Earthquake Resistant Measures in Sloping Roof
Earthquake Resistant Measures in Sloping Roof
roofs in seismic regions, referencing relevant Indian Standards (IS Codes). Although the
context is Nepal, Indian Standards often serve as authoritative guidelines for seismic design in
South Asia and can be adapted with local modifications.
1. Relevant IS Codes
1. IS 1893 (Part 1): 2016 – Criteria for Earthquake Resistant Design of Structures
o Provides the general provisions and seismic zonation for India (and can be
referred to by adjoining countries).
o Covers overall design seismic force, load combinations, and structural behavior
factors.
2. IS 4326: 2013 – Earthquake Resistant Design and Construction of Buildings – Code of
Practice
o Gives detailed recommendations for improving the earthquake resistance of
buildings constructed with various materials (masonry, timber, etc.).
o Emphasizes provisions such as seismic bands, anchorage, bracing, and detailing.
3. IS 13828: 1993 – Improving Earthquake Resistance of Low Strength Masonry Buildings
o Focuses on masonry structures of low strength (like stone, earthen, or loosely
mortared masonry), common in rural/hilly areas.
4. IS 13920: 2016 – Ductile Detailing of Reinforced Concrete Structures Subjected to
Seismic Forces
o Covers ductile detailing for RCC frames, beams, columns, and shear walls to
ensure adequate ductility during earthquakes.
5. IS 13827: 1993 – Improving Earthquake Resistance of Earthen Buildings
o Particularly relevant if earthen or adobe construction is used in remote or hilly
parts of Nepal.
6. IS 883: 2016 – Design of Structural Timber in Buildings – Code of Practice
o Useful for timber trusses/rafters and connections in pitched roof systems.
Mass Reduction:
o Seismic force is proportional to mass. Using lighter roofing (e.g., CGI sheets,
fiber-cement boards, or light tiled roofs) reduces inertial forces.
o Heavier materials like thick stone/slate roofing should have extra seismic
detailing.
Standards Reference:
o IS 4326 recommends minimizing mass at higher levels (like the roof) to reduce
overturning moments during earthquakes.
Timber Trusses:
o If using timber as per IS 883, ensure correct sizing and grading of timber.
o Provide diagonal bracings within the truss system to improve in-plane rigidity.
o Use corrosion-resistant nails, screws, or bolted connections; ensure proper
washers and edge distances.
Steel Trusses:
o Must conform to IS 800 (general steel design) and be checked for seismic forces
per IS 1893.
o Secure bracing between truss members; use bolted or welded joints with adequate
connection detailing.
Roof Band:
o IS 4326 recommends a continuous reinforced concrete band (often called a ring
beam) at the top of masonry walls for transferring roof loads and tying all walls
together.
o This acts as a rigid diaphragm boundary where rafters/trusses are anchored.
Anchorage Details:
o Use metal straps or anchor bolts to connect rafters/trusses to the roof band or top
plate.
o Ensure that the anchoring detail can handle uplift and lateral forces (per IS 4326,
Section on roof-to-wall connections).
Overhang Limits:
o Large overhangs can be vulnerable to shaking. IS 4326 suggests limiting eave
projections and providing ties or braces if overhangs are unavoidable.
o Overhangs should generally be restricted to around 0.6–0.9 m (as a rule of thumb)
unless specifically designed.
Roof Pitch:
o Moderately steep slopes (25°–35°) often help with rain and snow shedding in
hilly regions.
o Extremely steep roofs can increase wind uplift and require additional bracing.
8. Key Takeaways
1. Follow Seismic Zone Requirements (IS 1893)
o Determine the seismic zone applicable to your region. (For many parts of Nepal
adjacent to India’s Zone IV/V areas, design must be as per the highest zone
classification.)
2. Incorporate Seismic Bands and Anchors (IS 4326 & IS 13828)
o Plinth, lintel, and roof bands are crucial in masonry buildings.
o Anchor pitched roof elements securely to prevent separation during earthquakes.
3. Use Lightweight Roofs and Adequate Bracing
o Lighter roofs reduce inertia forces; bracing ensures lateral stability.
4. Ensure Good Construction Practices and Quality Materials
o Proper supervision, correct rebar detailing, and seasoned timber or quality steel
connections are essential.