Assessment of ASCE 7-10 Standard Methods for Determining Wind Loads

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to discuss issues associated with ASCE 7-10 standard methods for determining wind loads on buildings and other structures that warrant comment, correction, or improvement. The assessment is intended to serve as a resource in the development of a new version of the ASCE 7 standard and to stimulate a wider participation in that development by the structural engineering community. Issues discussed in the paper include: wind speeds in nonhurricane regions; alternative analytical methods for determining wind loads and wind effects on main wind force resisting systems and components and/or cladding; aerodynamic pressure coefficients; pressures on rooftop equipment; component and cladding pressures on arched roofs; and the wind tunnel procedure. It is noted that the ASCE 49 standard essentially covers wind tunnel testing, rather than the wind tunnel procedure, of which wind tunnel testing is only a part.