Supporting Elevated Faith: Wind Load Design for Rooftop Steeples in Coastal Florida

At WindCalculations.com, we specialize in structural wind load engineering for unique and elevated installations — including steeplechase structures mounted atop church roofs. These projects require not only a deep understanding of wind behavior and code compliance, but also the precision to work with tall, slender elements mounted at significant heights.

We recently completed a site-specific wind load engineering package for a steeple installation on a church rooftop in Pensacola, Florida. As a coastal zone with high wind exposure, the design had to meet elevated safety requirements while aligning with the Florida Building Code.

Key Design Parameters:

• Design Wind Speed: 167 mph (Vult)

• Risk Category: III (Essential Facility)

• Exposure Category: C

• Code Basis: ASCE 7-22 + Florida Building Code (2023, 8th Edition)

Our scope included:

• Wind pressure calculations specific to the steeple’s geometry and mounting height

• Structural detailing for proper attachment to the roof framing

• General and structural notes covering flashing, waterproofing coordination, and construction safety requirements

• A sealed PE letter ready for permitting and AHJ review

⛪ “Steeples are symbolic — but they’re also structural. When placed high above a roofline in a wind-prone region, they must be engineered with precision.”

Special Considerations:

Because steeples are often mounted over existing finished roof systems, our design addressed:

• Flashing and waterproofing coordination (to be performed by others per FBC requirements)

• Fall protection considerations during construction and installation

• No structural changes to the steeple itself — our work focused strictly on supporting wind load design and attachment detailing

Why WindCalculations.com?

We understand that not all projects are standard. When you're dealing with tall rooftop elements, specialty mounting systems, or site-specific structures, generic wind load charts won’t cut it.

We provide:

• Fast turnaround on PE-sealed wind calculations

• Florida Building Code expertise

• Clean, permit-ready documentation

• Engineering that protects public safety and project timelines

Planning a steeple, cross, or specialty structure on your rooftop?

Let’s make sure it stands strong — and stands the test of time.

👉 Request a quote today