Wind Load Calculator (Software Requirements per ASCE/SEI 7-05)

Determination of design wind pressure used for wall member design

The Wind Load Calculator determines the design wind pressure for loading wall members on their face normal to the exterior face of the wall. The value is calculated according to ASCE/SEI 7-05 Sec. 6.5.12.4.1 - Components and Cladding for Low Rise Buildings and Buildings with h ≤ 60 ft. The full load is applied laterally to the member for strength design and 70% of this load is used for stiffness design (2009 IBC Table R1604.3, footnote f and 2009 IRC Table R301.7, footnote a).

Three values of the design wind pressure, p are calculated and returned by the Wind Load Calculator:

1. Net suction (outward pressure) at wall corners: Zone 5 in Figure 6-11A. Generally the highest magnitude net wind pressure of the three pressures that are calculated.

2. Net suction (outward pressure) at wall center: Zone 4 in Figure 6-11A. This is the design wind pressure used by the software for individual wall member design.

3. Net pressure (inward): Zones 4 and 5 in Figure 6-11A. Generally the lowest magnitude net wind pressure of the three pressures that are calculated.

Loading standard: ASCE/SEI 7-05 Sec. 6.5.12.4.1 - Components and Cladding for Low Rise Buildings and Buildings with h ≤ 60 ft.

Limitations: Building limitations associated with ASCE/SEI 7-05, Section 6.4.1.2 Components and Cladding.