47.5 MB - The Whole Building Design Guide

Soffits: Depending on the wind direction,soffits can experience either positive or negativepressure. Besides the cost of repairing steel fasteners are recommended for wallWhere corrosion is a problem, stainlessthe damaged soffits, wind-borne soffit debriscan cause property damage and injuries (e.g., furring, blocking, struts, and hangers),and soffit systems. For other components(see Figure 3-42). Failed soffits may also providea convenient path for wind-driven rain stainless steel, or steel with a minimum ofnonferrous components (such as wood),to enter the building. Storm-damage researchhas shown that water blown into attic recommended. Additionally, access panelsG-90 hot-dipped galvanized coating arespaces after the loss of soffits caused significantdamage and the collapse of ceilings. soffit cavities can be periodically inspectedare recommended so components withinAt the relatively new fire station shown in for corrosion or dry rot.Figure 3-43, essentially all of the perforatedaluminum soffit was blown away. Winddrivenwater entered the attic and saturated the batt insulation,which caused the ceiling boards to collapse. After the storm, thefire station was evacuated solely because of this damage. Evenin instances where soffits remain in place, water can penetratethrough soffit vents and cause damage. At this time, there are noknown specific test standards or design guidelines to help designwind- and water-resistant soffits and soffit vents.Figure 3-42:This suspended metalsoffit was not designedfor upward-acting windpressure. Typhoon Paka(Guam, 1997)MAKING CRITICAL FACILITIES SAFE FROM High Wind3-57