Processes

The first phase tests the roof edge termination for mechanically attached and ballasted roofing systems. It will evaluate the perimeter attachment to ensure it meets a minimum holding power of 100 lbs./ft. The test simulates a billowing membrane by pulling the membrane at a 45° angle to the roof deck. Any event that allows the membrane to come free from the edge termination, or if the termination itself comes free, results in a failed test.

The second portion of the test evaluates the strength of the metal edge flashing to ensure the fascia system meets or exceeds the building’s calculated design wind pressure. In this pull-off test, a load is applied to the fascia metal, simulating the same force a wind load could potentially bring. We use a calculation of Force at Failure X Face Area = Blow-Off Resistance. The results must meet or exceed the calculated design wind pressure of the building.

The final phase is a pull-off test for metal wall coping. It evaluates the strength of the metal coping cap to ensure it meets or exceeds the building’s calculated design wind pressure. We apply a load to the coping cap simulating wind load and simultaneously apply up and out forces. Using the same calculation of Force at Failure X Face Area = Blow-Off Resistance, we can view the results to look for anything that meets or exceeds the calculated design wind pressure of the building to ensure compliance with codes.