Excessive Snow Could Damage Roofs

Due to citizen safety concerns, the city of Grand Island Building Services Division would like to make the public aware of the potential hazard of excessive snow accumulation on roofs. With recent severe winter weather events there has been an increased concern of snow accumulation on roof with the potential of structural failures. We have experienced several substantial snow events with temperatures not rising to allow significant snow melt. This has caused more than usual snow accumulation on roof also compounded by high winds causing additional drifting. Property owners are encouraged to inspect their roof for excessive accumulation of snow and have it remove to prevent damage to the building. 

Given the hazardous nature of working in high places, we recommend that professionals such as licensed/bonded contracting companies be consulted for snow and ice removal. Overstressed roof deck or framing typically displays some warning signs. Wood and steel structures may show noticeable signs of excessive deflection before failure. The following warning signs are common in wood, metal, and steel constructed buildings:
1. Sagging ceiling tiles or boards, ceiling boards falling out of the ceiling grid, and/or
sagging sprinkler lines and sprinkler heads.
2. Sprinkler heads deflecting below suspended ceilings.
3. Popping, cracking, and creaking noises.
4. Sagging roof members, including metal decking or plywood sheathing.
5. Bowing truss bottom chords or web members.
6. Doors and/or windows that can no longer be opened or closed.
7. Cracked or split wood members.
8. Cracks in walls or masonry.
9. Severe roof leaks.
10. Excessive accumulation of water at non-drainage locations on low slope roofs.

If any of the warning signs identified are observed, it’s recommended to immediately reach out to a building contractor, structural engineer or the Grand Island Building Service Division to have the building evaluated for structural integrity. For further information or questions please call the Building Services Division at 308-385-5325.