Rain Loads and Flow Attenuation on Roofs

Abstract

Basic relationships are derived for calculating the flow attenuation and depth of storm water on roofs. Hyetographs and corresponding hydrographs are specialized to the case of roof drainage and incorporated in methods which are presented for analysis and design of roof drains. Roof storage and outflow are characterized for various roof geometries and outflow devices. The methods are applied to examples found in the literature, including those in standards of Factory Mutual Insurance Company, ASCE, and others. Assumptions implicit in those standards are tested and their limitations demonstrated. A critical duration at which the greatest water depth and outflow occur must be found on a case-by-case basis. The critical durations can differ significantly from the fixed durations specified in standards. The corresponding maximum water depths and peak outflows can also differ accordingly. For determination of roof loads, these results will have their greatest importance in warmer climates in which the rain loads govern over snow loads. An example of design specifically for flow attenuation is also presented.