Wind Uplift Test For Green Roof

Fm loss prevention data sheet 1 52 fm 1 52 field uplift tests provides for two methods of testing wind uplift resistance.

Wind uplift test for green roof.

The specific test that pertains to wind uplift utilizes a test apparatus designed by fm approvals. The negative pressure test and the bonded uplift test. Many institutes have been performing wind tunnel tests on green roofs and canada is the first country to employ a standard method for testing wind uplift on vegetated roofs. Fire safety vegetation free border zone abutting roof penetrations intersecting walls parapets upturns or mechanical equipment is installed as required 7.

This test method is used to determine the amount of fatigue and uplift response of the green roof. The most advanced wind tunnel wind uplift tests are being conducted at the nrc s dynamic roofing facility in ottawa canada using a chamber fan mechanism that simulates the dynamic effects of wind. Ul 1897 the ul 1897 wind test is a continuation of ul 580 and is the standard for uplift tests for roof covering systems. Wind uplift all wind uplift criteria has been incorporated and confirmed by architect or engineer.

The negative pressure test utilizes a five foot by five foot dome that is placed over the roofing membrane surface. The purpose of this test is to gain uplift resistance data for the panel assembly and evaluate the attachment of the roof covering systems to the roof decks. The csa a123 21 14 standard is a normalized test method of the dynamic wind uplift resistance of membrane roofing systems. Safety factor of 1 7 or 200 mm of growing medium depth if the green roof is used as a primary ballast against wind uplift for loose laid waterproofing membrane assemblies.

In order for a structure to be sound and secure the foundation roof and walls must be strong and wind resistant. For mechanically attached single ply roofing systems the test involves building a roof assembly on a test frame that measures 12 feet by 24 feet. Most importantly the test does not simulate real conditions. When building a structure it is important to calculate wind load to ensure that the structure can withstand high winds especially if the building is located in an area known for inclement weather.

The test frame has the appropriate roof deck attached to supports. With the 2014 version of the csa a23 21 standard all roofing systems encountered on the market can be tested. Many institutes have been performing wind tunnel tests on green roofs and canada is the first country to employ a standard method for testing wind uplift on vegetated roofs. The most advanced wind tunnel wind uplift tests are being conducted at the nrc s dynamic roofing facility in ottawa canada using a chamber fan mechanism that simulates the dynamic effects of wind.

The toronto green roof construction standard requires a. To test for wind pressure a full scale uplift chamber evaluates the ability of a vegetated roof assembly to resist a series of simulated wind gusts where pressure builds and subsequently drops.