The Snowiest States in America-and Why Roofs in These Regions Need Snow Retention Systems

Every winter, certain parts of the United States transform into some of the snowiest places on earth. While snowfall can be beautiful, it also creates serious risks for homes, businesses, and the people who live and work around them. Understanding where the heaviest snow occurs, and why it matters- is the first step in protecting your property.

At Ice Control Engineering, Inc., we specialize in engineered snow‑retention systems designed for the harshest winter climates. If you live or work in a snow‑heavy region, the data below shows exactly why these systems are so important.

The Snowiest States in the U.S.

Historic 24‑hour snowfall records reveal just how extreme winter weather can be across the country. Here are some of the states that have seen the most dramatic single‑day totals:

• Alaska – 78 inches in 24 hours (1963), with the highest annual snowfall in the nation
• Colorado – 75.8 inches (1921)
• California – 67 inches in the Sierra Nevada, home to some of the deepest snowpacks
• Washington – 65 inches (1999) in the Cascade Range
• New Hampshire – 49.3 inches (1969)
• New York – 49 inches (1900), especially in lake‑effect regions
• Montana – 48 inches (1916)
• South Dakota – 43 inches (2013)
• Vermont – 42 inches (1995)
• Idaho – 42 inches (1969), with extreme totals in the central Rockies
• Maine – 41.8 inches (2008)
• Wyoming – Over 40 inches (2021)
• Pennsylvania – 38 inches during major nor’easters
• Utah – 38 inches (1982), with major accumulation in the Wasatch
• Minnesota – 36 inches (1991), with consistent statewide snowfall

Whether the cause is elevation, lake‑effect bands, or powerful winter storm systems, these regions share one thing in common: significant snow accumulation year after year.

And with heavy snow comes heavy risk.

Why Heavy Snowfall Puts Roofs and People, at Risk

When snow builds up on a roof, it doesn’t always stay there. Sudden releases, often called roof avalanches- can happen without warning. The results can be costly and dangerous:

• Damage to gutters, lower roofs, HVAC units, and landscaping
• Crushed vehicles or equipment
• Serious injury to anyone walking below
• Liability exposure for property owners

Snow doesn’t just fall. It slides, shifts, and releases with tremendous force. That’s why engineered snow‑retention systems are so important.

How Snow Retention Systems Protect Your Property

Snow guards and snow‑fence systems are designed to hold snow in place, so it melts gradually and safely. Instead of releasing in one massive sheet, snow drains off the roof in a controlled, predictable way.

For homes, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities in snow‑prone states, snow retention systems offer:

• Increased safety for occupants and visitors
• Reduced property damage
• Longer roof lifespan
• Lower long‑term maintenance costs

In many regions, these systems aren’t just helpful, they’re essential.

Engineered Solutions for Snow‑Heavy Regions

At Ice Control Engineering, Inc., every project begins with a free custom designed layout and estimate or parts recommendation if a warranted system isn’t desired. To design the right system for your roof, we gather key details such as:

• Roof plans or roof report
• Roof Type
• Roof slope and geometry
• Project location, elevation, and snow‑load requirements
• Preferred snow‑guard style, material, and color

With this information, our design team creates a tailored system recommendation built to perform under your site‑specific conditions.

Protect Your Roof Before the Next Storm

If your property is in a snow‑heavy region, now is the time to prepare.

Call 801‑854‑5167 or visit IceControlEngineering.com to get started.

Our team will walk you through the details and deliver a snow‑retention solution engineered for your roof, and your climate.