Opening and Compartmentalization Effects of Internal Pressure in Low-Rise Buildings with Gable and Hip Roofs

Abstract

AbstractThis study examines how design features, such as building envelope openings and compartmentalization, affect the wind pressure in typical low-rise buildings with gable and hip roofs. Wind-induced internal and external pressures were investigated by using a full-scale wind testing facility generically known as Wall of Wind (WOW). The test-building model was built with an optimal size of 2.74 m (9 ft) long, 2.13 m (7 ft) wide, and 2.13 m (7 ft) high. The model consisted of multiple dominant openings (doors with secondary openings and windows), roof ventilation devices (soffit vents, gooseneck roof vent, and roof turbine ventilators), and horizontal and vertical (ceiling and wall) internal assembly compartments. These features, together with a high Reynolds number (∼106) flow test, enabled a realistic assessment of internal pressures due to (1) dominant openings’ size and location and background leakage and (2) compartmentalization. For the study case, the hatch opening in the roof increased the coef...