Our interpretations of the many codes and standards in our engineering industry
Partially Enclosed Structures Explained Understanding whether a building is partially enclosed is a critical step in wind design. This classification determines the internal pressure coefficients (GCpi) used in ASCE 7 and directly affects the loads applied to components such as windows, doors, roofs, and wall systems. Definition(ASCE 7-16 / FBC Reference) A structure is considered …
Understanding The ‘Effective Opening Area’ For Wind Pressure Design The theory goes that Mother Nature cannot blow her fury at the maximum force at all areas at the same time… Therefore, the larger the opening, the lesser that opening will all receive the full force of a windstorm at the same time. ASCE-7 contains provisions …
While the 1/3 stress increase is all but a memory, this article explains its history & origin. The one-third stress increase has a long history of use in Allowable Stress Design (ASD). It is most commonly used to account for the improbability of two transient loads concurrently acting at their maximum lifetime values– for example, …
The One-Third (1/3) Stress Increase: Where Is It Now? Read More »
First, What is a Notice To Owner (NTO)? This notice alerts a homeowner in Florida that someone has or will provide improvements to their property, either by furnishing services or materials. It puts the owner on legal notice that they now have a responsibility to make certain that that person gets paid, if not, that …
Florida Engineers Do Not Have To File A Notice To Owner To Lien A Property Read More »
Regarding ASCE 7-16 & the 2020 Florida Building Code (FBC) Also Applies for ASCE 7-22 & 2023 Florida Building Code (8th Edition) YES. Section 1609.1.1 and Chapter 35 of the 2020 FBC refer to ASCE 7-16 as the governing code for loading requirements on most rooftop structures*. *Section 1609.5 of the 2020 FBC lays …
What’s The Difference Between ASD & LRFD Design? Put in layman’s terms, think of a wood plank designed to stretch between two supports. You’re going to walk across the piece of wood. The person that designed that plank needed to figure out if it will hold you. They had two options when designing: 1) Reduce …
