Unbalanced Snow Load for Mono Slope

[Gaurah]

Dear all,
I have been working on design for mono slope steel frame canopy for a solar project.
Was wondering if unbalanced snow load is applicable for mono slopes as found it only in cases of gable roofs so far. If it is not applicable, is there a specific reasoning.
Further, same question on sliding and drifting snow load.

Thank You

 

[KootK]

I believe that sliding and drifting apply but unbalanced does not. My understanding is that it's about aerodynamic effects. With dual slopes and a defined ridge, there's a definite windward side for pickup and a leeward side for drop off. Not so on a mono slope.

Sliding is about tilt and slipperiness. Still applies to mono slope.

Drift is about vertical projections. Again, still applies if your mono slope has parapets, rtu's, adjacent structures etc.

The greatest trick that bond stress ever pulled was convincing the world it didn't exist.

 

[Gaurah]

Thank You.

 

[TehMightyEngineer]

I'll second KootK with the caveat that it's conservative to assume unbalanced snow loads. Plus, future adjacent structures may cause unbalanced snow loads to occur.

O'Rourks' Guide to the Snow Loads of ASCE 7-10 is a great book to pick up regarding snow loads. I would highly recommend it.

Maine EIT, Civil/Structural.