Structural Engineering

Commercial PV Roof Assessment

Penn Fusion Engineering performs structural roof top analyses for commercial buildings. For large scale commercial buildings, it is absolutely necessary to begin the assessment with a site visit. For large scale commercial properties there are many variables that have an affect on the roof structure. We typically start by looking at the roof.

One item we look at is the roof drains. Depending on how the drains are configured and if there are secondary drains in place will determine the amount of rain load is required. Fun fact, roof structures must be analyzed for rain load (Section 1611.1 of the International Building Code).

Another roof configuration that we look for are parapets and changes in roof elevations. In many regions of the country, this can cause a potential snow drift location where the snow load can be substantially higher than the rest of the roof.

There are many roof structure types. One of the more popular roof structures is steel bar joists. But identifying a bar joist isn't the same as identifying a wood rafter. Precise measurements are required to determine the available strength.

When Penn arrives at the site, we will come with or have delivered a personnel lift so that we can get up and close to the roof structure. We will measure the roof system with calipers to ensure we get the most accurate data.