High-Wind Resistant Concrete Roofing – IP 1203

FIU inventors developed a High-WindResistant Concrete Roofing. This system reduces hurricane-induced damage,property losses and insurance costs, and enhances occupant safety, while beingaesthetically attractive, and similar to the existing tile roof systems. Thesystem’s structural and economic feasibility, constructability, and performancehave been validated through detailed experimental investigations. Details ofthe investigations are available upon request. Hurricane-induced damage and property losses are due inlarge part to failure of roofs and water intrusion. To improve roof strengthand performance, this system uses concrete panels reinforced byhigh-performance fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) meshes. The system eliminatescommonly used roof components and subassemblies such as wooden trusses,sheathing, underlayment, and shingles or tiles, which are most vulnerable inhigh winds. The new system replicates the shape and color of commonly usedbarrel tiles or other shapes, thus preserving the aesthetics of traditionalroofing. Additional features are unimpeded and spacious attic space andincreased interior volume underneath the roof. The system’s estimated cost iscomparable to the cost of conventional roofing systems. Shantanu Balkundi sbalkund@fiu.edu 305-348-8061