Risk analysis of light-frame wood construction subjected to extreme winds

摘要

The majority of residential buildings in the United States utilize light-frame wood construction. In the past two decades, hurricanes have caused enormous economic losses to residential construction, impacting individuals, communities and the insurance industry. This paper describes ongoing research to develop a general methodology for assessing the probabilistic response (fragilities) of light-frame construction exposed to various levels of extreme winds. Strategies for improving structural safety and performance and for mitigating economic losses can be proposed from the application of methodology in this study.