Heavy Snow Accumulation Causes Roof Collapse

Facility Manager Cost Saving/Best Practice Quick Reads
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Ryan Berlin January 4, 2018 – Roofing

Throughout the winter as snow begins to accumulate, it’s important for maintenance and engineering managers to remember to clear that snow whenever they get the chance, especially when it comes to the roof.

The Billings Food Bank’s distribution center suffered a partial roof collapse after nearly a foot and a half of snow fell in Billings over several days, according to an article in the Billings Gazette.

The Billings Fire Department responded after a neighbor reported seeing debris falling into the alley next to the food bank. No one was inside the building at the time of the partial roof collapse, Billings Fire Batalion Chief Kevin Johnson said.

Johnson says he couldn’t be certain that the load of snow atop the roof was the cause of the collapse, noting that the subzero temperatures may have also played a role.

Damage to at least on of the building’s walls was extensive, he added, land will likely require that part of the storage building to be condemned and demolished before the alley can be safely reopened.

This Quick Read was submitted by Ryan Berlin, managing editor of Facility Maintenance Decisions.