Analysis of wind-induced economic losses resulting from roof damage to a metal building

Metal roofs are highly susceptible to hurricane wind damage. Roof damage is a particularly important element in the estimation of economic losses as even minor roof damage can augment the total loss due to entrance of rain and subsequent interior and content loss. Dabral (2007) developed a probabilistic damage model to predict the physical damage in a metal roof due to wind. This study estimates economic losses associated with high-wind, hurricane events that cause roof damage to metal buildings using Hurricane Katrina data and a hurricane simulation data set. A cost benefit study is also performed to establish the cost effectiveness of mitigation.