Vestibule Drop Ceiling Wind Load Classification

[A. Harcher]

Hello all,

I am having an issue finding the proper wind load classification for a drop ceiling I am designing in a hotel vestibule. I have read through the Structural Wind Load section of the 2012 IBC, could this fall under a components and cladding classification? I'm a new engineer so this wind load classification has me stumped and looking for some help from experienced minds. Thanks.

- A. Harcher

 

[SteelSlugged]

Maybe it's different for other parts of the US/world, but I understand a vestibule to be the 'airlock chamber' of the building - the small room used as an entryway before entering the lobby of a building.

If that's the case, then it's an interior space and not subject to wind loads. Am I understanding this correctly? Could you perhaps be referring to a canopy - an exterior space before entering the vestibule or doors of a building? Open roofs would then be what you are looking for.

 

[DaveAtkins]

If it is interior, it won't see wind loads. For an interior soffit, I don't think the 5 psf interior lateral pressure applies, either.

DaveAtkins

 

[jayrod12]

I would be inclined to say in a vestibule the interior 5psf would apply. When it's a super windy day and someone opens the outside door (with the inside door still closed) the interior pressure would skyrocket.

 

[hokie66]

Should be the same as for the vertical surfaces abutting the ceiling. Pressure is in all directions.

 

[dhengr]

Why isn’t this akin to a partially open building or space, with the potential for some fairly high pressures, generally pushing upward or outward?

 

[Ron]

Agree with jayrod and hokie66...for the same reasons!