Wind and Snow Load Ratings for Metal Buildings: What to Know and Ask Before You Buy

Metal Buildings and Your Weather

Metal buildings are strong. Really strong. That’s why people use them for carports, garages, and workshops. But even steel has its limits. Wind and snow can push it past them if you’re not careful. And those same forces can level one that’s not built to the right standards.

Knowing the numbers before you buy is an essential part of buying the right metal building. It can save you headaches, money, and maybe even damage when the wind and snow blows.

Wind Loads and Snow Loads

Wind and snow loads tell you how much your building can handle before taking damage.

• Wind Load

Wind load measures how much pressure wind can apply to a structure without causing damage. Engineers use ASCE 7 to calculate this, factoring in wind speed maps, exposure category, building height, and how enclosed the structure is.

• Snow Load

Snow load looks at how much weight from snow buildup a roof can support. ASCE 7 again provides the formulas, using local ground snow load data and converting it into safe roof load limits.

• IBC (International Building Code)

The IBC (International Building Code) is what most building departments enforce. It doesn’t replace ASCE 7, but it does tell inspectors which ASCE 7 rules must be followed for wind and snow load design.

Without the right load ratings, your building can bend, twist, or collapse. Permits may also get denied, and insurance coverage may be hard to find.

Certified Vs. Non-Certified Metal Buildings

What is the difference between a certified metal building and a non-certified structure?

Certified buildings

Certified metal buildings are engineered to meet or exceed your county’s wind load requirements and local codes. They come with stamped drawings, wind and snow calculations, and proper documentation.

Non-certified buildings

These structures are generic. They work in low-risk areas but usually can’t be permitted for residential or commercial use.

Comparing the two:

	Certified	Non-Certified
Engineering	Site-specific	Generic
Permitting	Built to permit specs	Often rejected
Wind/Snow Ratings	Verified	Often unknown
Drawings	Engineer-stamped	None
Cost	Higher upfront	Cheaper upfront
NDurability	Designed for long-term use	Basic or temporary use
Best for	Homes, shops	Storage, farming

The Biggest Mistakes Buyers Make with Wind and Snow Load Ratings

People buy metal buildings all the time, but not everyone pays attention to the details before signing on the dotted line. Below, we’ve put together some of the biggest slip-ups first-time buyers make:

• Assuming all buildings are the same

They’re not. Location changes everything and houses even a few miles apart may have vastly different requirements.

• Going cheap over safe

A low-cost building will likely fail local code or inspection.

• Skipping certification

Non-certified buildings can’t always be permitted.

• Not thinking ahead

Future enclosures or equipment can overload a structure built for light storage.

What Building Officials Want

Inspectors want to see proof your building is safe. They check a few key things, including:

• Wind speeds for your address

Inspectors will base wind load requirements off your location.

• Snow loads

This includes roof and ground loads.

• Exposure category

Your exposure category details how open your site is to wind.

• Foundation details

Building officials will want information about your foundation and anchoring system.

What To Ask When Buying a Metal Building in Snow and Windy Regions?

There’s more to buying the right metal building than just finding a size you like and pulling the trigger. Before you buy, make sure to ask:

• Does this building meet the wind and snow load requirements for your location?
• Is the building certified or non-certified?
• Are stamped engineering drawings included?
• Do you offer reinforcements for high wind/snow areas?

Quick Buying Checklist

Buying a metal building can feel overwhelming. But with this checklist, you can make sure you stay on track:

• Check local wind speeds
• Confirm roof and ground snow loads
• Know if certification is required
• Ask for stamped engineering drawings
• Verify exposure category
• Review foundation and anchor options
• Consider future use

Choose a Quality Provider of Certified Metal Buildings

Wind and snow loads are what keep your building standing when the weather takes a turn for the worse. Getting your specs right from the start helps make the permitting process easier and provides you with the peace of mind of knowing your building is up to its environment.

Whether you’re planning a residential metal building, an agricultural structure, or your next business, Get Carports can help deliver the structure you need. Our pre-fab metal buildings are built with quality steel, certified engineering, and durability that goes beyond.

FAQs about Wind and Snow Loads for Metal Buildings

It makes sense that you may have questions about metal building wind and snow loads. To help, we’ve answered some of the ones that cross our desk the most:

1. What is a “good” wind rating?

Answer: This depends on your area. Many homes require 130–150 MPH. Coastal or high-risk zones may need more.

2. Snow load vs roof live load?

Answer: Snow load is just snow. Roof live load includes workers, gear, or temporary weight.

3. Do I need a certified building for a permit?

Answer: Almost always, yes. Certified buildings with stamped drawings make permitting easier.

4. What does “risk category” mean?

Answer: It shows how critical the building is from simple storage to occupied spaces.

5. Can I install on gravel?

Answer: Some non-certified buildings allow it, but most certified ones need concrete foundations.

6. Do you provide stamped drawings?

Answer: Yes. Certified buildings come with engineer-stamped drawings for permits and inspections.