Wind Loading for Roof Trusses Using ASCE Standard

Abstract

The ASCE 7-93 Standard provides important data on wind loading. Based on this information, the designer makes decisions and interpretations of the standard. These decisions and interpretations influence the wind design loads to be applied to the structure during the structural analysis. In the practice of engineering, judgments must be made based on the available information, knowledge and experience of the designer. The knowledge and experience of designers vary. As a result, the wind loading can vary based on the differences in the decisions of the designers. These differences have been a common occurrence in practical application of wind loading to roof truss design. The writers have been involved in the development of design software and prescriptive standards. They believed it was important to produce a paper that would clearly define areas open to interpretation. Designers would then have a reference to use the same decision process. As a result, there is a significantly increased likelihood that uplifts, member design, etc., will be congruent from designer to designer.