Tropical Storm Debby + Improper Penetrations = Roof Collapse

In late June, we were called to investigate the cause of a roof collapse in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby on an older, single-story commercial property in Tarpon Springs, FL. The building had a low-slope, built-up-roof (BUR) assembly with a short raised parapet wall, which directed drainage against the front wall to drain inlets located between crickets.

Our first step was to collect whatever data we could to recreate the history leading up to the event and then to inspect the roof to identify if the damage was solely the result of storm damage or if other factors had played a part. Our visual observation revealed that the drains were blocked with debris and other drain inlets had been added to accommodate a large deflected section located just below one of the HVAC units. A 2-inch PVC pipe had been installed in this area as a makeshift drain to take out water which apparently collected around the equipment stand. As a result of this choice to remedy the conditions with this sort of ‘band aid’ solution, water was directed to the drain inlet. The weight buildup from accumulated water could not be discharged adequately through the improvised roof drains, leading to catastrophic roof failure.

This failure was a result of roof assembly modifications that did not conform to Florida Building Code or general good practice, along with the further offense of deferred maintenance. Had this owner contacted RAMCON before installing this drain or been enrolled in RAMCON’s proactive maintenance programs, appropriate maintenance and repairs would have prevented the occurrence and the resulting costly losses.
Alterations like these run the risk of sending water to areas of the roof that were not designed to accept the added load, leading ultimately and inevitably to catastrophe.  The RAMCON team are experts at evaluating potential roof design changes and anticipating on how they will effect roof performance. As well as provide you the proper resources to budget annually for proper roof analysis, evaluation and repairs to insure the performance of BUR assemblies, or any type of system, over their necessary service life and to prevent unnecessary damages like those sustained in this case.