Impacts on buildings

Storms pose a significant risk to buildings, which can lead to a range of impacts.

Roof lift-off and deformation

Wind pressure and suction can loosen or displace roof tiles, sheets, or entire roof structures. This exposes internal components, such as insulation. Debris is also created, which in turn can cause further damage.

Damage to facade cladding

Storms cause detachment or tearing off of light or poorly fastened facade elements (e.g., panels, plaster sections). This exposes internal components, such as insulation. Debris is also created, which in turn can cause further damage.

Breakage and deformation of windows and doors

Wind pressure and flying debris can break panes, bend frames, or force doors and gates open.

Damage to technical installations

Solar panels, antennas, chimneys, and ventilation units can be loosened, tilted, or torn off by wind forces.

Deformation or weakening of load-bearing components

Extreme gusts generate high horizontal loads that can lead to cracks, deformations, or damage to the load-bearing building structure.

Damage caused by flying objects

Storms hurl loose parts, branches, or light objects against buildings, causing impacts and surface damage.

Damage to outdoor installations

Lightweight structures (carports, sheds, lightweight penthouse floors) and external heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) units can topple or be lifted off by wind pressure.

Disruption of building function due to wind pressure

Short-term pressure fluctuations in the building can stress and damage internal partition walls, frames, and doors. Loose fixtures or objects inside can be thrown around and pose a hazard. Ventilation and air-conditioning systems can also be impaired.

Overall, the risks posed by storms to buildings can cause not only immediate physical damage, but also long-term economic and social consequences that negatively affect residents’ quality of life.