Durability, Cost and Structural Analysis of a Novel Re-Roofing System

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The use of steel roof decks on flat or low slope roofing typically found in warehouse and long-span light steel structures is intended to perform four primary functions: (i) load distribution, (ii) lateral support (structural diaphragm), (iii) support of the roof assembly (membrane, insulation, etc.) and (iv) fire protection of the roof assembly. Often, steel roof decks become compromised through leaking of corrosive materials or simple long-term oxidation (i.e. rusting). Once the steel decking is corroded, its primary functions are compromised and must be corrected. To date, correction has been achieved by either: (1) removing and replacing areas of damaged decking or (2) installing new decking directly over the damaged areas. Both of these strategies pose significant problems and loss of revenue to building owners and the occupants below the roof. Removal of corroded decking typically suspends all interior operations (i.e. loss of revenue) for relatively long periods of time due to hazardous conditions and risks during the process. Installation of new decking directly over compromised areas typically results in the corrosion continuing (transferring) between the old and new decking. RBS Consulting Engineers Ltd. (RBS) has developed a novel concept to install a new metal deck and roof assembly above existing areas of deteriorated metal decking with little or no interruption to interior processes (i.e. no loss of revenue). The process comprises a plurality of deck straps used to structurally bridge the new roof deck/assembly to the top of the main open-web steel joist system typically found in the warehouse building typology. The proposed research aims to develop novel structural and durability analysis to evaluate various aspects of performance associated with the novel system.