Saevfors Consulting

Low cost devices for corrugated, galvanized metal roof sheets

Low pitch, light roofs - usually made of corrugated, galvanized sheets in low-income areas, to save on material costs. Flat roofs are the most vulnerable to strong up lift forces by hurricanes and typhoons.

manila wing

A principle from aeronautics could mitigate this risk: When an Airbus touches down on the runway, spoilers in the wings are immediately opened to eliminate the flying function and reduce speed.

The same concept could be used to eliminate hurricane roof uplifts. The suction created on the leeward side of the roof is the same phenomenon as the force lifting an aircraft.

vac

Simple spring-loaded vaacum release. "Tourist bed" springs are excellent for this. An 8 mm rebar, provides the right spring tension.

Design Concept

soupe

When the suction-uplift force exceeds an alarming level, the roof sheets automatically open to weaken it.

Only every third range of roof sheets needs to be spring-loaded. It opens at this critical up lift force to neutralize it. As these "safety valve" springs are pre-stressed they safeguard tight closure after the gusts have passed to avoid leaking rain water.

A prototype has been tested* for 110 mph = 176 km/h wind speed. (US norms for 50 year return, Port au Prince)
* Applying a truck jack underneath.

Soupape_manual

Website updates mostly on a daily basis.

Thursday 15 October, 2026 | Copy with reference to www saevfors se | ingemar saevfors se | All rights reserved |