Category: Articles

The Art and Science of Collaborative Construction Consulting – June 2024

THE ART AND SCIENCE OF COLLABORATIVE CONSTRUCTION CONSULTING

By Brian Segedin, Senior Construction Consultant

I believe I can safely speak for all construction consultants when I say report writing is the most enjoyable part of being a Construction Consultant.  The effortless speed at which we type, skillfully using our ten human digits, makes writing impactful reports almost instinctive.  Words naturally flow from us, artfully describing the sequence of damaging events and laying out multi-phase repair concepts with flawless clarity.  Our writing stands alone, hardly needing the support of photographs or drawings.  But, of course, we have photos – lots of them.  We only include a select few in our reports because sorting, captioning and keeping track of them is tedious, and too many visuals can distract from our perfected prose. The unseen images? They are compressed and hidden on expensive hard drives.  Who would ever dare meddle with this beloved process?

Haag will.

Development level visualization of exterior finish combinations. The data can be symbolized with various colors, shapes, and overlays to highlight varying attribute information between each unit.

The business units of Haag have a long and rich history of innovating methods, procedures, and tools to turn complex and ambiguous situations into manageable and quantifiable solutions over the past one hundred years.  Haag Construction Consulting is supported by the vast knowledge and experience of our Forensic Engineers, Research and Testing, Forensic Meteorologists, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Specialists, 3D Scanning/Modeling and Photogrammetry Specialists, and a myriad of technical professionals.  Haag Construction Consultants, who frequently encounter unique and challenging situations in the field, have quick access to our specialist colleagues, providing a massive toolbox for any scenario. 

Units with a specific combination of exterior finishes
Units with a specific combination of exterior finishes. Users can filter data so that only units that meet the specified criteria appear on the screen.

Three key technologies — Geographic Information Systems (GIS), 3D Scanning/Modeling, and Photogrammetry — are the building blocks of data collection, organization, and presentation capabilities at Haag.  Our teams collaborate with specialists in these areas to develop capabilities within our secure web mapping application, the Haag Geoportal. The GeoPortal collects, organizes, and presents the most accurate information possible in a visually engaging interactive map-based environment.  Consultants and engineers will work independently or side-by-side using a custom mobile app to log field observations, notes, sketches, photos and scans that are geocoded to the coordinates where they were captured.  Information is automatically categorized when captured and stored in real time by location in an organized and accessible shared workspace. Team members at their desks can work with the data and images as their colleagues continue to collect in the field.  When a project goes live on the GeoPortal, clients can have access to all their data with the desired level of granularity.

Linked building elevations, sections and floorplans documenting test results
3D scan generated floorplan overlaid with Infrared scan data
3D Scan point cloud

When responding to a catastrophe, accuracy and timeliness are paramount.  In the coming months, Haag’s clients will have the ability to watch a map populate with markers for their inspected losses, select single addresses or individual buildings in a large development or campus, and instantly understanding of the severity of the situation with a mouse-click.  Litigation clients, for example, will be able to view development-wide maps with symbols depicting building types, finishes, and the status of destructive testing progress and results.  The enhanced Haag GeoPortal is expected to launch to the public in Q4 2024.

The power of a knowledgeable team of construction professionals equipped with a well-developed GIS workspace and mobile collection app cannot be understated.  It is an exciting time to be part of Haag, working with a project team to develop a system that will enhance the way our team communicates findings for decades to come.

3D scan generated elevation documenting invasive testing

Author

Brian segedin, senior construction consultant
 

Brian Segedin is a Senior Construction Consultant with Haag Construction Consulting. Mr. Segedin is an experienced consultant with more than 27 years in the construction industry. He is based in Pequannock, New Jersey, near the NYC area. Mr. Segedin’s areas of expertise include facility condition assessments, energy efficiency, construction management, and property loss consulting. He most recently conducted facility condition assessments, including 30 Boston Public Schools campuses and 20 sites for First Energy. He was the owner of Atlantic LED Solutions for almost 10 years and worked on lighting projects for medical centers, roadways, warehouses and more. He has experience with property loss recovery and reconstruction projects, including New York Law School, and Hurricane Sandy recovery at One New York Plaza. He spent 13 years as a construction manager overseeing large commercial projects.

Mr. Segedin earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Montclair State University. He is certified as a Qualified Individual – General Contractor Unlimited: South Carolina and Virginia, and an Associate Member of the Illuminating Engineering Society. He is skilled with Fulcrum, ArcGIS, Quickbooks, Xactimate, Timberline, Microsoft Office 360, Adobe Acrobat Pro, and Google Earth Pro.

 

Any opinions expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of Haag Technical Services, Haag Engineering Co., Haag Education, or parent company, Haag Global, Inc.

Brandon Alaniz Promoted to Vice President, Leader of Haag’s Construction Consulting Group

 

Brandon Alaniz Promoted to Vice President, Leader of Haag’s Construction Consulting Group

Dallas, Texas – June 6, 2024 – Haag Global, Inc., the United States’ oldest and most respected forensic consulting firm, is proud to announce the promotion of Brandon Alaniz to Vice President, where he will lead Haag’s construction consulting group.

“Brandon Alaniz is skilled in project management and experienced in leading teams of experts on large-scale and complex projects,” said Justin Kestner, P.E., CEO of Haag Global. “Over the past seven years at Haag, Brandon has successfully overseen demanding construction consulting projects including major litigation files.  He has been trained and mentored by industry veteran and outgoing Construction Consulting leader Larry Dillon to prepare for this leadership role. I am excited to see the imprint Brandon will make on our construction consulting team.”

Brandon has managed or had leading roles in numerous high-profile construction consulting projects, including multiple hurricane and earthquake files in Puerto Rico such as the historic El San Juan hotel. With over 27 years in the construction industry that spans luxury residential to large complex construction projects, he brings a wealth of experience in building construction, repair, and restoration cost assessments for the insurance and legal industries. Brandon is adept at preparing cost estimates and providing litigation support including construction defects and addressing contractor’s standard of care.

As Vice President of Haag Construction Consulting, Brandon will oversee a talented team of consultants, many of whom are likewise very experienced and accomplished. One of Brandon’s priorities will be to expand the division and elevate team members into leadership roles.  Brandon was honored with Haag’s Outstanding Leadership and Mentorship Award and Project of the Year awards. Before joining Haag, Brandon worked as a Commercial Project Superintendent for Manhattan Construction Company and held supervisory roles with Braswell Company, Stephenson Consulting, and David Weekley Homes.

Larry Dillon will continue to play a key role in Haag Construction Consulting as Executive Vice President Emeritus/Litigation & Appraisals Lead. Larry will focus on expanding and enhancing litigation and appraisal services and overseeing staff development in those areas.

“Since joining Haag in 2016, Larry significantly enhanced the quality and reputation of Haag Construction Consulting and grew the division into an industry leader,” said CEO Kestner.  “He hired and mentored talented staff, took on large projects domestically and internationally, and developed Haag into a go-to firm for building and construction consulting services.  Larry has always enjoyed the challenge of litigation and appraisal files, and we are both excited that he will be able to help grow that work at Haag.”

 

About Haag Global, Inc.:

Established in 1924, Haag Global is proud to celebrate 100 years of forensic innovation and consulting excellence. Haag’s comprehensive services include forensic engineering, forensic meteorology, forensic architecture, construction consulting, fire origin and cause, forensic research and testing, education courses and training, and GIS, BIM, and 3D scanning technology solutions. We specialize in serving the legal, insurance, construction, and manufacturing industries, plus private companies. With a century of expertise, Haag has become the national authority in examining, analyzing, and consulting on complex engineering and technical challenges following failure and damage to the built environment. As we move into the next century, Haag is poised to embrace new challenges, adapt to evolving industries, and provide cutting-edge innovations that will shape the future of forensic engineering and consulting.

 

For more information, please contact:

Polly Prado, Director of Corporate Communications, 214.614.6500

HaagGlobal.com

Expert Spotlight: Brandon Alaniz, Vice President, Principal Construction Consultant

Haag 100 Year Anniversary - A century of forensic innovation

Brandon Alaniz: Leading Innovation and Excellence in Construction Consulting

Brandon Alaniz has built an impressive career as a construction consultant, seamlessly blending his extensive construction knowledge, business acumen, and interpersonal skills. His journey in the construction industry spans over 27 years, during which he has cultivated deep expertise in building reconstruction, restoration, and equipment and machinery remediation. As of June 1st, Brandon serves as Vice President and Principal Construction Consultant at Haag’s Construction Consulting division. Brandon is responsible for overseeing all consulting services and ensuring the delivery of high-quality work products, primarily serving the insurance and legal industries.

One of Brandon’s most challenging projects was the El San Juan Hotel in Puerto Rico, which was extensively damaged during Hurricane Maria in 2017. The hotel project presented a myriad of obstacles due to its island location and the large and complex nature of the claim. It tested all facets of his professional skills, from dealing with unique circumstances to navigating potential litigation. Brandon’s ability to meticulously gather and analyze information proved crucial in overcoming hurdles and highlights his capacity to manage even the most demanding assignments.

Brandon Alaniz - Vice President Expert Spotlight

Brandon’s approach to problem-solving is grounded in simplicity. He tackles complex issues by breaking them down into manageable steps, allowing him to steadily progress toward a solution. This methodical approach was particularly evident in his work on the Puerto Rico litigation claims and the Dallas Independent School District tornado damage in 2019. He introduced new scoping methods that utilized an expanded use of technology, efficiently collecting, transferring and managing data. By integrating this technology company-wide, Brandon has enhanced the efficiency and accuracy of documenting losses, providing clients with superior outcomes.

Team collaboration and effective communication are cornerstones of Brandon’s leadership style. He emphasizes the importance of teamwork in delivering timely and high-quality results. By fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and leveraging the diverse expertise within his team, Brandon ensures that projects are completed efficiently, regardless of their scale.

Throughout his career, Brandon has achieved numerous milestones. He takes pride in his journey from construction production to his current leadership role. A pivotal moment in his career was joining Haag, a company with a storied history in forensic engineering and construction consulting. Brandon was recognized with Haag’s Leadership and Mentorship awards two years in a row and was honored with the Project of the Year award several times as well, a testament to Brandon’s dedication and expertise.

Brandon’s advice for aspiring professionals is to leverage the knowledge of those around them and technology, which can set them apart in the industry. He also emphasizes the importance of time management and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Outside of work, Brandon coaches AAU competitive basketball teams, participates in his children’s soccer activities, and enjoys golfing and exploring nature with his family.

Looking ahead, Brandon is excited about the future of Haag Construction Consulting. He is committed to attracting and nurturing talent within his team, and continuing the significant growth Haag has experienced over the past eight years. His vision and dedication position him as a standout leader in construction consulting.

Laminated Shingle Repair – May 2024

Can 36-inch laminated asphalt shingles be repaired with metric-sized laminated asphalt shingles?

By Steven R. Smith, P.E., Director of Research & Testing, Forensic Engineer

Laminated shingles today are manufactured in “metric” sizes, which nominally measure one meter in length and about 1/3 meter in width. Long ago, several roofing manufacturers made laminated shingles the same size as their three-tab varieties, which were, and continue to measure 36 inches in length and 12 inches in width. Many of the older, 36-inch-long shingles are still in service today, but can a reliable roof repair be made to an old roof using larger, modern day laminated shingles?

This has become a common question in today’s roofing industry because of possible issues regarding mismatched nailing patterns, misalignments, aesthetic issues, exposed nails and unsightly overlaps.  These questions have further raised concerns that making repairs with larger shingles could cause roof leaks or diminish the wind resistance of the roof.

Haag Research & Testing, a division of Haag Global, delved into this topic by purchasing bundles of discontinued, 36-inch-long shingles and tested repair methods for their viability. We evaluated the process of trimming a larger metric shingle down to size for use in making repairs to the smaller, 36-inch-long shingles. Our procedures evaluated nailing patterns, overlaps, alignments, and even the wind resistance of repairs using our state of the art wind generator. 

Our procedures, technical considerations, test methods, and results are presented in a new technical publication titled “Repairing an Existing 36-inch Laminated Asphalt Shingle with Metric-Sized Laminated Asphalt Shingles”. The paper discusses the technical considerations regarding fastener placement, the use of shingle adhesive, effects of ambient temperatures during roof installation, and even an unexpected consequence when old, but otherwise new shingles (still in their bundle packaging) are installed.  

View Haag Research & Testing’s study, available for purchase here. 
Figure 1: Panel constructed with 36-inch-long shingles to replicate a roof.
Figure 2: Simulating a diagonal row of shingles removed by wind.
Figure 3: Test panel positioned in front of wind generator.
Figure 4: Catastrophic failure of shingles subjected to strong wind. (Note airborne shingles.)
Figure 5: Shingle torn at fasteners during wind testing.

Author

STEVE SMITH, P.E., DIRECTOR OF RESEARCH & TESTING, PRINCIPAL ENGINEER

Steven R. Smith is a Forensic Engineer with Haag Engineering Co., and the Director of Research & Testing. Mr. Smith is an experienced forensic engineer who began his career with Haag more than 24 years ago. He spent seven years working as a Senior Lab Technician while earning a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering degree from The University of Texas at Arlington. He has been involved with the lab throughout his career, and has been able to leverage his extensive and practical engineering field experience with research and testing projects.

Mr. Smith’s areas of expertise include accident reconstruction, mechanical equipment evaluations, code and standards compliance, roofing system evaluations, and fires and explosions. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in Arkansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, and Wisconsin. He is a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), and Pi Tau Sigma National Honor Society. Prior to joining Haag, Mr. Smith was a Petty Officer Second Class in the United States Navy. He trained at the Navy Nuclear Power Training Command Center in Orlando Florida and was stationed on the USS Arkansas (CGN-41), where he maintained reactor and steam plant chemistry, performed radiological controls, and operated mechanical equipment in the propulsion plant.

 

Any opinions expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of Haag Technical Services, Haag Engineering Co., Haag Education, or parent company, Haag Global, Inc.

Expert Spotlight: William Ashman, P.E., Forensic Engineer

Haag 100 Year Anniversary - A century of forensic innovation

Engineering Expert Spotlight: William (Bill) Ashman, P.E. - Salt Lake City, Utah

William (Bill) Ashman, P.E., brings a unique blend of passion and expertise to his role as a Forensic Engineer at Haag Global. With a career spanning five years in engineering and consulting, Bill’s journey into this field was sparked by a childhood fascination with architectural sketches and a pivotal physics class in high school. These early influences ignited his interest in engineering, setting him on a path towards becoming a seasoned professional in the field.

When it comes to solving complex engineering problems, Bill subscribes to Kidlin’s Law: “If you write the problem down clearly, then the matter is half solved.” He believes in meticulously documenting the problem at hand, enabling stakeholders to provide feedback and consensus while streamlining the solution process. This pragmatic approach has served him well throughout his career, allowing him to balance budgetary constraints with optimizing effective solutions.

William (Bill) Ashman, PE - Salt Lake City Utah

Effective communication and collaboration are paramount in Bill’s projects, as he understands the importance of timely, transparent communication rooted in reality. By sharing information openly and honestly, Bill facilitates a collaborative environment where problems can be defined clearly, and solutions can be developed efficiently.

One of Bill’s proudest accomplishments in his engineering career was his significant contribution to the design of the Nashville International Airport Arrivals Facility. This project was featured in the Modern Steel Construction October 2022 issue, marking a milestone in his professional journey.

Looking ahead, Bill is eager to expand his range of practice through licensure in adjacent states and aspires to achieve licensure as an “SE” in addition to being a “PE.” His commitment to continuous growth and development reflects his dedication to pushing the boundaries of engineering excellence.

With a solid background in design and forensic engineering, Bill has honed his skills in structural evaluations, wind damage assessment, and moisture intrusion analysis. His expertise extends to bridges, culverts, retaining walls, and sign structures, making him a valuable asset to Haag Global.

Through his meticulous attention to detail, pragmatic problem-solving approach, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Bill Ashman exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional engineer and a notable contributor to our company.

Storm Reports: Where Do They Come From? – April 2024

Storm Reports: Where do they come from (Part 1)

To reconstruct a weather event, a forensic meteorologist searches through numerous databases looking for as much ground truth as possible. One source of ground truth is the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) Storm Events Database which provides the official record for storm reports.

During and after any given weather event, meteorologists at the National Weather Service (NWS) Weather Forecast Offices receive reports of both severe and sub-severe weather from over a dozen different sources (Figure 1). After the weather events, each of the 122 NWS Forecast Offices review the reports before submitting them to the Storm Events Database. This quality control process usually requires 75-90 days after a weather event takes place for the official, published reports to become publicly available.

Figure 1. NWS Weather Forecast Offices receive weather reports from numerous sources during and after severe weather events.

However, the details of a meteorological event can, at times, be painted with information not found in the Storm Events Database. Given the influx of reports from so many sources, it’s very easy for some of these reports to go unnoticed or undocumented by the NWS. Likewise, when there are numerous reports in one area, the NWS may simply take the largest report or consolidate reports into swaths. As such, some weather reports are not included in the official database produced and maintained by the NWS. Therefore, forensic meteorologists often need to search through the available unofficial databases, along with the officially published record when reconstructing a weather event.

Storm reports that are initially received by the NWS Weather Forecast Offices are documented as Preliminary Local Storm Reports (PLSRs). PLSRs are official products from the NWS typically issued in near real-time during a weather event, and most commonly contain severe weather reports, such as hail greater than 1.00-inch, wind greater than 58 mph, and tornadoes, along with the time and location of occurrence. However, there are times that sub-severe weather is noteworthy to the partners of the NWS (e.g. broadcast media and emergency management), so PLSRs are often produced to indicate sub-severe weather reports as well. PLSRs will, at times, contain information such as heavy rainfall amounts, snow amounts, and dense fog, among other minor weather impacts. There are certainly times in the analysis of a weather event that sub-severe weather reports will help reconstruct the details of that event. In the end, the Storm Events Database is typically populated with severe weather reports, while omitting most of the sub-severe reports and minor impacts.  

PLSRs that meet severe weather criteria (1.00-inch hail, 58 mph wind, and/or tornado) become available in the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) Storm Reports database in near real-time. This is useful because there is a 75–90-day lag between the severe weather event and when the storm reports from that event are officially published in the NCEI Storm Events Database. While SPC storm reports are not quality-controlled they offer perhaps the best resource for ground truth information in the time between a severe weather event and the publishing of the official reports in the Storm Events Database.

Other storm report databases contain information provided by members of the public, who are interested in participating in the collection of weather data. Meteorological Phenomena Identification Near the Ground (mPING) was established in 2012 in a joint venture with the University of Oklahoma, the National Severe Storms Laboratory, and Cooperative Institute for Mesoscale Meteorology Studies (now CIWRO).  mPING was developed to allow citizens to upload real-time meteorological information, including hail and wind reports using the GPS capabilities of their smart devices and a downloadable app. Archived mPING data can be viewed using third-party radar software.

The Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow (CoCoRaHS) network was established in 1998 and contains thousands of volunteers nation-wide who submit daily precipitation, rainfall, and snowfall measurements from their places of business or residence. When severe weather moves through their area, volunteers have the capability to submit hail reports and provide comments describing the storms.

These are just a few of the publicly available sources for unofficial storm reports that forensic meteorologists may utilize when analyzing an event. While there is an element of quality control in the process of publishing the information into the Storm Events Database, the omission of reports from PLSRs, SPC Storm Reports, mPING, CoCoRaHS, or any other unofficial database does not necessarily preclude those reports from being useful in the post-event analysis. These reports, combined with sound analysis by an experienced meteorologist can help provide details into events otherwise not made possible by using solely the NCEI Storm Events Database.

In Part 2, we will show an example of how Haag Certified Consulting Meteorologists can use unofficial databases to help paint the details of a complex severe weather event by supplementing the official, published storm reports with information provided by PLSRs, mPING, and CoCoRaHS. 

Author

Jared Leighton
Jared Leighton, CCM, FORENSIC Meteorologist 

Jared Leighton, CCM, is a Forensic Meteorologist with Haag Engineering Co. Based near Kansas City, Jared Leighton has over 16 years of experience in meteorology. He has spent the last decade as Senior Forecaster for NOAA National Weather Service in Kansas City, Missouri, and as a General Forecaster and Meteorological Intern prior to that position.

Mr. Leighton has extensive, comprehensive experience in NWS forecast operations across multiple geographic areas, including frequent supervision of severe and winter weather watch and warning operations. He regularly conducted storm surveys, both solo and as storm survey team lead, including multiple tornadoes in Kansas and Missouri, as well as the severe weather event on September 15, 2010, in which 7.75 inch hail occurred in Wichita, Kansas (the second largest certified hailstone recorded in the US). Mr. Leighton led and participated in several research teams, resulting in five peer-reviewed formal publications as well as presentations at local, regional, and national conferences. He also organized local storm spotter training in coordination with emergency management and led the Storm Ready community preparedness program.

Mr. Leighton earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Atmospheric Science from the University of California Davis. He is an American Meteorological Society Certified Consulting Meteorologist (CCM #783).

 

Any opinions expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of Haag Technical Services, Haag Engineering Co., Haag Education, or parent company, Haag Global, Inc.

Expert Spotlight: Jonathan Goode, Ph.D., P.E., Vice President of Engineering

Haag 100 Year Anniversary - A century of forensic innovation

Jonathan goode: the engineering expert driving innovation at haag global

Jonathan Goode, Ph.D., P.E., Vice President of Engineering and Forensic Engineer at Haag Global, exemplifies excellence in engineering, seamlessly weaving together a tapestry of expertise, experience, and passion that distinguishes him in his field. With a comprehensive educational background encompassing B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees in Agricultural and Civil Engineering from the University of Georgia, the University of Colorado at Boulder, and Colorado State University, Jonathan has laid a formidable foundation for his illustrious career.

Jonathan’s journey into engineering and consulting was sparked by a pivotal moment during Hurricane Opal in 1995, where his intrigue with wind and its impact on structures was piqued. This early fascination has since evolved into a lifelong dedication to understanding and mitigating structural vulnerabilities, a commitment that permeates every aspect of his work.

Jonathan Goode, Ph.D., P.E. - VP of Engineering

Throughout his tenure at Haag Global, Jonathan has showcased his prowess in structural evaluations, damage assessment, and forensic engineering, playing a pivotal role in evaluating and reporting on numerous high-profile cases involving roof collapses, storm damage, and construction defects. His problem-solving approach is grounded in simplicity, breaking down complex issues into manageable pieces and discerning the interactions between them. He recognizes that logic, reasoning and the simple application of engineering sciences can often suffice without need for extensive calculations. This pragmatic mindset underscores his ability to navigate intricate challenges with efficiency and effectiveness. His expertise extends beyond mere technical proficiency, as evidenced by his ability to lead cross-functional teams and foster collaborative relationships both within and outside the organization.

As a leader, Jonathan’s visionary outlook and dedication to mentorship set him apart. His tenure as an Assistant Professor at Oklahoma State University and his role in establishing the Natural Hazards Research Laboratory bear testament to his passion for education and research. He has been published in over a dozen peer-reviewed scientific journals, underscoring his contributions to the advancement of engineering knowledge. At Haag, he continues to inspire and lead by example, earning the trust and respect of his colleagues through his unwavering dedication to excellence.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Jonathan maintains a steadfast commitment to work-life balance, prioritizing family and personal well-being without compromising on his dedication to his craft. His transition from academia to Haag exemplifies his ability to align his career with his passions, ultimately finding fulfillment in a role that allows him to make a meaningful impact in his chosen field.

Looking ahead, Jonathan remains steadfast in his vision for the future of Haag Global, envisioning a company that continues to attract top talent, expand its reach, and solidify its position as a leader in forensic engineering and consulting. With each new project and every new team member, Jonathan sees an opportunity to further the company’s mission and uphold its values, ensuring a legacy of excellence that extends far beyond his tenure. Jonathan is a visionary leader whose passion, expertise, and dedication continue to shape the future of our company and the industry at large.

Jonathan is located in Dallas, Texas. He is a licensed professional engineer in 17 states (AL, AR, CO, FL, GA, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MS, NC, OK, SC, TN, TX and VA). He is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and serves on the Committee on Forensic Practices in the Forensic Engineering Division. 

Haag’s Test Square Method – March 2024 Blog

Haag’s Test Square Method

As we commemorate Haag’s 100th anniversary, we reflect on a century of remarkable and pivotal projects that have defined the legacy of Haag.

One such enduring contribution is Haag’s Test Square Method, a methodology pioneered by Haag engineers since the early 1960s. This method stands as a testament to simplicity, precision, and repeatability in assessing the extent of hail damage on roofs. Its significance lies in the establishment of clear rules and procedures for hail damage assessment, helping to eliminate disagreements among professionals in the field.

The Test Square method has evolved into the standard inspection procedure for determining hail damage worldwide, used by contractors, adjusters, engineers, and various stakeholders, attesting to its universal applicability.

The genesis of this methodology dates back to the 1960s, when assessing hail damage on cedar shingle roofing was a common challenge. With cedar shingle roofs boasting 350-400 individual shingles per square (100 square feet), a comprehensive assessment was a time-consuming task. In response, visionaries such as Wayne Parish, John Stewart, Stoney Kirkpatrick, and others at Haag Engineering deliberated on employing statistical sampling for hail damage assessment.

After experimenting with different sample area sizes, they found that 100 square feet or one roofing square struck the perfect balance—being statistically representative, practical in terms of time, and easily comprehensible in discussions. Recognizing the directional impact of wind-driven hail, a decision was made to conduct a test square on each directional face of the roof.

The methodology made its formal debut in “Hail Damage to Red Cedar Shingles” (American Insurance Association, 1975) and later in Haag’s publication “Hail Damage to Wood Shingle and Shake Roofs: Assessment Criteria” (Haag Engineering Co., 1985). Subsequently, it underwent peer review and was presented as a comprehensive procedure two decades ago at the North American Conference on Roofing Technology in a paper titled “Protocol for Assessment of Hail-Damaged Roofing” (Tim Marshall and Richard Herzog, 1999). Today, the Haag Test Square Method endures as a cornerstone in the realm of hail damage assessment, embodying a legacy that spans decades and continents.

A 10-foot by 10-foot square of roofing.

While initially developed for cedar shingle roofs, the Haag Test Square Method has proven its adaptability to a variety of steep slope roofing systems, including cedar shakes, concrete and clay tiles, as well as asphalt shingles.

Additionally, its applicability extends to assessing hail-caused damage on low slope membrane roof systems.

The method is simple:

  1. Draw out a 10×10 ft. square on each directional roofing slope, avoiding overhanging trees and areas of concentrated foot traffic if possible.
  2. Examine every shingle, shake, or tile within that square closely, including hand-manipulating to check for creases, breaks, soft spots, and bruising.
  3. Record and differentiate the types of marks or physical damage found within that test square. For assessment of hail damage, determine a count of how many roofing units have been hail-damaged in the test square. (For low-slope membrane roofing, the count represents how many hail-caused fractures, punctures, or ruptured areas exist in the test square.)
  4. Calculate the actual roofing area (in squares) that face each direction.
  5. The test square results can then be extrapolated for the entire roof by multiplying the numbered of damaged shingles per square by the roofing squares for each direction, producing an estimate of damaged shingles for the entire roof.

Repair Cost Estimation:

  • Determine the repair cost estimate for the hail-caused damage using a unit repair costs applicable for the roofing material and geographical area through the DURA formula as shown below.
  • Repair Cost = D x U x R x A
    • D: Number of damaged shingles, shakes, or tiles per roofing square
    • U: Unit cost to repair a shingle, shake, or tile 
    • R: Repair Difficulty Factor (1, 1.5, or 2)
    • A: Actual area of the slope (in roofing squares) 

As a comprehensive and adaptable approach, it continues to stand as a cornerstone in the field of hail damage assessment.

References– 1975 Red Book (AIA), 1985 Haag Assessment Criteria, and the 1999 Protocol Paper.

Author

RICHARD HERZOG, FORENSIC ENGINEER

Richard Herzog is a Principal Engineer, Meteorologist, and Minneapolis Office Engineering Manager at Haag Engineering Co. He has been with Haag for over 28 years, and is a licensed Professional Engineer in 14 states. Mr. Herzog is an active member of the National Roofing Contractors Association, the Roof Consultants Institute, the Roofing Industry Council on Weather Issues (RICOWI), Minnesota Society of Professional Engineers, and the Cedar Shake and Shingle Bureau. He earned Bachelors of Sciences degrees in Civil Engineering and Meteorology from Penn State University.

Mr. Herzog’s primary areas of consulting are Roofing Systems, Building Envelope Systems, Evaluation of Wind Damage to Structures, Construction Defect Evaluations, Meteorological Investigations, Development of Hail Analysis Software, and Alternative Dispute Resolution.  He serves as a primary advisor in the creation of many Haag Education seminars and products.

*Richard’s original blog was posted in April 2019. 

 

Any opinions expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of Haag Technical Services, Haag Engineering Co., Haag Education, or parent company, Haag Global, Inc.

Expert Spotlight: Justin Kestner, P.E. – CEO, Principal Engineer

Haag 100 Year Anniversary - A century of forensic innovation

Justin Kestner, P.E., MS, MBA - A Leader in Engineering Excellence

Justin Kestner, President, CEO and Principal Engineer of Haag Global, has built a diverse career rooted in forensic engineering consulting and expert witness services. With over 27 years’ engineering experience overall including 18 years of dedicated service at Haag, Justin has ascended through various roles, starting at Haag as an associate engineer and progressing to his present leadership position 10 years ago. His journey has been characterized by an unwavering commitment to his work, an ever-expanding knowledge base, and a dedication to professional development.

Justin’s expertise lies in structural evaluations, roofing system assessments, geotechnical evaluations, moisture source evaluations, and construction defect evaluations. Beyond his executive role, he actively contributes to Haag’s consulting services, providing expert testimony in cases ranging from alleged roofing product defects to building envelope damage/performance, building collapse, intellectual property, and bridge damage/performance.

Justin Kestner, PE, CEO and Principal Engineer

A notable aspect of Justin’s career is his commitment to knowledge sharing and education. He has played a significant role in teaching continuing education courses for Haag Education, co-developing sinkhole-related seminars, and contributing to the creation of Haag’s Certified Inspector programs for roofing damage assessment, both in residential and commercial settings. Additionally, he has shared his findings and insights at industry conferences, such as the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB) and with student chapters of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE).

Justin recognizes the importance of attending industry conferences as an invaluable source for staying abreast of emerging technologies. He continues to foster the dialogue from these events and other recent trends through Haag’s quarterly Expert Technical Exchanges (ETEs). During these events, outside speakers and Haag’s own experts share their knowledge on a variety of topics that are relevant to the dynamic nature of both engineering practices and the evolving needs of our clients. 

Influenced by Haag’s 60+ years of hail research, Justin has long supported and participated in laboratory wind- and hail-related testing of building envelope materials and other products, such as solar panels. Haag’s testing lab achieved accreditation by IAS and greatly expanded its equipment and capabilities during Justin’s tenure as CEO.  

Justin champions effective communication and team collaboration at Haag Global, especially as it relates to executing large, complex projects. Some notable recent examples of complex projects involving large teams of experts that Justin supported include tornado damage assessments for Dallas Independent School District, litigation support for Hurricane Maria damage assessments of high-rise and multi-family developments in Puerto Rico, and fire damage assessment of the Jamalco bauxite refinery in Jamaica. These projects required seamless collaboration between Haag’s talented structural, mechanical, and electrical engineers, construction consultants, meteorologists, and scanning experts to deliver comprehensive solutions.

There has been a multitude of impactful projects that have helped shape Justin’s career. From the Hoover Dam bypass bridge erection towers collapse to the Champlain Towers South collapse and Hurricane Katrina aftermath, each project has contributed to his growth and expertise. Furthermore, he acknowledges the influence of Haag legends who served as mentors and played pivotal roles in shaping his career trajectory. Since mentorship holds a special place in Justin’s professional ethos, he helped formalize a mentorship program at Haag in 2023. This program highlights the culture of support at Haag and the collaborative spirit that fuels success.

Justin Kestner’s multifaceted expertise, commitment to education, and dedication to mentorship exemplify the qualities that have defined Haag experts for decades. As President and CEO of Haag Global, Justin continues to drive a commitment to quality, integrity, innovation, and employee professional growth, contributing to the overall advancement of the engineering industry.

Expert Spotlight: Tim Marshall, PE – Principal Engineer II

Haag 100 Year Anniversary - A century of forensic innovation

Tim Marshall, PE - A Legend in Weather, Meteorology and Engineering

In the dynamic world of weather, meteorology, and engineering, one name stands out as a true legend—Tim Marshall. With a career spanning over four decades, Tim has become a powerhouse in the field, earning a reputation for his exceptional expertise in roofing systems, building envelope systems, wind/hail damage evaluations, storm surveys, and much more. Currently serving as a Principal Engineer at Haag, Tim’s dedication and passion have made a lasting impact on the industry.

Tim’s journey began with a childhood fascination for studying building damage, paving the way for a remarkable career in engineering and consulting. His primary areas of focus include everything from hurricane and tornado evaluations to construction defect assessments and meteorological investigations. As a testament to his influence, Tim is currently the subchairman on the ASCE Wind Speed Estimation on Tornadoes Committee – the EF Scale, contributing to the industry’s standards in assessing tornado damage.

One of Tim’s standout qualities is his innovative approach to problem-solving. When faced with challenging projects, like the LTV Tower project in 1984, where he had to confront his fear of heights, Tim’s ingenuity came to the fore. Working on a scaffold clamped to a parapet wall several hundred feet above the ground, he and his team devised a solution using wedge anchors to secure the brick veneer to the concrete wall—a testament to his problem-solving prowess.

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Remaining at the forefront of industry trends is crucial, and Tim accomplishes this through active participation in professional organizations and volunteering. His hands-on involvement in the industry is instrumental in shaping standards for assessing tornado damage, directly impacting his work at Haag.

Tim’s commitment to advancing meteorological understanding is evident in his recent participation at the American Meteorological Society (AMS) Annual Conference in Baltimore, MD. There, he presented groundbreaking findings on updating the Enhanced Fujita Scale to more accurately rate degrees of tornado damage. Additionally, his expertise extends to the realm of academia, as he contributed a chapter to a book published by Oxford University Press, focusing on the meticulous assessment of wind damage to residences. A member of the AMS for an impressive 50 years, Tim’s active engagement in such prestigious conferences and academic pursuits underscores his dedication to the continual enhancement of meteorological knowledge and its practical applications.

Throughout his illustrious career, Tim takes pride in accomplishments that extend beyond personal victories. After his 40+ year career, his most valued achievement is bringing in other engineers to Haag, such as Richard Herzog, Carlos Lopez, Christine Alfano, and Zach Wienhoff. Tim’s leadership and mentorship have created a legacy, with kudos extended to his mentors John Stewart, Stoney Kirkpatrick, and Dick Madison—the original three who hired him.

Outside the world of engineering and consulting, Tim finds rejuvenation in storm chasing, volunteering in government-sponsored projects like VORTEX, TWIRL, and ROTATE, and serving on the National Weather Service Quick Response Team. Tim has published more than 100 articles on storms and assessing storm damage and has appeared on dozens of television programs including Discovery, Learning, History Channel, NOVA, and The Oprah Winfrey Show. 

In the ever-evolving field of weather and engineering, Tim Marshall continues to be an inspiration—a visionary who seamlessly integrates expertise, innovation, and leadership, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. We are privileged to have Tim as an invaluable asset to our team for 40 years and as a driving force in advancing the frontiers of weather-related engineering solutions.

Haag Expert Engineer