Wind Loads on Open Structures
Wind Loads on Open Structures
(OP)
If my structure does not meet the design criteria for an open structure or that of a partially enclosed structure am I therefore by definition an enclosed structure? I am designing a simple gable canopy with a 14" eave. The sides of the canopy are open with the exception of the top 3 feet which are cladded. By definition less than 80% of the wall area is open (78.5%) so by a strict reading of the code I must consider this structure to be enclosed. ASCE7-05 defines an enclosed structure as one that does not comply with the definition of open or partially enclosed is to be considered enclosed. It seems pretty open to me!






RE: Wind Loads on Open Structures
RE: Wind Loads on Open Structures
I would run wind loads using 'Free Roofs/Canopies' and check versus 'enclosed'. From there, you can decide what makes most sense.
Remember, Code Provisions are 'recommended minimums'
RE: Wind Loads on Open Structures
Mike McCann
MMC Engineering
Motto: KISS
Motivation: Don't ask
RE: Wind Loads on Open Structures
RE: Wind Loads on Open Structures
If I understand this standard, if the building is considered "open" by definition, then there are no loads applied to vertical sides, loads are only applied to the roof. These load cases are shown in figs 6-18 & 6-19
I am hoping this post generates more responses as I am not fully comfortable with this standard as it applies to these types of structures that seem to be open type structures.
It seems to me that if the building is classified as "enclosed" then the loads from fig 6-10 (if the structure is low rise) have to be applied over the full wall area regardless of whether it is 79% open or 0% open.
RE: Wind Loads on Open Structures