Abstract: To explore the force mechanism and failure mode of short-edge roof joints, three small scale roof joint specimens with different edges and shapes of slotted holes were subjected to cycle loading. The failure mode, hysteresis curve and upper stirrup strain of the concrete column are summarized. The test results show that the use of the recommended concrete edge distance by the code for shear anchors cannot avoid the damage to the concrete edge of the roof joint. However, the upper layer stirrup of the concrete column has an obvious restraining effect on the concrete edge. The long-hole steel plate with a reasonable length can effectively delay or even prevent the occurrence of the concrete edge damage.