Another Florida High Velocity Hurricane Zone Question

[JedClampett]

What are the requirements of Section 2121 (HVHZ-Construction Details) of the Florida Building Code meant to apply to? There appears to be very stringent requirements for spacing of columns, panel areas between columns, reinforcing of openings, etc. Yet I've seen many buildings designed where this section is not followed.
Is this section meant as a type of prescriptive design to be performed by non engineers?

 

[ron9876]

That is the tie beam tie column system which can be used instead of reinforced masonry in the HVHZ. Yes it is prescriptive. Not for non engineers. The sizes and reinforcement are minimums and have to be checked for each project.

Actually performed very well in Hurricane Andrew. Not used very much anymore since it is more expensive than reinforced masonry.

 

[Ron]

JC...agree with Ron9876. A prescriptive requirement that contains a few "I gotcha's" requiring engineering design.

As Ron9876 noted, masonry structures performed well in Hurricane Andrew, except for a lack of uplift anchorage in pre-1970 structures. The reason for that was that in prior design, uplift was not greatly considered.

 

[OHIOMatt]

Not 100% sure what you are asking, but if you are asking the areas of the state where HVHZ is in place, I believe it is Miami-Dade, Broward and possibly Monroe counties.

 

[Ron]

HVHZ applies only to Dade and Broward Counties.