Welding of Aluminium Connections Welded aluminium connections used in pergolas, canopies, and similar light architectural structures in the United States must be designed and executed in accordance with recognized structural welding codes and building regulations. Although these structures may appear secondary, they are subjected to wind loads, uplift forces, and service loads that require proper …
Gable End Bracing and the FORTIFIED Program Gable end walls are a well-documented weak point in high-wind events. When a gable end fails, wind and rain can enter the attic and interior, often leading to extensive structural and water damage. The FORTIFIED® Home program specifically addresses this risk by requiring improved gable end bracing and …
Pedestal-Supported Roof Paver Systems Roof paver systems installed on plastic pedestals are increasingly used to provide accessible walkways, terraces, and service areas on flat roofs. These systems typically consist of concrete, wood, or composite pavers supported by adjustable plastic pedestals, with the pavers either mechanically attached to the pedestals or bonded using adhesives. Avoidance of …
Roof Deck Paver Systems on Pedestals: A Wind Uplift Design Overview Read More »
Installing A Railing Around Mechanical Equipment? It could be easier than you think. Railings around mechanical equipment, as opposed to general use pedestrian railings, can be designed to a different standard. These types of railing include those that protect: • Roofs of commercial buildings • Industrial facilities • Mechanical rooms Railing systems of all kinds …
Differences Between Designing a Railing For General Use vs. Rooftop Mechanical Equipment Read More »
Beware of Snow Buildup On Open Roof Areas An important and frequently overlooked requirement for checking snow loads on open roof systems such as pergolas, trellises, and mechanically louvered roofs is the snow ‘buildover’ effect. This occurs when the snow accumulates on open patio roof components to the point where it builds ‘up and over’, …
Snow Build-Over On Pergolas, Trellises & Mechanically Louvered Roofs (Cornice Effect) Read More »
Many ask if there’s a difference between a 1 hour fire rating on a wall product vs a 1 hour fire rating on a roof product. If you think about it, fire (AKA heat) does behave differently as it rises vs. spreads. In fact, there is a difference: In the Florida Building Code (2020), & …
The minimum roof slope requirement for metal panels varies depending on panel connection conditions. The required roof slope varies with application of materials and use. See the below Florida Building Code 7th Edition (2020) sections below to determine which slope is appropriate based on your specific design scenario. Definition METAL ROOF PANEL. An interlocking …
What is the Minimum Roof Slope for Metal Panels and other Roof Types? Read More »
Here’s a chart illustrating some of the many dimensions and components needed to design a site specific open patio / pergola / carport / louvered roof type structure. It’s best if you start with an existing Master Plan from one of our manufacturer partners. Mark those up & create your sketches using the information from …
Typical Information Needed For Engineering Design of a Patio-Pergola Roof Read More »
