Challenges for Building in Cyclonic Regions
History has given plenty of examples of the raw power cyclones can unleash, yet attempting to avoid building in cyclonic areas is highly impractical. There are challenges for anyone wishing to build in one of Australia’s cyclonic regions.
- Wind Uplift and Internal Pressure– Cyclones can cause extreme wind uplift and rapidly rising internal pressure, necessitating careful design to ensure roofs stay attached to homes.
- Overall Structural Integrity– To withstand high wind speeds and flying debris common in a cyclone, robust construction is imperative
- Water Ingress and Flooding– Homes must be built with drainage capable of preventing water ingress and managing drainage effectively to avoid significant water damage
Cyclone Requirements for Buildings In WA
Numerous requirements are designed to enhance safety and longevity to prevent costly damage or injury. These standards are periodically reviewed and amended based on the most recent scientific information.
Western Australian State Variations were introduced in the 2022 edition of the National Construction Code (NCC 2022). Builders are responsible for ensuring buildings are designed to meet applicable building standards. This includes the design team, structural engineers, building surveyors, and builders, who must demonstrate adherence to and understanding of these requirements.
How to Cyclone-Proof Your Home or Building
While there is no way to guarantee your home will suffer no damage, there are a number of precautions that may limit damage from cyclones.
- Cyclonic Tie-Down Details– These should be anchored through the concrete slab to withstand wind pressures.
- Cyclonic-Rated Fasteners– Use a number of these to hold the roof and reduce stress from high winds.
- External Doors– Should be solid-core with cyclone-rated mesh screens to hold up in strong winds and reduce window breakage.
- Metal Roofing– Attached with cyclonic-rated fasteners to stay in place regardless of wind pressure, flying debris and water penetration.
- Steel Framework– This will ensure building strength during storms.
- Walls And Ceilings– Add bracing and studs to hold up against wind pressure and reinforce the home against damage.
- Windows– Use cyclonic-rated mesh screens and shatter-proof glass to repel debris and wind pressure.
How Steel Frames WA Can Help
At Steel Frames WA, our dedicated professionals constantly strive to give our customers everything they need to be as safe as possible in the event of a cyclone. We are experienced, licensed trade professionals and understand the standards that we must meet.
We are aware of what is required during heavy wind loads and can provide the best framing solutions to help your home withstand cyclonic winds and pouring rain.
Tropical Cyclone Categories
Cyclones fall into one of five categories,
Category 1- Maximum mean wind speed 63–88 km/h.
Typical strongest gust is up to 125 km/h.
Potential Impact- Slight house damage
Damaging winds impacting crops, trees and caravans
Small watercraft may drag moorings
Category 2- Maximum mean wind speed 89–117 km/h.
Typical strongest gusts are 125–164 km/h.
Potential Impact- Minor house damage
Destructive winds cause substantial harm to signs, trees, caravans, and some crops.
There is a risk of power failures
Small watercraft may break moorings
Category 3- Maximum mean wind speed 118–159 km/h.
Typical strongest gust is 165–224 km/h.
Potential Impact- This storm can cause widespread roof and structural damage.
Very destructive winds cause significant damage to crops and trees.
Caravans may be destroyed, and power failures are likely
Category 4- Maximum mean wind speed 160–199 km/h.
Typical strongest gust is 225–279 km/h.
Highly destructive winds cause considerable roofing loss and structural damage
Many caravans will be destroyed and blown away, and extensive damage to vegetation
Additional impacts include dangerous airborne debris and widespread power failures.
Category 5- Maximum mean wind speed greater than 200 km/h.
Typical strongest gust is greater than 279 km/h.
Hazardous winds, widespread destruction of buildings and vegetation, and potential loss of life
At Steel Frames WA, we believe safety comes first, and there is no substitute for quality. That is why we design with advanced software, and our steel-framed structures meet the most exacting standards and are precisely engineered for strength and performance.
Our steel frame houses offer long-lasting value and peace of mind due to their durability. We painstakingly create structures in accordance with all building codes, ensuring the safety of those in cyclone regions. Additionally, these homes are termite-proof, completely recyclable, and 100% non-combustible.
Furthermore, we strictly adhere to the following standards for building in cyclone-prone regions, and our frames adhere to the following standards:
AS/NZS 1170.0.0.2002 (Structural Design Actions Part 0 – General Principles)
AS/NZS 1170.1.2002 (Structural Design Actions Part 1)
AS/NZS 1170.2.2011 (Structural Design Actions Part 2 – Wind Actions)
AS 4055-2012 (Wind Loads for Housing)
NASH Standard:2006 (Residential and Low Rise Steel Structures: Part 1)
AS 3566.1:2002 (Self-Drilling Screws)
AS 4100:1998 (Steel Structures Code)
AS/NZS 4600:2018 (Cold-Formed Steel Structures)
