Equipment Used
A Stormtech Systems consists of only name brand quality parts manufactured by leading U.S. manufacturers including Hilti, Union Wire Rope and Crosby. The products used by these leading manufacturers were used for test purposes and are included in every Stormtech System™ purchased.
Method of Testing
Testing was performed as a simulation of reverse wind pressure on a 1/4 scale model house. A Stormtech System™ is designed to transfer external wind loads applying pressure to the home or building to the foundation. The testing performed applied the same methodology for applying pressure to the foundation by creating uplift air pressure inside the structure.
Building The Frame
A 28x12 framed home was used for our test purposes. The specifications were a 6/12 pitch roof, standard 2x6 trusses placed on 24” centers and 2x4 stud walls. The trusses were not nailed or fastened down to the walls of the structure to test the Stormtech System™ itself.
Installing the System
Pre-made brackets, cables, anchors and turnbuckles were installed within the structure. The cables are run through the structure from end to end. This provides the patented system that permits roofs and structures to withstand the wind loads that occur during typical wind storms.
Inspecting the System
As shown on the photo, plastic was placed over the trusses to provide an air tight seal for the internal air pressure test. During this phase, all brackets and turnbuckles were inspected for proper installation. The cables were tightened to 700+ pounds of pressure which was measured by a dynometer.
Applying the Roof
Because the test completed applied internal air pressure, the roof had to be applied to withstand the simulated wind speed that creates the internal pressure. This was done to ensure the pressure was applied to the Stormtech System™ and not the structure itself. The roof of the structure was 5/8” OSB plywood and was applied with 2” screws.
Applying Roof Bracing
The plywood sheathing was then braced using 2x4 studs to simulate roof coverings.
Uplift Presure Test
The test shows air pressure building up within the structure that causes lift in the roof. The trusses are not fastened down and the test is relying solely on the Stormtech System™. The plastic is intentionally left loose on the outer rim of the structure to avoid tearing while testing.
Testing Lift Measurement
A level, as shown in this photo, was used to measure lift during the testing process.
Monitoring the System
The testing included three cameras within the structure and two cameras outside the structure. Air pressure gauges were used to show pounds of pressure per square foot inside the structure.
Internal Camera Placement
The monitors reflect the images from the three internal cameras. One camera was used to record the dynometer reading of which showed cable tension in the ridge. The second camera was used to show any anchor movement. The third camera was used to show truss movement from the wall, if any.
Test Results - Success
The test results were very successful and reflected that the Stormtech System™ will withstand a 165 mile an hour wind of which surpassed the wind speeds of most wind storms. Under this test load, the pressure utilized approximately 1/2 of the system’s capabilities.
Safety Tests
A Stormtech Systems™ consists of only name brand quality parts manufactured by leading U.S. manufacturers including Hilti, Union Wire Rope and Crosby. The products used by these leading manufacturers were used for test purposes and are included in every Stormtech System™ purchased.