Peer-Reviewed Study Reveals How Strategic Tree Placement Can Reduce Roof Uplift Forces and Improve Building Resilience During Extreme Wind Events
MIAMI — DDA Forensics is proud to announce that Structural Engineer Haitham A. Ibrahim, PhD, PE, has co-authored a peer-reviewed research study published in the Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics, examining how strategically positioned trees can help protect buildings from damaging wind forces.
The study, titled “Urban Trees for Wind Mitigation of Low-Rise Buildings: A Parametric Wind Tunnel Study,” explores how tree height, spacing, foliage, and proximity to buildings influence wind pressures and roof uplift forces during extreme weather events.
The study found that certain tree configurations reduced peak roof uplift forces by as much as 39%. Shorter trees positioned strategically near buildings generally provided more consistent protection. However, certain arrangements and wind directions increased localized wind pressures, highlighting the importance of scientifically informed placement.
Conducted at Florida International University’s (FIU) Natural Hazards Engineering Research Infrastructure (NHERI) Wall of Wind Experimental Facility, the research evaluated 11 different tree configurations to determine their effectiveness in shielding low-rise buildings from wind loads.
“Trees are often viewed primarily as landscaping features, but our research demonstrates that they can also play a meaningful role in how buildings respond to extreme wind events. By better understanding the relationship between vegetation, wind flow and structural performance, we can help inform more effective mitigation strategies and improve the resilience of buildings in hurricane-prone communities,” said Ibrahim.
The findings offer insights into how landscaping can contribute to wind mitigation strategies, particularly in hurricane-prone regions. The research also reinforces the importance of understanding how surrounding environmental conditions influence building performance and potential storm damage.
Ibrahim collaborated with researchers Fouad Elazaka, Omar Metwally, Amal Elawady and Jean-Paul Pinelli on the study. His contributions included research conceptualization, methodology, investigation and manuscript review.
A licensed professional engineer specializing in structural and wind engineering, Ibrahim leads DDA Forensics’ Milestone Inspection and Recertification Division. His research background in wind-induced structural response, hurricane damage and building performance supports the company’s commitment to evidence-based engineering and research backed by science.
“At DDA Forensics, we believe exceptional forensic engineering begins with a strong foundation in science and research. Haitham’s contributions to this study reflect his caliber of expertise and commitment to advancing the industry. Having engineers who actively contribute to scientific research really strengthens the knowledge and technical insight we bring to every inspection,” said Jonathon Diego, Managing Partner, DDA Forensics.
The publication represents another contribution to the growing body of peer-reviewed research authored by DDA Forensics engineers. By combining academic research with practical engineering expertise, DDA Forensics continues to strengthen its ability to provide clear, concise, conclusive findings for the insurance, legal and property management industries.
Read the published research: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0167610526002606.
About DDA Forensics
DDA Forensics specializes in Forensic Engineering, Building Consulting, and Expert Witness services for the insurance and legal industries throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Texas. Our Licensed Forensic Engineers investigate complex property damage claims involving wind, water, fire, structural failures, construction defects, premises liability and other losses to determine cause, origin, and extent of damage. Headquartered in Miami, our Structural Engineering Division provides Milestone & Recertification Inspections, Property Condition Assessments, Developer Turnover Inspections, and Owner Representative services for Florida property owners, property managers, board members, condominium and homeowners associations. With more than 20 years of experience, DDA Forensics provides objective and accurate forensic investigations backed by advanced education, real-world field experience, and research-driven methodology. Our multidisciplinary team delivers clear, concise, conclusive results on every project we undertake. Learn more at www.DDAForensics.com.
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Angela Delmedico
Elev8 Consulting Group
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