The primary function of roofs in high alpine environments is to shed snow, ice and rain off of the buildings. Protecting people from man-made avalanches sliding off these roofs is critical. Preventing snow and ice from building up on walkways, entries and driveways is equally important.
The freeze-thaw cycle on roofs continually transforms snow to ice, ice to water, and water back to ice. As mountain architects our job is to anticipate this massive accumulation of frozen water on buildings and where it sheds.
Counterintuitively, many mountain roofs are designed to hold snow on the roof or, in the case of butterfly roofs, to concentrate this frozen mass at the center of a building. These types of roofs require electrical snow melt systems, additional roof waterproofing and internal drain systems. This adds cost, complexity and increased maintenance for the building.
We prefer functional roofs, utilizing gables, shed forms, covered porches, deep overhangs and thoughtful consideration of the flow of frozen mass off the roof. It is not traditional design, nor modern and contemporary, rather it is common sense mountain architecture.
Which roof do you want for your mountain home?
If you are planning on building your mountain home and want to rely on our knowledge and expertise, contact us!