Wind exposure category in mountains

[McSEpllc]

Hi Everyone,

Wind exposure categories per ASCE do not directly address mountains. I am working on a residential project on a mountain with a slope of 42 degrees. The mountain is wooded.

Surface roughness B: ...wooded areas...
Surface roughness D: ...unobstructed areas...

What would you use?

Thanks!



Eric McDonald, PE
McDonald Structural Engineering, PLLC

 

[Ron]

You must use the more stringent requirement if it is an interpretive issue. Check with the local building department....they might have some guidelines.

 

[McSEpllc]

Thanks Ron - that is what I have been going with.

Eric McDonald, PE
McDonald Structural Engineering, PLLC

 

[IceNine]

When designing a house on a 42 degree mountain slope, I'd not lose sleep over using a more conservative wind load...

 

[MiketheEngineer]

H&** - I am worried about the driveway or walkway down to the house..

 

[csd72]

You will probably find that this is a special wind region.