| This study presents a method to estimate the uplift loads on low rise buildings constructed with shear walls and flat roofs supported by joists. The method is based on a database analysis of twelve buildings tested in the wind tunnel and accounts for suburban exposures and effects of adjacent open fields. The results were compared to the National Building Code of Canada 1990, and a structural zoning system and local exposure factors were derived for prediction of loads on similar structures. A separate study of a uniform building array demonstrated the effect that an open field in the array had on wind velocity and wind loads on one building in the array. It was discovered that small open fields can produce loads on portions of the roof of the building that approach the open country terrain loads upon which most building codes are based. Database of all hotwire, and pressure results included. |
