The strength of wind required to knock down a house depends on various factors, including the construction quality, design, materials used, and wind direction. Generally, houses are built to withstand a certain level of wind force based on regional building codes and standards.
Most modern residential structures are designed to withstand wind speeds associated with common weather events, such as strong gusts, storms, and hurricanes. Building codes typically specify the minimum wind speed that a structure should be able to withstand without significant damage.
In the United States, for example, residential building codes are based on the International Residential Code (IRC), which provides guidelines for different wind zones. The wind speed requirements can vary from region to region, depending on the local climate and historical wind patterns.
Typically, houses constructed to meet building codes can withstand wind speeds of 90 to 120 miles per hour (145 to 193 kilometers per hour) or higher, depending on the specific requirements for the area. Houses designed for hurricane-prone regions may have even higher wind resistance, capable of withstanding wind speeds exceeding 150 miles per hour (241 kilometers per hour).
It's important to note that while houses are designed to withstand high wind forces, extreme weather events like tornadoes or exceptionally powerful hurricanes can produce wind speeds that may exceed the design limits of typical residential structures. In such cases, the risk of severe damage or destruction increases significantly.
If you are concerned about the wind resistance of your house or live in an area prone to high wind events, it's advisable to consult local building codes and consider professional advice for reinforcement or additional measures to enhance the wind resistance of your home.