Low, moderate and high rise buildings

[gotlboys]

thread507-378829

How do we define low, moderate and high rise buildings in terms of height or storey numbers?
Are there provisions in some codes as to these definition(ACI/ASCE/IBC)?

 

[engrjenjen]

A Low-Rise Building is defined as enclosed or partially enclosed building that comply with the following conditions:
1. Mean roof height h less than or equal to 18m.
2. Mean roof height h does not exceed least horizontal dimension.

Whereas, High-Rise Building may be considered as flexible, or slender buildings that have a fundamental natural frequency less than 1 Hz.

These definitions are according to the code.

 

[hokie66]

There are a lot of codes, and a lot of definitions. What code are you quoting from, engrjenjen?

 

[wannabeSE]

You need to look at the specific code of interest. I don't think there are any universal definitions. Local building code and zoning requirements may have different definitions.

2012 IBC definitions
HIGH-RISE BUILDING. A building with an occupied floor located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.

ASCE 07-10 Wind definitions in chapter 26
BUILDING, LOW-RISE: Enclosed or partially enclosed buildings that comply with the following conditions:
1. Mean roof height h less than or equal to 60 ft (18 m).
2. Mean roof height h does not exceed least horizontal dimension.

 

[engrjenjen]

I am referring to our local code, but this is also based on the latest edition of the American code counterparts.

There are a lot of codes, and a lot of definitions. What code are you quoting from, engrjenjen?

 

[hokie66]

But what is your local code? As noted above, American codes vary. The definitions usually include low rise, mid rise, high rise, skyscraper, super tall. Elevator companies have their own definitions.

 

[engrjenjen]

I am using the National Structural Code of the Philippines (NSCP 2010).