Data Center Journal

Volume 31 | April 2014

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W ind resistance levels that exceed code requirements are oen considered for data center projects and have become an important selling point as a differentiator in the marketplace. For new construction, enhancing wind resistance is relatively simple and, to a point, inexpensive. For existing structures it can be more difficult and expensive. At high enough wind speeds, wind-induced failures can generally be expected to proceed sequentially through the following: • Roof membrane failure resulting in minor to significant water intrusion • Roof structure failure resulting in openings that allow significant water and pos- sibly debris intrusion • Substantial failure of the roof structure resulting in structural failure of the entire building A critical aspect of wind design involves determining the wind speed at which the enclosure openings may fail, allowing wind to blow into and pressurize the building. en the upward pull of low pressure above the roof is supplemented by internal pressure pushing up, suddenly increasing stresses. is is when buildings tend to experience total failure. erefore, the wind rating of doors, windows and other openings is significant. An additional critical component for wind resistance is the installation of concrete topping when steel deck is used. Concrete topping serves as a partial water barrier if the roof membrane is lost, thus limiting the amount of water that Wind Design Considerations for Data Center Roofs BY BRIAN GEORGE THE DATA CENTER JOURNAL | 21 www.datacenterjournal.com

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