Design Principles, Advantages and Disadvantages of Cable Roof Structures

Cables have been widely used in bridges since ancient times. The use of cables on building roofs is more recent. Although cable roof structures are interesting in many respects, they have not been widely constructed. One of the reasons for this is that it is not well known by architects and engineers. Cable roof structures have different load-bearing principles and unique design principles than traditional roof structures made of masonry units, reinforced concrete or steel. In this study, these design principles are explained at a general level and by giving example applications. The study is limited to cable roof structures where cables are used to create and carry roof surfaces. Then, the advantages and disadvantages of cable roof structures are discussed. It has been concluded that cable roof structures are a good structural option because their advantages are more numerous and valuable than their disadvantages and can offer innovative solutions in creating free architectural design opportunities with impressive forms. It is thought that cable roof structures, which attracted the attention of architects and engineers in the 20th and 21st centuries, will find greater recognition and application in the future.