Wind Load Factors
Our wind load factors map is a resource for engineers designing structures for wind loads in Seattle. Our map shows wind exposure and terrain adjustment factors based on the wind load provisions in the American Society of Civil Engineers’ (ASCE’s) Minimum Design Loads of Buildings and Other Structures (ASCE 7). You can use our map when you are using ASCE 7 in your designs.
The color-coded areas identify areas in Seattle where SDCI will allow factors to be used in calculating wind loads that may differ from the values in ASCE 7. We will accept the topographic factor (Kzt) values on this map as default values for Kzt instead of the calculated values required by Section 26.8.2 of the 2016 edition of ASCE 7 (ASCE 7-16). In addition, where ASCE 7 would ordinarily require the use of factors associated with Exposure Category D (shoreline areas with at least 1 mile of water upwind — see ASCE 7-16 Section 26.7.3 for a more precise definition), we will accept the use of the factors associated with Exposure Category C in the areas shown on the map. Other shoreline areas are not required to be designated as Exposure Category D.
