The paper presents the methodology and findings of a set of wind tunnel experiments on building models with an attached patio cover. Both testing procedure and data analysis are discussed and detailed results are presented. Three different configurations have been considered in order to assess the effect of building and patio cover height on the design wind pressures for patio covers. The wind tunnel experiments were conducted on a 1:100 geometric scale model tested in the Building Aerodynamics Laboratory of Concordia University. The wind pressure distribution is presented in the form of pressure coefficients for both the top and the bottom surface of the patio. In addition, critical net wind pressures on the patio cover and the correlation of pressures for the two patio cover surfaces are evaluated. The experimental findings are also compared to those from previous studies (roof-eaves) and to the eave / overhang provisions suggested by the current codes of practice. The paper identifies the differences and shows that building codes and standards may lead to over-conservative design.
