Wind Load Calculator

Calculate wind pressure forces per ASCE 7-22 standards

What is the formula for Wind Load?

The basic wind load formula per ASCE 7-22 standards:

q = 0.00256 × Kz × Kzt × V²
Where:
q = Velocity pressure (psf)
Kz = Exposure coefficient
Kzt = Topographic factor
V = Wind speed (mph)

The design wind pressure is then calculated as:

p = q × G × Cp
G = Gust factor (0.85)
Cp = Pressure coefficient

What is Wind Load?

Wind load is the force exerted by wind on structures. Key components:

  • Direct pressure on windward surfaces
  • Suction forces on leeward surfaces
  • Lateral forces affecting structural stability

Proper calculation is crucial for structural design according to building codes (ASCE 7, IBC).

How to calculate wind velocity pressure (q)?

Follow these steps:

  1. Determine basic wind speed (V) from local building codes
  2. Select exposure category (B, C, or D)
  3. Determine topographic factor (Kzt)
  4. Apply formula: q = 0.00256 × Kz × Kzt × V²

Example Calculation:
V = 120 mph, Kz = 1.0, Kzt = 1.0
q = 0.00256 × 1 × 1 × (120)² = 36.86 psf

How to find total wind load?

Complete calculation process:

  1. Calculate velocity pressure (q)
  2. Determine gust factor (G) and pressure coefficient (Cp)
  3. Calculate design pressure: p = q × G × Cp
  4. Multiply pressure by surface area: F = p × A

Typical values:
G = 0.85 (for buildings)
Cp = 0.8 (windward wall)
Cp = -0.5 (leeward wall)