Performance of various semi-engineered roof deck systems under high velocity winds

This paper summarizes observations made in the field, limited tests performed in the laboratoryand analytical evaluation done on various forms of semi-engineered roof deck systems. the paper alsohighlights some of the critical issues involved in the design of semi-engineered roof deck systemssubjected to high velocity winds.the roof structures of typical semi-engineered residences in countries such as india and belize arebelieved to be able to resist the effects of severe winds. however, relatively recent cyclonic events havedemonstrated that roof systems of the types typically built in belize and india are indeed among themost vulnerable major component of semi-engineered buildings under high velocity winds. this paperhighlights just how vulnerable the various components of these roof systems are to high velocity winds.the paper, sequel to a previously published paper, is partially based on work done in connection witha doctoral dissertation being undertaken by the primary author thurton [1]. the paper includes somegeneral results of some investigations done based on building techniques utilized in the construction ofroof systems in urban communities of belize and parts of india.