Roof Failure

A roof failure investigation requires that a large number of elements be closely examined to properly determine the real cause of loss. Some of the key elements an expert must examine include the type of roofing involved, weather reports during the time of loss, proper installation procedures for a particular style of roof, and normal wear and tear factors associated with aging.

Donan’s experienced team of engineers and experts has the ability to determine the difference between storm-related damage and defective roofing materials, defective installation, or maintenance issues. Donan Engineering routinely investigates roofing losses to determine if the roofs have been hail or wind damaged. Our experts are skilled not only at determining the cause of the loss, but also at making possible subrogation suggestions based on the evidence compiled during the investigation.

Donan Engineering began conducting forensic studies on roofs of every make and design since the early 1980s, and today we study over 1,000 roofs a year. Roof failure forensics represents a major component of our business, and we pride ourselves on providing knowledgeable, legally recognized expertise on commercial and residential roofing for the entire portfolio of roof systems, installation methods, and failure perils.

The information on the following pages is intended to be an informative example of some of the more common types of roofing projects that we are asked to evaluate. These examples and illustrations are by no means comprehensive. Donan Engineering conducts a considerable amount of "roof failures" training each year so that our engineers will stay up-to-date on the most recent industry developments. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about the content you see here, or if you would be interested to learn more about forensic studies of various roofing types, conditions, etc.