Fragility Analysis Methodology for Performance-Based Analysis of Wood-Frame Buildings for Flood

Abstract

This paper resulted from a Structural Engineering Institute of the American Society of Civil Engineers Special Project entitled “The Next Step for ASCE 16: Performance-Based Design of Wood Structures.” In 2005 Hurricane Katrina demonstrated how damaging flood waters can be to residential structures. While life safety of the occupants is the most critical issue for residential buildings the financial (property) loss due to water damage is often extensive and can result in personal financial ruin. This paper presents the methodology including several illustrative examples for the design of wood-frame residential structures for flood. The methodology is based on probabilistic flood hazard as defined by the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency and provides a probabilistic measure of annualized loss or loss over the anticipated/expected lifetime of the building. The primary purpose of this information is to aid in the decision making process during planning, construction, or the retrofit process. The approach is based on known properties of wood and housing products, and when not available, reasonable interpretations/assumptions were used based on expert opinions of those in the wood and/or housing industry.