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Wind Uplift Testing: Evaluating Roof Resistance to Wind Forces

Wind Uplift Testing

At CORE Forensics, we understand the critical importance of ensuring roofing systems’ structural integrity and resilience. That’s why we offer comprehensive wind uplift testing services. Our wind uplift machine is a cornerstone of our testing capabilities, providing valuable insights into a roofing system’s ability to withstand upward forces caused by simulated wind pressures.

How It Works

Our wind uplift testing process simulates negative pressure conditions that mimic the suction forces exerted by high winds. This is achieved through a controlled pressure system that applies increasing levels of uplift force to a roofing assembly as a diagnostic procedure.

The modes of failure detected by this test method include adhesive failure of bonding adhesive to underside of membrane, cohesive failure of bonding adhesive, adhesive failure of bonding adhesive to substrate, and cohesive failure of substrate.

During testing, we utilize calibrated instrumentation and data acquisition to measure:

Achieved/Not Achieved – The point at which materials do not / do detach under wind uplift testing forces.
Deflection and Deformation – How the roofing system flexes under stress.

Our testing is conducted in accordance with recognized industry standards, including:

E907−25 - Standard Test Method for Field Testing Uplift Resistance of Adhered Membrane Roofing Systems (1)
FM Global 4474 – Approval for roofing materials in high-wind zones.
UL 1897 – Uplift resistance of roof assemblies.
ASCE 7 – Wind load calculations for building design.

Uplift testing equipment on roof of building

Purpose Of The Testing

Wind uplift testing serves as a crucial tool for assessing the wind resistance of roofing systems and identifying potential vulnerabilities. It has the potential to detect if the roof system has been compromised by a peril that could assist in mitigating wind-related risks in the future. This testing also helps roofing professionals and property owners make informed decisions regarding their roof systems and if repairs are needed.

Benefits Of Wind Uplift Testing

Wind uplift testing offers key benefits that contribute to the overall resilience, safety, and longevity of roofing systems:

Risk Mitigation

Wind uplift testing helps identify weaknesses in roofing systems before they lead to costly failures during hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe storms.
It has the potential to detect if the roof system has been compromised by a peril that could assist in mitigating wind-related risks in the future. Corrective measures can be implemented, such as repair/replace to enhance roof integrity and durability.

Quality Assurance & Insurance Benefits

Wind uplift testing provides documented data that demonstrates a roofing system’s reliability under real-world (controlled simulation) conditions. This not only reassures property owners and contractors but also helps insurers to asssess risk exposure more accurately.

Why Choose CORE Forensics

At CORE Forensics, we combine advanced technology, expert analysis, and industry-standard testing methodologies to deliver accurate and fact-based results. Our wind uplift testing services can help clients protect their investments and potentially reduce future risks through informed decision making.

(1) This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D08 on Roofing and Waterproofing and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D08.20 on Roofing Membrane Systems.

Current edition approved Dec. 15, 2025. Published January 2026. Originally approved in 1983. Last previous edition approved in 2004 as E907 – 96 (2004), which was withdrawn in 2013 and reinstated December 2025. DOI: 10.1520/E0907-25.