The 2006 ammendments to the Florida Building Code 2004 have recently changed the definition of wind exposure C to match the definition as listed in the IBC code. I have had many interpretations of this definition and have not had one agree with the other. I am hoping to get some feedback from other engineers who have been working with this definition in the IBC.
The definition reads: "Exposure C. Open terrain with scattered obstructions, including ... ... extending more than 1500 feet from the building site in any quadrant."
The definition then goes on to say "This exposure shall also apply to any building located within exposure B type terrain where the building is directly adjacent to open areas of exposure C type terrain in any quadrant for a distance of more than 600 feet." --This is the part that is getting me. -
Does this mean that an exposure C wind design (which is 1500 feet or wider) must be extended 600 feet into an adjacent exposure B design?
or
Does this mean that the open area (C terrain) only needs to be 600 feet wide next to a building in B terrain to design the building as exposure C? - this seems to contradict the first definition of 1500 feet for exposure C
Any incite into the definition would be greatly appreciated.
The definition reads: "Exposure C. Open terrain with scattered obstructions, including ... ... extending more than 1500 feet from the building site in any quadrant."
The definition then goes on to say "This exposure shall also apply to any building located within exposure B type terrain where the building is directly adjacent to open areas of exposure C type terrain in any quadrant for a distance of more than 600 feet." --This is the part that is getting me. -
Does this mean that an exposure C wind design (which is 1500 feet or wider) must be extended 600 feet into an adjacent exposure B design?
or
Does this mean that the open area (C terrain) only needs to be 600 feet wide next to a building in B terrain to design the building as exposure C? - this seems to contradict the first definition of 1500 feet for exposure C
Any incite into the definition would be greatly appreciated.