Roofing Industry Committee On Weather Issues Inc.

The Roofing Industry Committee On Weather Issues Inc. (RICOWI) is a prominent nonprofit organization established in 1990, dedicated to enhancing the performance and durability of roofing systems in response to severe weather challenges. With its roots in addressing technical issues related to wind damage, RICOWI has expanded its focus to cover a broader range of weather-related challenges faced by the roofing industry.

History and Evolution

Initially formed as the Roofing Industry Committee on Wind Issues, Inc., the organization was created to identify and address key technical issues leading to roofing failures under wind conditions. Foundational topics included dynamic testing of roofing systems, the validity of sample sizes in testing, and the necessity of standardized procedures for various roofing systems.

In 1996, RICOWI formalized its structure as a nonprofit corporation, reinforcing its commitment to research and education specifically concerning wind issues. Recognizing the growing need for comprehensive research in other weather-related areas, the organization rebranded in 1999, changing its name to incorporate "Weather" to better reflect its expanded mission, including hail resilience and energy efficiency.

Research Programs and Initiatives

Over the years, RICOWI has developed significant investigative programs, including:

• Wind Investigation Program (WIP): Aimed at evaluating roofing performance in high wind events.

• Hail Investigation Program (HIP): Focused on assessing the impacts of hailstorms on roofing assemblies.

These programs involve meticulous field assessments post-catastrophic weather events, providing unbiased data that helps roofing professionals and stakeholders understand damage mechanisms and improve overall designs. The insights gained from these investigations contribute to minimizing waste from reroofing and reducing insurance claims, ultimately benefiting the public financially.

Membership and Community Engagement

RICOWI boasts a diverse membership that includes 14 Sponsor Members and 65 Affiliate Members, comprising industry associations, engineers, architects, and consultants from the U.S. and Canada. Membership offers individuals and organizations access to unique roofing industry initiatives, collaboration opportunities, and participation in investigative programs focused on hail and hurricane impacts.

Regular seminars are held biannually, where industry experts discuss developments, share findings, and conduct tours of relevant testing facilities. These events foster knowledge exchange and encourage collaborative future research.

Contributions and Impact

For over three decades, RICOWI has made significant strides in improving the roofing industry through empirical analyses and data-driven insights. The organization's research and educational resources help inform best practices in roof design and installation, influencing how products are manufactured and systems are implemented across North America.

RICOWI actively disseminates its research findings and educational materials through various platforms, ensuring that roofing professionals are equipped with the necessary knowledge to design resilient roofing systems that can withstand severe weather conditions.

Through its commitment to research excellence and collaboration, RICOWI continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of the roofing industry, making significant contributions to safety and sustainability in building practices.