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Original Message:
Sent: 12-10-2025 09:23 AM
From: Mohammad Sheaito
Subject: Wind loads in ASCE 7, Chapter 27 or 30 or both?
For carports with mono-slope solar panel roofing, or elevated structures on roofs of existing buildings (pergola-like anchored to the roof slab), I've been argued to use both Chapter 27 and Chapter 30 of ASCE 7-16 because ch.27 uses Winward\Leeward (X direction having minimal surface area and exceptions apply to discard torsion) while ch.30 include extreme loads at corners and edges via zoning the loads, thus more accurately representing the structure. Their word is to use:
Chapter 27 for designing the main frame and checking overall stability, including foundations.
Chapter 30 for designing the purlins as Components & Cladding.
My understanding is that Chapter 30 (Part 5 ASCE 7-16 /Part 2 ASCE 7-22) is a simplified approach of ch.27 and applies to open structures. This matches our structure completely, without needing two calculation methods.
My question is: Should both Chapter 27 and Chapter 30 be applied together or is chapter 30 sufficient for all wind design requirements?
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Mohammad Sheaito P.E., M.ASCE
Project Engineer
KERDO Sal
Achrafieh
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