Did you Know?
The 2020 NBC and the SEAOC PV1 document both require that friction testing be completed to ASTM G115, by an accredited laboratory, in order to use friction to resist seismic forces.
The Challenge
What the NBC 2020 is classifying as a seismic zone has included far more cities than in the previous version. This is no surprise on the West Coast, or in the Ottawa region, but it even includes many locations in the Greater Toronto Area, among other locations. These low to moderate seismic zones will require anchors for resistance unless frictional resistance can be considered.
NBC 2020: section 4.1.8.18 (18) states that the friction testing must be determined in accordance with ASTM G115, by an accredited laboratory, in order to consider frictional resistance and avoid anchors.
TerraGen has you covered
TerraGen has completed friction testing to ASTM G115 through an accredited laboratory. Every major roof membrane type was tested with our system, and our rubber pad delivered excellent friction coefficients which will allow TerraGen to avoid anchors completely in almost all locations in Canada (provided that minimum parapet conditions are met).
At TerraGen, we see rigorous testing and certification to code standards as a requirement, to set the highest standard for safety, reliability, and compliance. By prioritizing both optimization and safety, TerraGen ensures a system you can trust for years to come.
ASTM G115 Testing Benefits:
- Avoid Seismic Anchors: Excellent results allow us to avoid anchors in seismic zones, wherever possible.
- Lower Ballast Requirements: Friction also helps sliding resistance against wind loads! This further optimizes TerraGen’s already market leading ballast requirements, for smaller arrays subject to drag loads.
- Safety & Reliability: Ensures the system behaves as expected under seismic loads, protecting both the system and roof over time.
- Code Compliance: It is a requirement of the 2020 NBC and the SEAOC PV1 in order to avoid anchors.
Contact TerraGen for more information!