ASCE 7-02 Wind Load Enclosure Type Opinion
ASCE 7-02 Wind Load Enclosure Type Opinion
(OP)
In working out wind loads based on ASCE 7-02, I am trying to determine what defines "Partially Enclosed" per the code.
I understand the formulas and guidelines in the code, but are overhead doors considered openings when they would generally not be left open? Also, what about windows and glazed curtainwall?
Most work is in Connecticut and generally in the 80-95 mph wind zones, primarily not directly on the coast but in the center of the state, which of course is an ocean soundfront state.
Do the doors and windows count in the enclosed/partially enclosed consideration, or is that about permanant openings?
I understand the formulas and guidelines in the code, but are overhead doors considered openings when they would generally not be left open? Also, what about windows and glazed curtainwall?
Most work is in Connecticut and generally in the 80-95 mph wind zones, primarily not directly on the coast but in the center of the state, which of course is an ocean soundfront state.
Do the doors and windows count in the enclosed/partially enclosed consideration, or is that about permanant openings?






RE: ASCE 7-02 Wind Load Enclosure Type Opinion
I believe most houses are designed as partially enclosed, although I would always design a garage door as an opening. Small openings have much lesser effect than large openings.
Coastal Connecticut is deemed as a hurricane prone region and therefore there is a clause in the code that specifies that all glass openings are to be impact resistant or treated as openings (1609.4 in the CT code). Away from the coast, I dont think this applies.
RE: ASCE 7-02 Wind Load Enclosure Type Opinion
RE: ASCE 7-02 Wind Load Enclosure Type Opinion
RE: ASCE 7-02 Wind Load Enclosure Type Opinion
Having done some damage assessment for wind storms, I have seen that you will always get to "partially enclosed" before you get "open" due to failures. Three examples from Hurricane Charlie (out of many): 1) a commercial building of moderate size had one overhead door fail, leading to the failure of the entire standing seam roof. 2) A small warehouse had an overhead door fail which resulted in rupture of fiberglass skylight panels in the roof and failure of the overhead door on the opposite side (one blown in, the other blown completely out.) 3)A glass storefront on a small strip center buckled at mid height (where the brick veneer terminated) allowing the internal pressure to cause failure of corrugated roof panels.
RE: ASCE 7-02 Wind Load Enclosure Type Opinion
I was leaning that way myself.
RE: ASCE 7-02 Wind Load Enclosure Type Opinion
I took a look at both enclosed and partially enclosed numbers for a building, and the enclosed appears to give larger overall (main system) lateral wind loading than partially open. I am thinking it prudent to use the "closed door" numbers which appear to control for the main lateral load resisting system.
The partially open gives higher component loadings though, so it looks like using both conditions is in order.
RE: ASCE 7-02 Wind Load Enclosure Type Opinion
RE: ASCE 7-02 Wind Load Enclosure Type Opinion