Description

The wall support systems that extend from the foundation wall to the roof structure. Superstructures include the exterior wall sheathing panels, shear panels, or braced wall panels. This section also includes structural members that support the roof (rafters and trusses), but does not include the roof sheathing.

Wood frame construction:

• Lightweight lumber or metal studs Interior wall framing (without sheathing)
• Typical exterior structural panel wall sheathing is plywood or hardboard

Masonry construction:

• Load bearing walls using unreinforced masonry (URM) and reinforced block or brick
• Typical exterior covers are stucco, siding (aluminum, vinyl, or wood), and masonry veneer
• Reinforced concrete construction should be categorized under masonry

Basic Flood Modeling Assumptions:

1. Medium height freshwater flooding; limited duration. No high-velocity action; no wave action
2. A 1-story house (without basement) is used for this example house to establish the Categories of Work percentages of total costs

Special Considerations for Coastal/High Velocity Floods

• Coastal areas have higher wind conditions requiring additional exterior wall structural panels, shear walls, and braced wall panels
• Damage to these wall structural systems would indicate a higher percent of damage, because they are already designed to resist higher wind conditions