Finite Area Element Snow Loading Simulation

Our proprietary Finite Area Element Snow Loading Simulation (FAE) combines the results of a wind tunnel study with a computer model and up to 50 years of meteorological data to simulate snow fall, drifting, and melting on existing or proposed buildings. In effect, we can observe how snow would have accumulated on the building, and the resulting snow loads, had it been place for the past 50 years. This allows structural engineers to optimize their design to support snow loads. This simulation is the only method available whereby lower-than-code snow loads can be recommended for structural design, and has been used to revise the recommended snow load requirements in the National Building Code of Canada (1995 and 2005 editions).