Design properties of laterally loaded nailed or bolted wood joints

Abstract

This paper summarizes the output from a long-term project commenced in 1980 with the objective of providing reliable knowledge of the mechanical properties of nailed or bolted joints subjected to short-term lateral loadings. Motivation was the development on an international basis of probability-based partial coefficients limit states design codes for structural timberwork. Comparisons are presented between design solutions produced by applying this research and those by the use of contemporary "soft conversion" international partial coefficients limit states design codes that were calibrated from previously available data. Differences relate primarily to design of bolted joints. It is shown that there is an established acceptance in Canada of the approach adopted. Key words: wood, joints, nails, bolts, design.