SNOW, HEAVY RAIN, AND ADDITIONAL INSTALLATIONS: A ROOF STRUCTURE HAS TO BEAR A SIGNIFICANT LOAD. BUT IS YOUR ROOF STRONG ENOUGH TO HANDLE TODAY’S DEMANDS? PELECON HELPS BUILDING OWNERS GAIN INSIGHT INTO THE SAFETY AND LOAD-BEARING CAPACITY OF THEIR ROOFS. THIS IS PRECISELY WHAT WE MEAN BY THE “INVISIBLE STRENGTH” OF A BUILDING.
GREATER LOADS THAN ORIGINALLY ANTICIPATED
Many existing roof structures were designed based on the standards in place at the time of their construction. These designs did not always account for factors such as snow accumulation or the additional weight of heavy solar panels and modern building installations. Furthermore, intense rainfall—which is becoming increasingly frequent due to climate change—can pose a significant risk. If rainwater or meltwater is not drained away quickly enough, it can pool on the roof. The weight of this water may cause the structure to deflect further, leading to even more water accumulation. With autumn and winter approaching, it is wise to have your roof structure assessed for sufficient strength and safety. While we carry out roof repairs during the summer, we conduct inspections all year round.
HOW CAN PELECON ASSIST?
Our structural engineers examine existing roof structures to assess their suitability for current and intended loads, ensuring compliance with applicable building standards—specifically NEN-EN 1991 and NEN 8700. Pelecon’s services include:
- Structural roof assessments for solar panel installations (Scope 12), covering both mechanically fastened systems and ballasted configurations.
- Structural checks for rooftop installations, such as air handling units; we evaluate existing roof beams and deck panels, and design supporting steel frames where necessary.
- Assessments of suspended installations, including cooling units, ceilings, and sprinkler piping.
- Investigations into roof drainage; we can arrange for precise measurements of the roof slope and evaluate whether existing emergency overflows are sufficient.
- Water accumulation calculations for scenarios where there is a risk of rainwater pooling.
Expert advice on structural reinforcement, should any components prove to lack sufficient strength or rigidity.
FROM INSPECTION TO CLEAR ADVICE
We begin by reviewing available archival drawings and conducting an on-site inspection to verify that the actual conditions match the documentation. Our assessment covers elements such as roof panels, beams and connections, roof pitch, any deflections, emergency overflows, and existing installations. Following an initial quick scan, we share our findings with the building owner. We then evaluate the roof structure against the applicable standards for structural loads and existing buildings, discussing the parameters for snow loads and safety with the owner.
The final report presents our conclusions, along with a clear overview of recommendations, conditions, and expert advice. This may include guidance on regular gutter maintenance, the permitted placement of solar panels, or measures to reinforce the roof and improve water drainage.
CERTAINTY REGARDING YOUR ROOF STRUCTURE
Whether it concerns the installation of solar panels and equipment, or the impact of snow loads and heavy rainfall, Pelecon identifies the structural possibilities and any potential risks. Would you like to learn more about a roof inspection? Please contact us to arrange an introductory meeting with one of our structural engineers at our Gouda or Amersfoort office.