The structural wood design course provides students with the knowledge to design and construct wood-frame buildings. It includes structural analysis, lateral design loads, shear walls, horizontal diaphragms, and nailed connections. The course is intended for undergraduate students who have a background in steel design or other structural analysis courses. If you have a significant GPA of at least 3.0, you are eligible to enroll in the course.
The course covers basic and advanced structural wood design techniques. Students learn how to use the ASD method, a practice-oriented approach to structural wood design. They also learn about the design of complete wood structures.
Structural wood design can be conducted by a contractor or architect, or it can be completed using computer software. Both approaches can be helpful. However, the design professional will typically use design aids to the extent possible. When a design item is beyond the scope of the design aid, a structural engineer will perform the necessary calculations.
Wood-framed structural systems are not difficult to design. Depending on the application, the system may be pre-engineered or solid timber. In addition, there are many design aids available for use in wood-framed construction. For example, plywood is commonly used for structural panels and OSB is used for interior sidewalls.
While a large number of designs are possible, there are a few important design considerations to consider. One of these is the type of lumber that is used. Dimensional wood lumber is easily sourced in most locations, and it is relatively easy to transport to and from the work site. This type of lumber is particularly useful in long spans because it is fire resistant. On the other hand, engineered wood products are at greater risk for moisture damage.
The American Wood Council (AWC) represents 86 percent of the structural wood products industry in the USA. The organization develops standards, engineering data, technology, and information on environmental regulations for the wood products industry. As a result, it is a key resource for designers and builders.
AWC has recently joined with the International Code Council (ICC) to produce a joint publication on the design of structural wood. This joint publication includes references to AWC wood frame construction manuals, complete solutions for wood member design, and load and resistance factor design.
AWC’s latest joint publication on the design of structural wood features an integrated approach to the process. Each chapter covers a topic of interest to the design professional. Some of the topics covered in the joint publication include Allowable Stress Design, Load and Resistance Factor Design, and 2015-2018 Structural Wood Design Examples.
AWC’s joint publication on the design of structural wood is an excellent resource for professionals and students alike. It features a variety of sample drawings and specifications. Also included is a comprehensive set of drawing notes. Despite its comprehensive coverage, this book offers a simple and easy-to-understand structure for self-study.
Although there are a variety of options for the design of wood-framed structures, the most popular is the wood-frame system. Several design aids are available, including an updated floor joist span chart that is easy to understand.
