What is wind uplift?
When air currents pass over a flat surface they create pockets of low air pressure. Because the air pressure underneath the surface is higher, the surface is pushed upwards towards the lower pressure area. This is the same principle that allows aircraft wings to generate lift.
On a roof deck, where the deck surface is loose-laid into a supporting frame, this can result in the surface lifting from the frame and becoming unstable or damaged. In more extreme conditions, surface components can cause damage to surrounding structures and even injury to people.
How Raaft are improving wind uplift resistance
Uplift-resistant porcelain decking and tiles
Raaft porcelain decking and tile products combine premium porcelain manufacturing with design-led finishes. Porcelain is highly durable, anti-slip, and resistant to scratching, staining, and frost damage. As a Class A1 fire-rated product, it also complies with the UK Building (Amendment) Regulations 2018.
Farrino Porcelain Decking is available in five woodgrain finishes in a long plank format that replicates the appearance of timber decking.
Atria+ wind-uplift tiles are based on the Atria porcelain tile range and are available in wood, stone, concrete, and terrazzo finishes in multiple sizes to create uniform or random patterns.
Anti-uplift clips
Farrino and Atria+ tiles include a discreet groove cut into the tile edge. When used with the Raaft Terrace System, stainless steel or Nylon 12 RP anti-uplift clips fit into this groove and prevent uplift in typical UK wind conditions.
Proven wind uplift resistance
Wind uplift-resistant products must meet BS EN 1991-1-4:2005 + A1:2010 (Eurocode 1). Raaft tiles and clips were independently tested by BRE Group in accordance with the principles of BS 14437:2004.
Tests were conducted on 600 × 600 mm, 20 mm thick Atria+ porcelain tiles fixed with two clips per tile to Raaft aluminium joists. Testing applied an uplift pressure of 4536 N/m², with products tested to destruction and no safety factors applied.
Results:
The clip-and-groove system is also used with Terrafina composite wood-polymer decking, a Class B fire-rated alternative to timber decking.
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