Menu path
Tools > Mass Calculations
🧾 What it does
The Mass Calculations command allows you to calculate the total mass (weight) for your roof based on the calculated roof area and a mass per unit area value that you specify. This is useful for structural load calculations, material planning, and compliance with building codes.
🔧 How to use it
Complete your roof design and ensure all roof planes are properly defined
Go to Tools menu and select Mass Calculations
Enter the mass per unit area value for your roofing material
Click to calculate - the system will multiply your total roof area by the mass per unit area
Review the calculated total mass result
🛠 Mass per unit area values
You'll need to input the mass per unit area (density) for your specific roofing material. Common values might include:
Material | Typical Mass per Unit Area |
Concrete tiles | 45-55 kg/m² |
Clay tiles | 40-50 kg/m² |
Metal sheeting | 4-8 kg/m² |
Slate | 25-30 kg/m² |
Asphalt shingles | 8-15 kg/m² |
Note: Always verify material specifications with your supplier as densities can vary by manufacturer and product type.
💡 Practical applications
Structural calculations: Determine dead loads for engineering assessments
Material planning: Calculate total material weight for transport and crane requirements
Code compliance: Verify roof loads meet building code requirements
Cost estimation: Factor material weight into delivery and installation costs
⚠️ Important considerations
Mass calculations are based on the net roof area - ensure your roof design is complete before calculating
The calculation includes only the primary roofing material - add additional components (battens, insulation, etc.) separately
Results are for material weight only - structural analysis should be performed by qualified engineers