Which section of ASCE 7 do you typically use to determine design wind loads for rooftop screenwalls?  Would they be considered roof top equipment?  Or perhaps you consider them to be a parapet or a freestanding sign?  Does the location on the roof affect which provision to use?

In the March 2025 SEU session, Emily Guglielmo, PE, SE, from Martin/Martin, presented Refining Wind Load Approaches for Non-building Structures.  Emily reviewed the applicability of ASCE 7 wind load provisions for rooftop equipment, screenwalls, PV panels, signs and canopies, and other non-building structures.  She also addressed ways to approach wind loads on structures not explicitly addressed in ASCE 7 such as trellises, tall parapets, and balcony rails.  Emily presented rational analysis strategies to address gaps in code provisions for non-building structures and industry best practices.

Emily addressed a common but often debatable topic: wind loads on screenwalls.  Engineers often vary on whether they consider screenwalls to be rooftop equipment, solid freestanding signs, or parapets.  Along with confusion on which provision to use, engineers also might wonder whether shielding can be considered on the equipment enclosed within the screenwalls.  To hear Emily address how ASCE 7 considers screenwalls and shielding, click below to watch this short video:

While some wind provisions in ASCE 7 are explicit, there are some gray areas especially as it applies to non-building structures which often encompasses unique situations.  Screenwalls are not explicitly included in the body of the code, however the commentary provides ample feedback on how to appropriately address these rooftop structures.