[WEBINAR] Wind Uplift Resistance of Roofs: Understanding and Complying with CSA A123.21

Along with changes in building codes, the wind resistance performance requirements for roof assemblies have become considerably more stringent. Although wind loads were previously considered in building codes, there was no standardized method to reliably evaluate the actual resistance of roofing systems to wind loads specific to the Canadian context. The CSA A123.21 standard is now established as the national reference for evaluating the dynamic resistance of roofing systems to wind loads.

This webinar will guide you through the key principles of CSA A123.21, from wind load calculations to testing methods. We will also look at how to interpret publications and apply the rules for modifying evaluated assemblies to promote project flexibility while ensuring compliance.

1. Understanding the principles of wind load calculation
2. Learning the test methods of the CSA A123.21 standard and its performance criteria
3. Applying the principles to follow for modifications to evaluated assemblies

Jean-François Côté, Ph.D.
Director, Standards and Scientific Affairs

Jean-François Côté holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry from the Université de Sherbrooke and a Ph.D. in Materials Science from the Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS) obtained in 1998.

He joined SOPREMA in 1999 as a Chemist, where he worked on the development of adhesives and sealants used in construction and civil engineering. From 2009 to 2015, as Director of Strategic Development at SOPREMA, he coordinated the activities of the R&D, Technical and Marketing Departments of the company. In his current role, he represents SOPREMA on technical committees of manufacturers’ associations (ARMA, PIMA, and CIMAC), in addition to being actively engaged in various North American standards development organizations (CSA, ASTM, and ULC).

He is a registered Chemist in the province of Québec with the OCQ, is Vice-Chair of the ASTM D08 Committee on Roofing and Waterproofing, and Chair of the CSA A123 Technical Committee on Roofing Materials.

Renaud Lizée, Eng.
Technical Support Manager

Renaud Lizée holds a civil engineer degree from the Université de Sherbrooke. He joined SOPREMA’s Technical Department in 2016 and has been Manager of Technical Support since 2021. Recognized for his talents as an educator, he has in-depth expertise in the standards of the National Building Code, materials and their installation methods. With nearly 10 years of experience within the company, he supports industry professionals in building ever more sustainable and efficient structures.