Wind Loading Calculator - Calculator Academy

Enter the area exposed to the wind, the wind speed, and the pressure coefficient into the calculator to determine the total wind load (force) on a structure. The calculator provides the wind load in pounds-force (lb) by default.

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Wind Load Formula

The following simplified formula is used to estimate the total wind load (force) on a surface:

WL = 0.00256 * C * V^2 * A

Variables:

WL is the wind load (total force) (pounds-force, lb)
C is the pressure coefficient (unitless)
V is the wind speed (miles per hour)
A is the area exposed to the wind (square feet)

To calculate the wind load (total force), multiply the pressure coefficient by the square of the wind speed, then multiply by the constant 0.00256 and the exposed area. (Note: 0.00256 × V² gives an estimated wind pressure in psf when V is in mph; multiplying by area converts that pressure to a total force.)

What is Wind Load?

Wind load is the force exerted by the wind on a structure. It is an important consideration in the design and construction of buildings and other structures, as it can affect their stability and integrity. The wind load depends on factors such as the wind speed, the shape and size of the structure, and its orientation relative to the wind direction.

How to Calculate Wind Load?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Wind Load:

First, determine the area exposed to the wind (A) in square feet.
Next, determine the wind speed (V) in miles per hour.
Next, determine the pressure coefficient (C).
Next, gather the formula from above = WL = 0.00256 * C * V^2 * A.
Finally, calculate the Wind Load (WL) in pounds-force (lb).
After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem:

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

Area exposed to the wind (A) = 500 square feet

Wind speed (V) = 100 miles per hour

Pressure coefficient (C) = 1.3