© 2006 Door & Access Systems
Publish Date: Fall 2006
Author: Joe Hetzel
Page 70

TECHNICAL TIPS

ASK JOE HETZEL
MPH and Wind Codes

My local garage door dealer is offering a door that they claim can withstand wind gusts of up to 80 miles per hour. How do I know if that door meets our local code?

Joe: First, you need to know whether a local code has indeed been adopted. If a code has been adopted, find out on which model code it is based. It’s also helpful to know whether wind-load requirements are being enforced.

These days, the most common model codes are the international codes, e.g., the International Building Code and the International Residential Code. If your local code is modeled on an international code, and wind loads are being enforced, the design wind speed can be anywhere from 85 MPH to 150 MPH.

Therefore, a door that withstands wind loads based on a wind speed of 80 MPH will not likely comply with modern building codes. However, I recommend that you review product information with a local building official to help ensure that the right product is installed.