Do I Need Senteck?

The Risk of Roof Collapse
While Senteck DMD-1000 can help reduce the cost of clearing snow, water, and ice from a flat or low-sloped roof, it's primary function is to serve as an early warning system that guards against roof collapse.

There is a real need for Senteck. Each year, there are more than 3,000 roof collapses - and 20 associated deaths - in the US alone. Further, the cost, delays, and lost business associated with a roof collapse can force an otherwise successful business to close. Without proper safeguards, the incidence of roof collapse is likely to increase in the years ahead. Why? Live load codes changed from 28 to 35 pounds in 1975, and to 40 pounds in 1982. Many buildings constructed before 1976, therefore, do not meet these basic requirements. Further, these non-conforming conditions are exacerbated when a new roof is applied - especially one with added R-value - or when hanging displays or conveyors are added to the interior trusses.

Even newer buildings may need a Senteck system - especially during severe weather. Even though climatological conditions have modified the intensity of storms considerably, none of the building code agencies in the US (BOCA, ICBO, and SBCCI) have updated roof load requirements related to 100, 50, and 20 year storms within the last ten years. So, even if a roof conforms to the most recent codes, it may be in jeopardy during severe storm-loading.

While Senteck cannot increase the load capacity of any roof, it can serve as an early warning system that alerts managers when roof loads are approaching a critical stage. Having this kind of information will help reduce the incidence of roof collapse in the years ahead.

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Incidence of Roof Collapse | Other Reported Roof Collapses
30 Second Qualifier Quiz | Senteck Installations