Our interpretations of the many codes and standards in our engineering industry
Understanding Wall Zones 4 & 5 Wind speed converts to wind pressure using a formula with many variables. There are many wind pressures on a building to one given wind speed. Zones 4 & 5 define two of those pressures on wall zones for buildings as described below. Key Terms Used In This Article About …
Per ASCE 7, the Mean Roof Height (h) is defined as the average of the roof eave height and the height to the highest point on the roof surface, except that, for roof angles of less than or equal to 10°, the mean roof height is permitted to be taken as the roof eave height. Visually, AAMA TIR …
Size Limitations For Impact Rated Products A Frequent question is what are the span, height, pressure, and installation limitations for large & small missile impact products. The following takes into consideration the Florida Building Code 8th Edition (2023) limitations for designing & installing operable and non-operable windows/glass doors & impact protection devices. This also applies …
What are The Span Limitations of Large Missile Impact Doors – Windows – Shutters? Read More »
ASTM 1996-17 Regarding Glass Substitution Section A1.8 states: “A1.8.1.1 The impact resisting lite (monolithic or laminated) of an insulating glass unit shall be composed of the same glass type and treatment with equal thickness or thicknesses of glass, and thicker or equal interlayer of the same manufacturer and type as originally tested and approved. Section …
Requirements of Substituting Glass Panels In Insulating Glass Systems Read More »
ASTM 1996-17 Regarding Insulated Glass Spacers. This 2017 standard added section A1.9.2 stating tested air spacers making up the insulated laminated unit can be substituted with other spacers. “A1.9.2 If the conditions in A1.8.1.3 are met, a change in spacer type, shape, or dimension is allowed automatically.” Section A1.8 states: “A1.8.1.3 Substitutions for insulating glass …
Requirements of Substituting Insulated Glass Spacers in Glazed Products Read More »
Overview of Missile Impact Levels As adopted in the 2023 Florida Building Code and the 2021 International Building Code, ASTM E1996-17 defines how exterior glazing systems (windows, doors, curtain walls) for habitable structures should resist windborne debris during hurricanes. The Five Missile Impact Levels Level A — Small Missile Impact A 2 g steel ball …
Understanding Missile Level E Requirements in Florida When it comes to hurricane protection, not all impact ratings are created equal. Missile Level E, defined under ASTM E1996, represents the highest standard for windows, doors, and protective systems facing windborne debris. Unlike Level D, Level E is designed to withstand a 9-lb 2×4 fired at 80 ft/s, …
What are the requirements for using ASTM Missile Level E in Florida and the US? Read More »
From ASCE 7 (ASCE 7-22,16, 10 & previous standards): The “Least Horizontal Dimension” can be taken as the shortest possible distance that can be taken between two parallel lines that fully encompass the building The Least Horizontal Dimension is further demonstrated as follows: Where ‘B’ is the Least Horizontal Dimension. For further reference, see our …
ASCE 7 Least Horizontal Dimension – Minimum Building Width Read More »
Welded Aluminum Railings: Structural Risks, Code Requirements, and Design Considerations Welded aluminum railings are commonly used in residential, commercial, and outdoor applications due to their durability, corrosion resistance, and clean architectural appearance. However, from an engineering standpoint, welding aluminum—especially heat-treated alloys such as 6061-T6 or 6063-T6—introduces critical structural considerations that must be properly addressed to …
Loss of Capacity Due To Welded Aluminum In Railings – Signs – Structures Read More »
Per definition by ASCE 7-22, ASCE 7-16 & ASCE 7-10, Section 26.2 is defined as: BASIC WIND SPEED (V): Three-second gust speed at 33ft above the ground in Exposure C (see Exposure Categories) as determined in accordance with ASCE-7 Section 26.5.1. The wind shall be assumed to come from any horizontal direction. The basic …
The directionality factor (Kd) used in the ASCE 7 wind load provisions for components and cladding is a load reduction factor intended to take into account the less than 100% probability that the design event wind direction aligns with the worst case building aerodynamics. Per ASCE 7-22/16,Section 26.6, the Directionality Factor Kd is defined …
A canopy is an overhead structure that offers protection from weather elements like rain, snow, and sunlight. Canopies can come in various types and configurations, whether attached to an existing building or standing independently on their own supports. With materials ranging from steel and concrete to aluminum, wood, or fabric, the design possibilities are extensive. …
Understanding Canopies: Design and Load Considerations Read More »
First, it needs to be said that there is a complicated formula that converts wind velocity to wind pressure. Many wind pressure values can exist from a single wind velocity which vary based on roof height, topography, terrain, even code version, and more. The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is a 1 to 5 rating based …
Glass Railings – The Next Big Thing Aesthetically pleasing, clean and one of the biggest architectural trends, the glass railing is fast gaining popularity as a go-to safeguard barrier for modern construction. Using glass for railings is not only a widely used structural component for safeguard applications, but one with more variables and configurations that …
Sunrooms across the US are categorized into 5 categories. AAMA published these in their AAMA/NPEA/NSA 2100-12 publication which made its way into the Florida & International Building Codes. FBC (17, 20) lists this in Chapter 20 section 2002.6 directly siting the AAMA/NPEA/NSA 2100 spec. IBC 2015/2018 References AAMA 2100 in IRC Chapter 44 Please refer …
This is provided to inform clients of the dissimilar metal protection requirements of the 2015 Aluminum Design Manual, Chapter M – Section M.7 Structures of the alloys covered by the Aluminum Design Manual are not ordinarily painted. Surfaces shall be painted where: 2014-T6 alloys are exposed to corrosive environments. Aluminum alloy parts are in contact …
How to Avoid Contact With Aluminum & Dissimilar Metals Read More »
