Low Rise Buildings
For the majority of low-rise buildings the loading information contained in standard codes of practice on wind loading is generally sufficient to obtain a reliable design. However, for buildings of more unconventional geometry and construction whose design is more sensitive to wind effects, specific, more accurate loading data is required to achieve a safe and efficient design. In built up areas low rise buildings are generally subject to highly complex wind flows due to the flow pattern around the surrounding, often bigger, buildings. The 
only way to obtain accurate wind loading data in these cases is via a wind tunnel test in a boundary layer wind tunnel. In addition, an increasing number of landmark low-rise buildings are being designed with natural ventilation schemes which are controlled by local wind flows and the resulting pressure distributions.
BMT Fluid Mechanics has significant experience in assessing the effects of wind on building developments. Services range from initial design reviews and appraisals to in-depth model tests in BMT's boundary layer wind tunnel using sophisticated measurement and analysis techniques, and state-of-the-art numerical modelling using Computational Fluid Dynamics.
Expertise in relation to wind effects on low rise buildings include:
- Wind loading on cladding, glazing and roofs
- Wind loading for structural design
- Wind environment for pedestrian and user comfort and safety
- Internal and external ventilation
- Air quality exposure of users and occupants
- Fire and smoke spread
