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Windborne debris and the building envelope

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Abstract
Twenty three years of documented windstorm dagage experiences illustrate the importance of protection evelope from windborne debris and fluctuating pressures that occur during windstorm events. A 2 x 4 timber and roof gravel are defined as representing objects for use in standard tests to qualify products for use in the building envelope. A 9000 cycle pressure spectrum that represents fluctuating pressures which occur in a hurricane is also specified for product qualification tests. The evolution of these test standards is teaced and building codes that have adopted these criteria are referenced. Current design practices that are responsive to these windstorm effects and standard tests are described. Windows and architectural glazing that can protect openings in the building envelope from being breached by windborne debris are illustrated.
Date
0/1994
Author(s)
Joseph Minor
Page(s)
207-227
Keyword(s)
wind; windborne debris; building envelope; windstorm; aggregate; building code; missile; hurricane; window breakage


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