Wind Loads
The 2004 and 2005 hurricanes have demonstrated again that wind induced damage to rooftop equipment continues to be a leading cause of duced loss in buildings, disruption of operation, and delay in recovery. Dislocation of rooftop equipment can leave large openings that allow water to enter the building, can puncture the roof membrane, which again allows water to enter the building, and can pose significant threats as windborne debris. Failure of exposed mechanical equipment and the associated electrical and plumbing connections can lead to extended loss of function and significant delays in drying out the building and getting it back on line once the power grid is restored to the area.Citation: ASHRAE Journal, Vol. 48, No. 3