We are often asked whether a glass fence will withstand hurricane force winds so I am pleased to provide some additional information about wind load calculation with regard to the specific loading effect on a fence panel.
Forgive my basic physics but I understand the equation to calculate wind loads is as follows:
Load per square foot = (wind speed squared) x 0.00256
For example:
40 mph wind speed
40×40 = 1600
x 0.00256 = 4.096 pounds per square foot.
Using a typical pool fence panel measuring 4ft x 6ft, the total loading on the panel would be 98.3 pounds (24sf x 25.6).
100 mph wind speed
100×100 = 10,0000.0
x 0.00256 = 25.6 pounds per square foot.
Using a typical pool fence panel measuring 4ft x 6ft, the total loading on the panel would be 614.4 pounds (24sf x 25.6).
It should be noted that this assumes the wind is hitting the glass perpendicular to the surface. It does not take into account the ‘Drag Coefficient’ of the glass. Wind force will be significantly reduced when it is hitting the glass at an angle and sheering off in all directions.
We have tested the US Glass Fence Mergelock ML-003 glass fencing post with a 24 square foot panel to simulate a wind load of 800 pounds. The test was completed by an independent testing organization. The glass paned was able to withstand the forces and did not break.
Robin Leigh