Dynamic Wind Uplift Testing

Element’s dynamic wind uplift testing simulates the effects of wind on membrane-roof assemblies, ensuring your product withstands wind uplift forces over time and meets the requirements of the Canadian standards CSA A123.21 and CAN/ ULC-S742.

Wind uplift forces introduce stresses within the roof system causing fatigue, which may result in severe roof damage and premature roof failure. Testing the resistance of roofing systems to wind dynamics has, therefore, become critical to roofing manufacturers to ensure their product resists the adverse wind conditions required by the relevant industry standards.  

Element has developed a wind uplift testing chamber in accordance with the standards established by the National Research Council of Canada - Institute for Research in Construction (NRC-IRC) and is the only independent third-party laboratory in Canada to be accredited to perform dynamic wind uplift testing to both CSA A123.21 and CAN/ ULC-S742. 

Understanding dynamic wind uplift testing

Dynamic wind uplift testing determines the dynamic uplift resistance (DUR) of a roof assembly. Knowledge of this rating is critical to select the appropriate roof assembly that can withstand potential wind uplift loads depending on the building and geographic location.     

To perform testing, we subject samples to dynamic wind load cycles based on wind pressure records, simulating the effects of wind on the sample in a controlled environment. 

The result of a dynamic wind uplift testing provides insight to estimate the structural resistance of a roofing system and ensures it meets wind load design requirements. It also helps to identify weaknesses in the roofing system, helping manufacturers to address them before catastrophic failure occurs.  

To learn more about our dynamic wind uplift testing services, or to speak to one of our experts, contact us today.