your actual roof snow load must be calculated based on multiple factors, which is why we ask for your specific address when determining if a Bunkie is suitable for your area.
How is a Bunkie’s Snow Load Rating Determined?
Bunkie snow loads are calculated using data from:
✔ National & Local Building Codes – Standardized snow load charts.
✔ Your Region’s Ground Snow Load – The base number for calculation.
✔ Engineering Adjustments – Factoring in roof pitch, material, and exposure.
Common Snow Load Ratings for Bunkies
While each Bunkie model is different, typical roof snow load capacities range from 40 to 60 pounds per square foot (PSF). However, this can vary depending on your specific location.
How Do You Find Your Area’s Snow Load?
If you’re unsure about the snow load in your area, here’s what you can do:
✅ Check with Your Municipality – They can provide a ground snow load value.
✅ Consult an Engineer – They can help convert it into a roof snow load for your structure.
✅ Ask Us! – We can help you determine whether a Bunkie will work for your specific location.
Final Thoughts: Can a Bunkie Handle Your Snow Load?
Yes, as long as it’s designed for your area’s specific conditions! Snow load ratings are more than just a single number—you need to consider:
❌ DON’T
- Assume the first number you find online is correct.
- Ignore factors like roof pitch, wind exposure, and material type.
- Skip checking your local building codes.
✅ DO
- Find out your ground snow load from your municipality.
- Ensure your roof snow load is properly calculated based on your region.
- Contact us to discuss your Bunkie model’s rating!
Still Have Questions? We’re Here to Help!
If you’re in a heavy snow area and want to make sure a Bunkie is the right choice, reach out to us today! We’ll help you determine the best option for your needs.
Are you thinking about building extra space on your cottage or home property?
We’re famous for our small cabins called bunkies that can be easily built in a weekend for extra space without needing a second mortgage.
We help families create extra space for more meaningful connections and proudly deliver across Canada and USA.
Call us at 1-888-914-9298 or fill out this quick form. We will get back to you soon.
Let's Connect
Are you thinking about building extra space on your cottage or home property?
We’re famous for our small cabins called bunkies that can be easily built in a weekend for extra space without needing a second mortgage.
We help families create extra space for more meaningful connections and proudly deliver across Canada and USA.
Call us at 1-888-914-9298 or fill out this quick form. We will get back to you soon.