wind load calculation for high rise building 2

[lm48]

I am in a dispute with local building department in regards of wind load calculation for high-rise buildings. In this case the building footprint is including balconies almost all around the building. Each condo unit will have a large balcony. All corners of the building are wrap around by balcony. All balconies are under the main building roof. For wind load calculation purpose are the windows and sliding glass doors located inside of the balcony in a corner zone even if there are not on 10% of the foot print/ roof of the building corner?
Thank you

 

[JedClampett]

It sounds like at least some of your balconies are in the corner, so I'd use the corner wind pressures for all the glass. I've heard of too much glass popping out of high rises to not be conservative.

 

[msquared48]

I agree with Jed. Conservative in dealing with wind is good, especially in Florida.

And make sure the balconies are parabolically curved on the bottom so they can act like an airfoil and help hold the building down.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering

http://mmcengineering.tripod.com

 

[JedClampett]

In addition to what Mike said, this sounds suspiciously like a condo project. And if it is, they attract litigation like flies to honey (or something else).
My point is to be extra cautious with this kind of detail. Any kind of water leaking or glass breakage will end up in court. And the plaintiff will be able to get any number of experts that will testify that this is in a corner zone.

 

[MiketheEngineer]

FYI - My insurance supplier STRONGLY suggests I stay away from any condo work - or they might double my rate - AND so I have done that.

 

[Ron]

Balconies are like overhangs...wind gets really screwy around those details. Agree with others....use the corner condition. I design in high wind areas and that's the approach I would take.

 

[lm48]

Thank you all for helping me with this project
I will be conservative, The windows/ doors replacement is one unit at the time.