Requirements for Wall Coverings and Wind Pressures

The International Residential code (IRC) and the American Society of Civil Engineers’ Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures (ASCE 7) require that wall coverings (component and cladding loads) be capable of resisting wind pressure caused by the design wind speeds.

This publication is designed for: architects, designers, engineers, builders

This publication discusses the code requirements and the reasons behind them. It also provides information about how to meet the code requirements. This information is compiled in a table that outlines maximum wind speed (mph – 3 second gust) permitted for wood structural panel sheathing used as a wall covering to meet 2012 IRC and ASCE 7.

Published by APA — The Engineered Wood Association.