Wednesday

October 8, 2025 2:00 pm

- 2:50 pm

OLYMPIA B

The Anatomy of a Roofing Failure

Join Copeland Atlanta Principal Arjun Bir, PE, RRC, RRO as he explores the mechanics of a roofing failure. This presentation will explore the common causes, investigative processes, and rehabilitation approaches that can help restore the integrity of compromised roofing systems. Arjun will introduce the audience to the components of roof systems and how they work together to control the flow of water, air, heat and vapor through the building envelope. Audience members will also learn about wind design, drainage design and commonly used testing protocols for roofing systems.

1. Understand the structural role of the roof deck – Explore how the roof deck supports the overall integrity of a roofing system and impacts failure scenarios.

2. Identify common causes of roofing failures – Examine where, how, and why roofing failures occur, including design flaws, environmental impacts, and material deficiencies.

3. Evaluate rehabilitation approaches – Compare the decision-making process for repair, recovery, or full roof replacement, considering cost, longevity, and performance factors.

4. Integrate key design considerations for roof replacements – Discuss wind uplift resistance, drainage planning, withdrawal resistance, and tested assembly requirements to enhance durability.

5. Navigate regulatory and warranty requirements – Review standards such as ES-1 and GT-1, ensuring compliance while maximizing long-term roof performance.

Arjun Bir, PE, RRC, RRO

Principal & Unit Manager

Copeland Building Envelope Consulting

Arjun Bir is a building scientist and licensed professional engineer (GA, AL, SC, NC, TN) with a background in structural engineering, and a specialization in the design, investigation, and rehabilitation of building enclosures (roofing, exterior wall, fenestration, and waterproofing systems). He is a registered roof observer (RRO) and registered roof consultant (RRC) with the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) and serves on IIBEC’s Excellence in Building Enclosure Consulting Award Committee and a judge.

Arjun has worked on 110+ projects, and has successfully managed building enclosure consulting services exceeding $50M in construction value. He leverages his 12+ years of leadership experience in non-profit, startup, and academic research spaces to deliver effective engineering solutions, and an unmatched client experience.

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