The growing need to storm test building materials

The durability and resilience of buildings are under greater scrutiny than ever before due to extreme weather events from hurricanes, hailstorms and high winds, which are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change. This in turn means that roofing and waterproofing systems, in particular, now have to play a more critical role in protecting structures and their occupants from these natural disasters, writes John Ridgeway.

Organisations across the world, tasked with accrediting construction products are waking up to this challenge. Most recently we have seen the opening of a new facility by US company Siplast, in Arkansas, dedicated to storm testing and the development of high-performance building materials able to meet the demands of an unpredictable climate. It’s a trend which is gaining momentum worldwide as we seek to protect our buildings from the elements.

Climate change has led to an increase in the frequency, intensity, and unpredictability of storms. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the United States experienced 18 weather and climate disasters in 2022 alone, each causing over $1 billion in damages. Globally, hurricanes and typhoons are producing stronger winds, heavier rainfall and larger storm surges, creating more significant risks to infrastructure.

The financial toll of storm-related damages is staggering. The Insurance Information Institute reports that insured losses from natural disasters in 2021 amounted to $105 billion globally, with a large share attributed to storm damage. Beyond monetary costs, the human toll - displacement, injuries, and loss of life - underscores the urgent need for more resilient building systems.

As urbanisation accelerates, more people are living in densely populated areas with extensive infrastructure. Damage to buildings in urban centres can disrupt businesses, schools, healthcare facilities and supply chains. It means therefore, that storm-resistant construction is more vital than ever if we are to minimise these disruptions and ensure the safety of urban communities.

Governments and regulatory bodies worldwide are increasingly emphasising resilience in building codes. Storm-resistant roofing and waterproofing systems in particular, are becoming essential to comply with these stricter standards, especially in regions prone to extreme weather.

Storm testing around the world

In the U.S. and Canada, advancements in storm testing are heavily influenced by the increasing severity of hurricanes. Organisations such as the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) have their own research centre in South Carolina, which simulates hurricane conditions to test building materials, which enables them to test roofing systems under sustained winds exceeding 130 mph and develop materials suited for future climate conditions.

European countries are also integrating storm testing with sustainability initiatives. Facilities in Germany and the Netherlands emphasise the need for storm-resistant roofing made from sustainable resources. This involves developing materials that not only withstand storms but also enhance thermal performance.

The Asia-Pacific region, in particular, faces diverse weather challenges, from typhoons in Japan to monsoons in India. Storm testing in this region focuses on tailoring roofing systems to specific climatic conditions. This involves exploring bamboo-reinforced composites and other regionally available resources.

In developing countries, cost-effective storm testing is emerging as a priority. Initiatives include collaborations with local universities to test materials using affordable methods and developing modular roofing systems that are easy to transport and install.

Emerging technologies in storm testing

Such is the seriousness of the problem, that advanced technologies are being increasingly used to advance storm testing knowledge. Digital twins - virtual replicas of physical systems - are enabling real-time performance analysis of roofing and waterproofing systems. Engineers can simulate various storm scenarios, analyse weaknesses and optimise designs without physical prototypes.

Autonomous robots and AI algorithms are also transforming storm testing. Robots apply consistent forces to roofing systems, ensuring uniformity in tests while AI analyses test data to predict material lifespan and performance under future conditions.

Furthermore, innovations in material science are revolutionising the industry. We are seeing polymers that repair micro-cracks caused by storm impacts and nanotechnology, which can enhance the water-resistance and durability of roofing membranes.

Facilities worldwide are also adopting high-impact simulation chambers that combine wind, rain, hail and debris testing. These chambers replicate complex storm conditions to provide comprehensive performance data – but what does all this mean for the future of construction?

Facilities such as Siplast’s RISE Centre are not just about advancing technology - they are about creating safer, more sustainable communities. Their benefits extend to reduced insurance costs. Storm-resistant products lower the risk of damage, reducing premiums for building owners. Supporting such innovation in the construction industry also generates jobs and stimulates local economies and more durable materials reduce waste and resource consumption, aligning with global sustainability goals.

The Siplast RISE centre marks a turning point in how the construction industry approaches storm-resistant materials. By combining advanced technology, multidisciplinary expertise, and a commitment to innovation, the facility sets a new standard for testing and developing roofing and waterproofing systems.

As extreme weather events become the norm, the importance of storm testing will only grow. Facilities like the RISE Center, alongside global advancements in technology and materials, offer hope for a more resilient future. Through continued investment in research and innovation, the construction industry can rise to the challenge, ensuring that our buildings -and the people who depend on them - remain safe and secure in the face of nature’s fiercest storms.