skyscraper scale model simulate load bearing

[tali1]

before building a skyscraper what scale do they use of model to simulate load bearing ?
eg , for a very tall 1500ft skyscraper- how big would the scale model be to accurately represent its behaviour?

[Loosehead]

They design it in CAD and test it to death long before a block is even laid.

[tali1]

thanks but what i meant was what about before computers and CAD was around?

[heathfield]

The load bearing qualities were based more on tests on the strength and flexibiliy of materials rather than any completed model. 'Over-engineering' would be used to increase the safety factor. The Empire State Building, for example, is so strongly constructed it's reckoned that it only sways around 5mm in the highest winds. Not bad for a 1250ft high building!