November 5, 2026
Key Points
- UL Solutions’ high-wind testing evaluates how products and systems perform under severe wind conditions.
- Early testing can identify weaknesses before products reach the market.
- Green roof testing assesses wind resistance under CSA A123.24, the Standard Test Method for Wind Resistance of Vegetated Roof Assemblies.
In the United States, 185 strong tornadoes rated EF2 or higher occurred in 2025, the highest number since 2011, according to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center. High winds can cause significant damage even when they are not associated with a tornado or hurricane.
Against this backdrop, UL Solutions has expanded its high-wind testing services for roofs and building materials in North America, including specialized testing for green roof systems. By recreating severe wind conditions in a controlled environment, the services provide data that manufacturers, builders, engineers and architects can use to evaluate performance, refine designs and address applicable requirements before products and systems reach the market.
What is high-wind testing?
High-wind testing evaluates the durability and performance of products and systems under severe wind conditions. Physical testing can help validate simulated models and provide data that customers can use to address applicable requirements.
Testing takes place in a controlled setting that recreates severe wind conditions. This allows engineers to measure how products and systems perform under pressure.
Why is testing products early in development important?
Testing during product development can reveal vulnerabilities before products reach the market. Identifying those weaknesses early can help customers refine designs and reduce costly redesign work.
Who can benefit from high-wind testing?
UL Solutions’ services can benefit manufacturers, builders, engineers and architects seeking to evaluate products and systems under severe wind conditions. Independent testing can provide data to support product refinement, compliance efforts and performance claims. Testing can also help companies reduce the risk of compliance gaps that could affect market access.
What is a green roof?
A green roof, also known as a vegetated roof, incorporates plants and growing material into a roof assembly. Green roofs can help insulate buildings, manage rainwater and support sustainability goals.
How can high winds affect a green roof?
The long-term performance of a green roof depends partly on its ability to withstand extreme weather. Specialized testing evaluates how a vegetated roof assembly performs under severe wind conditions. The resulting data can help developers, architects and property owners assess a system’s safety, durability and overall performance before installation.
What standard applies to the green roof testing?
UL Solutions tests vegetated roof assemblies to CSA A123.24, the Standard Test Method for Wind Resistance of Vegetated Roof Assemblies. The company worked with the National Research Council of Canada and industry stakeholders to help develop this standard. During testing, fans can reach speeds of up to 180 mph, similar to the wind speeds in a Category 5 hurricane.
Testing to CSA A123.24 can help stakeholders evaluate wind resistance and assess a green roof system’s durability and performance before installation.
Where can I learn more?
Additional information about high-wind and green roof testing is available in the Nov. 5 press release.
More details about testing products and demonstrating compliance are available on the High Wind Testing service page at UL.com.
A recent NBC News segment offered a firsthand look at windstorm testing during a visit to a UL Solutions testing facility in Northbrook, Illinois.