Using the button 
you define the terrain parameters for generating snow loads. The following dialogue appears:
- Standard
Select the standard and national annex according to which you wish to generate snow loads.
A full list of available standards in Diamonds can be found here.
The following explanation refers to EN 1991-1-3. - Snow load at ground level
The available options depend on the selected national annex.- Select the area.
- Enter the altitude of the structure above sea level.
- Based on the area and altitude the characteristic value of the snow load sk at ground level can be determined.
- If you want to take the design life time of the structure into account, check the option “Return period adjustment”.
- Exposure coefficient and thermal coefficient
The exposure coefficient Ce takes the effect of wind erosion into account.
In Belgium and the Netherlands, this coefficient is assimilated at 1,0.
The thermal coefficient Ct takes into consideration the effect of heat loss through the roof.
In the case of normal thermal isolation, this coefficient also equals 1,0. - Overhanging snow
For the zones situated at an altitude exceeding 800m above the sea level, it is advisable to take into account the hanging snow. It results in an additional vertical load on an edge of the roof. You can decide if you want to take into account this additional load by checking a corresponding option.
