Low-Slope Roofs for Future Climate Challenges: A Forensic Perspective
Roof failures—collapses, blow-offs, and energy inefficiency—often result from design flaws and inadequate performance considerations. This session takes a forensic approach to analyzing these failures, focusing on water intrusion, wind loads, and temperature impacts worsening with climate change. Through real-world case studies, we’ll explore why roofs fail and how designers can improve performance. Attendees will learn about key causes of roof failures, the impact of climate change, and strategies for designing more resilient low-slope roofs. Geared toward architects, engineers, roofing consultants, and building enclosure specialists, this session aims to equip professionals with the knowledge to create safer and longer-lasting roofs.
Dr. Javeriya Hasan, PhD (Building Science), MBSc, MSc, BEng (Hons)
EIT Associate, Civil & Structural & Building Science
30 Forensic Engineering
Dr. Hasan is an associate with the Civil & Structural Engineering and Building Science & Building Envelope Engineering group at 30 Forensic Engineering. She holds a Ph.D. in building science from Toronto Metropolitan University, where her research involved the development of a machine learning-based tool for solar neighbourhood planning. Her experience lies in the areas of sustainability and built environment, with an emphasis on building energy efficiency, building performance, and resilience.
Robert Hemphill, RBEC, RRC, RWC, REWC
Building Enclosure Specialist
Salas O'Brien
Robert Hemphill is a Building Enclosure Consultant and a Registered Building Enclosure Consultant. He has extensive experience in roofing and waterproofing materials, and is a Construction Specifications Institute Certified Document Technologist. He is a frequent speaker at industry seminars and conventions, and a member of the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants. He worked as a California State Licensed Contractor and worked for 21 years in that capacity.
Length: 01:15:28
Last Updated: October 15, 2025