Arkistral · Wind Load Calculator
Quickly estimate basic wind pressure (q) and net design pressure (qd) for façade elements. The calculator uses q = 0.613 · V² with V in m/s.
Input Parameters
Enter basic wind speed and pressure coefficients. Empty fields are treated as optional / default values.
Results & Conversions
Values are for preliminary façade engineering. Final design must be checked against national codes and wind tunnel / wind study reports.
Note: This tool helps façade engineers during early-stage design. Final mullion / transom / anchor sizing must be verified by a structural engineer.
How to Use the Façade Wind Load Calculator
This tool calculates the basic wind pressure (Q) and the net design pressure (Qᴅ) acting on façade elements. These values are essential for designing mullions, transoms, glazing units and façade anchorage systems.
1. Basic Wind Speed (V)
Obtained from national wind maps or design codes such as EN 1991-1-4 and ASCE 7–16.
Coastal: 35–45 m/s • Inland: 28–33 m/s • High-rise: 45–60 m/s
2. Net Pressure Coefficient (Cₚ,net)
Defined as Cpe − Cpi. Represents combined external and internal pressure effects. Typical values for flat façades range between 0.7 and 1.1.
3. Safety Factor (γₓ)
Usually taken as 1.5 for façade design. Used to obtain safe-side design loads.
4. Basic Pressure (Q)
Formula: q = 0.613 · V²
Wind pressure per square meter, given in Pa, kPa and psf.
5. Net Design Pressure (Qᴅ)
Formula: Qᴅ = Q × Cₚ,net × γₓ
The actual wind load used for structural design.
Where Are These Values Used?
- Mullion and transom design (Ixx / deflection control)
- Glass thickness calculation (EN 16612)
- Bracket and anchor design
- Determining safe façade module dimensions
This tool provides a preliminary engineering calculation. Final structural design must follow local codes, engineering reports and wind tunnel data where applicable.