Designing

Wood Frame
Structures For High
Winds
“The Wood Products Council” is This course is registered
a Registered Provider with The with AIA CES for continuing
American Institute of Architects professional education. As
Continuing Education Systems such, it does not include
(AIA/CES), Provider #G516. content that may be
deemed or construed to be
an approval or
Credit(s) earned on completion endorsement by the AIA of
of this course will be reported to any material of
AIA CES for AIA members. construction or any method
Certificates of Completion for or manner of
both AIA members and non-AIA handling, using,
members are available upon distributing, or dealing in
request. any material or product.
________________________________
Questions related to specific
materials, methods, and services will
be addressed at the conclusion of this
presentation.
Course Description
Wood framing is conducive to meeting the challenges of wind-
resistive design. Among its characteristics, wood can carry
substantially greater maximum loads for short durations of time as
is the case in high-wind events. Wood buildings also tend to include
multiple and often redundant load paths for resistance to wind
forces. This presentation will cover the design of a building’s wind-
resisting system, including wind load calculations, diaphragms,
shear walls and collectors. Load path continuity will be discussed,
as will unique design considerations for designing wood-frame
structures to resist uplift, in-plane, and out-of-plane wind loads.
Design examples will be presented to illustrate relevant design
procedures and detailing best practices.
Learning Objectives
1. Review the parameters for building wind load
calculations per ASCE 7 and the International Building
Code.
2. Examine the three main types of building wind loads
(uplift, in-plane, and out-of-plane) and design
considerations associated with each.
3. Discuss common wood-frame shear wall, diaphragm,
and tie-down systems.
4. Recognize the benefits of redundancy in wind-
resisting wood-frame systems.
Overview

• Wind
• Calculating Wind Loads
• Uplift
• Wall Design
• Diaphragms
• Shearwalls
Making our Buildings Safe - Wind
High wind loads acting on a building are a result of a variety of types
of windstorms which have differing natures and occurrences. Building
design should include wind load resistance and account for the
characteristics of the type of storms that can impact the building.
Making our Buildings Safe - Hurricanes

Image Source: Whole Building Design Guide

Making our Buildings Safe - Tornadoes

Image Source: Whole Building Design Guide

Using Wood to Resist Wind: Benefits
“Experience has shown that code-compliant wood buildings
perform exceedingly well during high wind events such as
hurricanes. Wood is strong and most wood-frame buildings
offer the advantage of repetitive members and multiple
connections, which together create redundant load paths to
effectively transfer wind forces from the building envelope to
the foundation and soil below”.

Quote Source: Wind-Resistive Design of Wood Buildings, AWC

Photo: New Genesis Apartments, Killefer Flammang Architects, KC Kim, GB Construction
 Why Wood?

Wood Costs Less

Wood is Versatile

Wood Meets Code

Wood is Durable

Wood is Renewable

Using Wood Helps Reduce Your Environmental Impact

Wood Products Play a Significant Role in Modern Economy
Wind Loads
Wind loads acting on buildings
are modeled as uniform
surface loads. Wind loads can
create both positive and
negative loads (inwards and
outwards loads) on building
surfaces and create three
different loading conditions:
• Uplift
• Racking/overturning
• Sliding/shear
Wind Force Distribution

Image Source: Whole Building Design Guide

Wind Load Demand
ASCE 7: Referenced Standard.
Provides information required
to determine wind forces on a
structure

IBC: Base Code – References

ASCE 7 for determination of
wind forces on structures
Calculating Wind Loads

• ASCE 7-05
§ Chpt. 6: Contained All Provisions
• ASCE 7-10
§ Chpt. 26: General Requirements
§ Chpt. 27: MWFRS – Directional
§ Chpt. 28: MWFRS – Enveloped
§ Chpt. 29: Other Structures
§ Chpt. 30: Components & Cladding
§ Appendices
Determine Basic Wind Speed, V mph

115

Per ASCE 7-10 Fig. 26.5-1A

Determine Basic Wind Speed, V
• ASCE 7-05
§ ASD Loads
§ 90 mph per fig. 6-1

• ASCE 7-10 (figures incorporate importance

factor)
§ Ultimate Loads
§ 115 mph per figure 26.5-1A
for RK II
§ 120 mph per figure 26.5-1B
for RK III & IV
§ 105 mph per figure 26.5-1C
for RK I
Note: RK = Risk Category
Image Source: SK Ghosh Associates
Wind Speed By Location Software

windspeed.atcouncil.org
Running the Numbers: Velocity Pressure

• qz = 0.00256KzKztKdV2
§ qz = velocity pressure (psf)
§ Kz – Exposure coefficient, Table 30.3-1 (7-05
Table 6-3)
§ Kzt – Topographic factor, Figure 26.8-1 (7-05
Figure 6-4)
§ Kd – Directionality factor, Table 26.6-1 (7-05
Table 6-4)
Wind Loads Types

2 Types of Wind Loads

• MWFRS – Main Wind Force Resisting System
An assemblage of structural elements assigned to
provide support and stability for the overall structure.
The system generally receives wind loading from more
than one surface. Eg. Shearwalls, diaphragms
• C&C – Components & Cladding
Elements of the building envelope that do not qualify
as part of the MWFRS. Eg. Wall studs
MWFRS Method Options

Two Methods of Calculating MWFRS loads:

• Envelope: Pressure coefficients represent
“pseudo” loading that envelope the desired
moment, shear... Limited to low-rise
• Directional: Pressure coefficients reflect wind
loading on each surface as a function of wind
direction
MWFRS Method Options

How to decide which method to use:

Envelope: ASCE 7-10 Chapter 28
• Part 1: Can be used for all regular-shaped
enclosed & partially enclosed buildings with
mean roof height ≤ 60 ft
• Part 2 (Simplified): Can be used for all regular-
shaped, enclosed, simple diaphragm buildings
with mean roof height ≤ 60 ft
MWFRS Method Options

How to decide which method to use:

Directional: ASCE 7-10 Chapter 27
• Part 1: Can be used for all regular-shaped
buildings
• Part 2 (Simplified): Can be used for all regular-
shaped, enclosed, simple diaphragm buildings
with mean roof height ≤ 160 ft
MWFRS Method Options

ASCE 7-10 MWFRS Options

Directional Method, CH 27 Envelope Method CH 28

Simplified, Directional

Simplified, Envelope
Part 1: Part 2: Part 1: Part 2:
Enclosed, Enclosed, Enclosed Enclosed,
Partially Simple & Partially Simple
Enclosed, Diaphragm Enclosed Diaphragm
Open Buildings Buildings Buildings
Buildings with h ≤ with h ≤ with h ≤
All Heights 160 ft 60 ft 60 ft

Note: Wind Tunnel Procedure (ASCE 7-10 Chpt 31) can also be used
Simple Diaphragm Buildings
A building in which both windward and leeward
wind loads are transmitted by roof and vertically
spanning wall assemblies, through continuous floor
and roof diaphragms, to the MWFRS.

Simple Diaphragm Building Non-Simple Diaphragm Building

Comparison of methods to calculate MWFRS (GCpf)
Example: Flat Roof, 30’ x 60’ Building:
Ch. 27 Directional
• Windward Wall (0.8)
• Leeward Walls (-0.3)
• Determine Gust Effect (G) = 0.85 ASCE 7-10 Figure 27.4-1

• For MWFRS GCpf = (1.1)(0.85) = 0.935

Ch. 28 Enveloped
§ Limited to Low-Rise (h≤60’)
§ Windward Wall (0.4)
§ Leeward Wall (-0.29)
§ For MWFRS GCpf = 0.69 ASCE 7-10 Figure 28.4-1
35% difference in loading not accounting for end zones.
MWFRS Method Options

Beneficial to use
the envelope
method when its
limitations are met

ASCE 7-10 Fig. C28.4-1

Minimum Wind Loads
For both the Directional & Envelope Methods, consider
minimum wind loads:
ASCE 7-10 Sections 27.1.5 & 28.4.4:
Wind Loads for MWFRS in an enclosed or partially
enclosed building shall not be less than:
§ 16 psf (ultimate or ~10 psf ASD) for walls
§ 8 psf (ultimate or ~5 psf ASD) for roofs
Wall and roof loads shall be applied simultaneously. The
design wind force for open buildings shall be not less
than 16 psf ultimate (open building provisions apply
only to Directional Method).
Building Enclosure
Accounts for degree to which wind forces can enter
and exit a structure, creating varying amounts of
internal wind pressure
3 building enclosure classifications:
Open, Partially Enclosed, and Enclosed
Running the Numbers: Design Wind Pressure

• p = qh[(GCp) – (GCpi)]
§ p = Design wind pressure (psf)
§ qh = velocity pressure (psf)
§ GCp: External pressure coefficient
Figures 27.4-1, 28.4-1, 30.4-1
Note: Figure 27.4-1 also requires Gust effect factor (G) per
section 26.9

§ GCpi: Internal pressure coefficient, Table 26.11-

1 (7-05 Figure 6-5)
Internal Pressure Coefficient – Table 26.11-1

+/- 0.18 - Enclosed

+/- 0.55 – Partially Enclosed
Actual Wind Loads

Comparing ASCE 7-05 to ASCE 7-10:

Load Combinations:
7. 0.6D + W (ASCE 7-05)
7. 0.6D + 0.6W (ASCE 7-10)

3 Second Wind Speed:

90 mph (ASCE 7-05)
115 mph * √0.6 = 89 mph (ASCE 7-10)

Final load on building is very similar

IBC’s Alternate All-Heights Method
IBC Section 1609.6 provides an alternative to the
Directional Wind Load Procedure in ASCE 7

Alternate All-Heights Method

Limitations such as:

• Building Height ≤ 75 ft
• Building Height/Width ≤ 4
• Building has simple diaphragm
• Others (IBC 1609.6.1)

Pnet = 0.00256V2KzCnetKzt
IBC’s Alternate All-Heights Method

Pnet = 0.00256V2KzCnetKzt

• V = Basic wind speed (ASCE 7)

• Kz = Exposure coefficient (ASCE 7)
• Kzt = Topographic factor (ASCE 7)
• Cnet = Net-pressure coefficient (IBC Table 1609.6.2)
IBC’s Alternate All-Heights Method
IBC Table 1609.6.2
Wind Borne Debris Regions
Per ASCE 7-10, section 26.2, Wind Borne Debris regions are
Areas within hurricane-prone regions where impact protection
is required for glazed openings (buildings in Risk Category I are
exempt – ASCE 26.10.3 & IBC 1609.1.2)
Protection of glazed openings is required (ASCE 7 26.10.3):
• Within 1 mile of the coastal mean high water line where
the basic wind speed is equal to or greater than 130 mph,
or
• In areas where the basic wind speed is equal to or greater
than 140 mph

• Other exemptions, testing requirements given in ASCE 7-10,

section 26.10.3
Wind Borne Debris Regions

Image: greenheck.com
Wind Borne Debris Regions
Failed openings can change a structure from enclosed to
partially enclosed, significantly increasing wind forces
Let’s Talk About Wood
1. Uplift – Load Path Continuity
2. Wall – Stud Design
3. Diaphragms
4. Shearwalls
Uplift Wind Loads

Uplift – Outward (suction) force acting on roof

Load path - roof to foundation required unless dead

load is greater than uplift
 Uplift Loads

Source: strongtie.com
Methods to Resist Uplift Loads
• Mechanical connectors (straps, hurricane ties, screws, threaded rods)
• Sheathing
• Dead Loads

Source: strongtie.com
 Uplift Resistance: Mechanical Connectors

Source: IIBHS
Uplift Resistance: Wall Sheathing
• When joints, fasteners are considered, can use sheathing to resist
uplift
• SDPWS Section 4.4

SDPWS Figure 4I
Uplift Resistance: Direct Load Path
Important to detail uplift restraint connectors to provide
direct load path
Roof Geometry & Uplift

Image Source: Whole Building Design Guide

 Uplift: MWFRS or C&C?
Consider member part of MWFRS if:
• Tributary Area> 700ft2 per ASCE 7-10 30.2.3
• Load coming from more than one surface per ASCE 7-10 26.2
Uplift: MWFRS or C&C?

AWC’s WFCM commentary C1.1.2 states that MWFRS

is used for all uplift conditions:

The rationale for using MWFRS loads

for computing the uplift of roof
assemblies recognizes that the
spatial and temporal pressure
fluctuations that cause the higher
coefficients for components and
cladding are effectively averaged by
wind effects on different roof
surfaces.
Uplift: MWFRS or C&C?

ASCE 7-10 26.2 commentary provides some discussion

on uplift & MWFRS vs. C&C.
Components receive wind loads directly
or from cladding and transfer the load
to the MWFRS. Examples of
components include fasteners, purlins,
girts, studs, roof decking, and roof
trusses. Components can be part of the
MWFRS when they act as shear walls
or roof diaphragms, but they may also
be loaded as individual components.
Effective Wind Area
For wind design, tributary area does not necessarily =
effective wind area

Effective Wind Area (EWA) - Two cases:

• Area of building surface contributing to force being
considered (tributary area)
• Long and narrow area (wall studs, roof trusses): width
of effective area may be taken as 1/3 length; increases
effective area, decreases load (per ASCE 7-10 section
26.2 commentary); EWA = L2/3
 Effective Wind Area Example
Trib. A = (44)(2) = 88 ft2 EWA = 442/3 = 645 ft2

44’-0” 44’-0”

Trusses Trusses
@ 2’ o.c. @ 2’ o.c.
Uplift Example Calculation
• Roof Framing Rafter
• 20’ Span
• 2’ Spacing
• 2’ Overhang
• 115 mph Exposure B
• Roof H = 80 ft
• 65’x220’

Photo credit: Matt Todd & PB

Architects
MWFRS - External Pressure Coefficient
Look at wind acting on building’s long side:
L = 65 ft, h/L = 80/65 = 1.23
Cp = 1.3, -0.18

ASCE 7-10 Fig. 27.4-1

MWFRS - Running the numbers
• GCp: (0.85)(-1.3) = 1.105 (26.9.4 & Fig. 27.4-1)
• GCpi: ±0.18 (Table 26.11-1)
• qh = 0.00256KzKztKdV2
§ Kz : 0.93 – Table 27.3-1
§ Kzt : 1.00 - Figure 26.8-1
§ Kd : 0.85 - Table 26.6-1
§ Vu: 115 mph
• qh = 26.8 psf
• p = (26.8 psf)(-1.105+(-0.18)) = 34.4 psf
MWFRS - Roof Overhang per section 27.4.4
• For Overhangs: ASCE 7 27.4.4 – use Cp = 0.8 on underside of
overhang, use same top pressures calculated for typ. roof
• poh = (26.8 psf)(-0.8)(0.85) = 18.2 psf
• pext = (26.8 psf)(-1.105) = 29.6 psf
pext
• poh net = 18.2 + 29.6 = 47.8 psf

Poh pint

Per ASCE 7-10 section 27.4.4

 MWRFS - Determining the Uplift Load
• p = (34.4 psf)(2ft) = 68.8 plf
• poh = (47.8 psf)(2ft) = 95.6 plf
95.6 plf
68.8 plf

Uplift = 0.6(95.6 plf(2ft.) + 68.8 plf*20ft/2) = 528 lbs

Dead Load = 0.6((2+20/2)*10psf*2ft) = 144 lbs
Net Uplift at Left Support= 528 lbs -144 lbs = 384 lbs
Note: It is common practice to use 2 sets of dead loads: highest potential dead loads for gravity,
lowest potential dead loads for uplift
C&C - External Pressure Coefficient
3 zones with differing wind loads:

1: Field
2: Perimeter
3: Salient corners

a = smaller of 10% of least

horizontal dimension or 0.4h, but
not less than either 4% of least
horizontal dimension of 3 ft

ASCE 7-10 Fig. 30.4-2A

C&C - External Pressure Coefficient – Fig. 30.4-2A

EWA = H2/3 = 222/3

= 161ft2

GCP = -1.1 FOR

INTERIOR

ASCE 7-10 Fig. 30.4-2A

C&C - Running the numbers – Zone 2
• GCp: -1.1 (Figure 30.4-2A)
• GCpi: ±0.18 (Table 26.11-1)
• qh = 0.00256KzKztKdV2
§ Kz : 0.93 - Table 30.3-1
§ Kzt : 1.00 - Figure 26.8-1
§ Kd : 0.85 - Table 26.6-1
§ Vu: 115 mph
• qh = 26.8 psf
• p = (26.8 psf)(-1.1+(-0.18)) = 34.3 psf
 C&C - Roof Overhang per section 30.10
• For Overhangs Figures 30.4-2A& 30.10-1 are utilized
• poh = 26.8 psf(1.7+0.18) = 50.4 psf
EWA = 2*2 = 4 sf
• ps = pw = 34.3 psf
• poh net = 50.4 + 34.3 = 84.7 psf GCp = -1.7

pOH

ps

pW
ASCE 7-10 Fig. 30.4-2A
Per ASCE 7-10 Fig. 30.10-1
 C&C - Determining the Uplift Load
• p = (34.3 psf)(2ft) = 68.6 plf
• poh = (84.7 psf)(2ft) = 169.4 plf
169.4 plf
68.6 plf

Uplift = 0.6(169.4 plf(2ft.) + 68.6 plf*20ft/2) = 615 lbs

Dead Load = 0.6((2+20/2)*10psf*2ft) = 144 lbs
Net Uplift at Left Support= 615 lbs -144 lbs = 471 lbs
Note: It is common practice to use 2 sets of dead loads: highest potential dead loads for gravity,
lowest potential dead loads for uplift
Determining the Uplift Load

384 lbs MWFRS OR

471 lbs C&C
@ ea. rafter
Overview

• Wind
• Calculating Wind Loads
• Uplift
• Wall Design
• Diaphragms
• Shearwalls
Designing Wood Walls
Wind Loads
Uniform surface wind loads generally increase with building height

If wind loads vary with building height,

common to use higher wind load over
a single story or building
ASCE 7-10 Fig. 27-6.1
Wall Design Considerations
Panels
Hinges
L/d Ratio
Unbraced Length
Wall Veneer
Wind only loading C&C
Design Properties
 Loads into WSP
Wind loads are transferred to wall framing studs through wood
structural panels (sheathing)
SDPWS Table 3.2.1

For ASD Capacity: Divide Nominal Capacity by 1.6

For LRFD Capacity: Multiply Nominal Capacity by 0.85
Which wall is going to withstand high winds?

TOP
PLATE

L/D < 50
2x6: 22’-11”
2x4: 14’-7”
Gable End Wall Hinge
 Gable End Bracing Details
• AWC’s Wood Frame Construction Manual
 Gable End Bracing Details
• Gable end wall and roof framing may require cross bracing
 Full Height Studs at Gable End Walls

• If no openings in gable end wall exist, can design studs to span from
floor/foundation to roof (varying stud heights). May require closer
stud spacings at taller portions of wall
Gable End Walls with Openings
Gable End Walls with Openings
 Gable End Wall Girts & Jambs

Horizontally Vertically
spanning spanning
girts jambs

• Often gable end walls are locations of large windows

• Horizontally spanning member in plane of wall breaks stud length, provides allowable
opening
Determining Unbraced Length

What is the unbraced

length, lu ?
Strong & weak axis
Gypsum & Weak Axis Buckling
NDS Commentary:
“Experience has shown that any
code allowed thickness of gypsum
board, hardwood plywood, or
other interior finish adequately
fastened directly to studs will
provide adequate lateral support
of the stud across its thickness
irrespective of the type or
thickness of exterior sheathing
and/or finish used.”
Intermediate Wall Stud Blocking
Calculating Deflection – IBC Table 1604.3
For Δ of most brittle finishes use l/240
For C&C pressures a 30% load reduction is allowed for Δ only (IBC
Table 1604.3 footnote f)

f. The wind load is permitted to be taken as 0.42 times the "component and
cladding” loads for the purpose of determining deflection limits herein.
Wood Studs with Brick Veneer - Deflection
IBC Table 1604.3: min. wall deflection with brittle finishes = L/240
Brick Industry Association recommends much stricter limits
Structure Magazine May 2008 article, Harold Sprague
BIA Tech Note 28
 Example: Large Diamond Retailer
22’ tall wood framed walls.
Assume studs 16” o.c.
130 mph Exposure B
Least Horizontal Dim. = 64 ft.
External Pressure Coefficients – Wall Zones 4 & 5

a = Lesser of:
• 10% least horizontal dimension (LHD) 64’*0.1 = 6.4’
• 0.4h = 0.4*22 = 8.8’.
But not less than:
• 0.04 LHD=2.6’ or 3’

Use a = 6.4’ for zone 5

External Pressure Coefficients - Walls

Assume wall studs are 22’ long

EWA = h2/3 = 161 ft2
Zone 4:
GCpf = -0.89
GCpi = -0.18 (Table 26.11-1)
Zone 5:
GCpf = -1.0

ASCE 7-10 Figure 30.4-1

Running the numbers – Zone 4
• GCpf: 0.89 (Figure 30.4-1)
• GCpi: 0.18 (Table 26.11-1)
• qh = 0.00256KzKztKdV2
§ Kh : 0.70 - Table 30.3-1
§ Kzt : 1.00 - Figure 26.8-1
§ Kd : 0.85 - Table 26.6-1
§ V: 130 mph
• qh = 25.74psf
• p = 25.74psf(0.89+0.18) = 27.54psf
• 0.6W = 0.6(27.54) = 16.52psf
Lumber Design Properties

Design Properties from

NDS Supplement.

Assume 2x8 Douglas Fir-

Larch #2 Studs, 16” o.c.
Repetitive Member
adjustment = 1.25
Size Factor = 1.2
Duration of Load = 1.6
Stud Repetitive Member Factor
Note on stud repetitive member factor:
NDS section 4.3.9: CR = 1.15
SDPWS Table 3.1.1.1 larger CR factors for studs in bending, 16”
spacing max increased to 24” in 2015 SDPWS), interior covered
with min. ½” gypsum, exterior covered with min. 3/8” WSP,
other fastener requirements
DESIGN PROPERTIES
Fb (psi) 900 NDS Supp. Table 4A
CD 1.6 NDS Table 2.3.2
CR 1.25 SDPWS Table 3.1.1
CF 1.2 NDS Supp. Table 4A
E (psi) 1600000 NDS Supp. Table 4A
Sx (in3) 13.1 Calculated NDS 3.3-4
I (in4) 47.6 Calculated NDS 3.3-3
 So is our stud going to work?

Two of the most critical design parameters are

bending and deflection.

IBC Table 1604.3

footnote f

Studs work!
Running the numbers – Zone 5
• GCp: 1.00 (Figure 30.4-1)
• GCpi: 0.18 (Table 26.11-1)
• qh = 0.00256KzKztKdV2
§ Kh : 0.70 - Table 30.3-1
§ Kzt : 1.00 - Figure 26.8-1
§ Kd : 0.85 - Table 26.6-1
§ V: 130 mph
• qh = 25.74psf
• p = 25.74psf(1.0+0.18) = 30.37psf
• 0.6W = 0.6(30.37) = 18.22psf
 What about corner zones?

IBC Table 1604.3

footnote f

Deflection check no good – solution: reduce loads on each stud

 12” Stud Spacing

Since stud depth cannot be increased consider

reducing stud spacing to 12” in all Zone 5 areas:

IBC Table 1604.3

footnote f

Studs work! – Use 2x8 @ 16” o.c. typical, use 2x8 @ 12” o.c. in corners (Zone 5 areas)
Wall Design Considerations
For tall walls while it is less likely for
D, L, S
combined bending and axial to control
• Main Wind Force Loads may be
utilized
• Load combinations (ASCE 7 Chpt 2)
for: W

§ wind + dead or
§ dead + 0.75 live + 0.75 roof live
(or snow)
Wall Design Considerations
For other design issues see the article:
• Considerations in Wind Design of Wood Structures
• Free download from AWC available at:
http://www.awc.org/pdf/codes-standards/publications/archives/AWC-
Considerations-0310.pdf
Wall Stud Design Aid
Western Wood Products Association (WWPA) Design Suite:
http://www.wwpa.org/TECHGUIDE/DesignSoftware/tabid/859/Default.aspx
Overview

• Wind
• Calculating Wind Loads
• Uplift
• Wall Design
• Diaphragms
• Shearwalls
Diaphragm Design
Wind Load Distribution to Diaphragm

WIND INTO DIAPHRAGMS

WIND SURFACE LOADS ON WALLS

Wind Load Paths

WIND INTO DIAPHRAGMS AS

UNIFORM LINEAR LOADS
 Wind Load Paths

WIND INTO
DIAPHRAGMS SPAN SHEARWALLS AS
BETWEEN CONCENTRATED
SHEARWALLS LOADS
Stud to Diaphragm

DIAPHRAGM
SHEATHING

FLOOR JOIST

WIND Floor/Roof framing

LOAD perpendicular to walls
Stud to Diaphragm
FLOOR JOIST

DIAPHRAGM BLOCKING
SHEATHING

Floor/Roof framing
WIND
parallel to walls (add
LOAD
blocking)
 Visual Cue
Visual Cue: Floor Beam in Plan = Diaphragm in Elevation

Floor Beam

Floor Joists

Floor Beam

Floor Joists

Floor Beam
Floor Framing Plan
 Visual Cue
Visual Cue: Floor Beam in Plan = Diaphragm in Elevation

Diaphragm

Wall Studs

Diaphragm

Wall Studs

Foundation
Wall Framing Elevation
 Floor - Bending Member
• Simply Supported Member: loading causes compression in one
edge of member, tension in other edge

Loading direction

Compression edge

Reaction Tension edge Reaction

Diaphragm – Bending Member

Tension edge

Compression
edge
 Wind Load Path - Lateral
• Diaphragm acts like a deep beam.
• Sheathing carries
shear forces
• Chords have
T & C forces
• Rim board
transfers
DIAPHRAGM

shear
Unblocked Diaphragm
Blocked Diaphragm
Chord Forces
SPLICE IN
RIM BOARD

TENSILE FORCE

LAP IN TOP PLATE

PROVIDES CONT.
TENSILE RESISTANCE
Example: Retail Restaurant
Assume Basic Wind Speed = 115 mph Ultimate
Exposure B
Diaphragm Design
• Capacity

Shearwall Design
• Conventional
• Force Transfer Around Opening
• Perforated Shearwall
 Retail Restaurant – Diaphragm Design
Critical Shearwall at front of building
Check Diaphragm for wind loads on 84’ wall

84’
24’ 5’ 29’ 6’ 8’ 10’

6’
4’
6’
6’ 34’
6’
6’

3’ 3’
 Retail Restaurant – Diaphragm Design
Critical Shearwall at front of building
Check Diaphragm for wind loads on 84’ wall

84’
24’ 5’ 29’ 6’ 8’ 10’

6’
4’
6’
6’ 34’
6’
6’

3’ 3’
Diaphragm Aspect Ratios

SDPWS TABLE 4.2.4

TYPE - MAXIMUM LENGTH/WIDTH RATIO

Wood structural panel, unblocked 3:1

Wood structural panel, blocked 4:1
Single-layer straight lumber sheathing 2:1
Single-layer diagonal lumber sheathing 3:1
Double-layer diagonal lumber sheathing 4:1

For an 84 x 34 diaphragm the aspect ratio is 2.5 < 3.

Diaphragm aspect ratio is OK.
 Calculating MWFRS Wind Loads
Calculate wind pressure using Directional Method (ASCE 7 Chpt 27)
p = qh[(GCpf)-(GCpi)]
qh = 0.00256*0.57*1.0*0.85*1152*1 = 16.4 psf
GCpf = 0.85*[0.8 – (-0.3)] = 0.935
GCpi = 0.18 - 0.18 = 0
p = (16.4 psf)(0.935) = 15.34psf
0.6*W = 0.6*15.34 = 9.2 psf on walls
Use min 9.6 psf per ASCE 27.1.5

ASCE 7-10 Figure 27.4-1

 Parapet Design – Figure 27.6-2

At parapets windward
and leeward pressures
occur on each parapet.

Section 27.4.5: Pp = q(GCpn)

GCpn = 1.5 Windward parapet, -1.0 Leeward parapet
Windward Parapet GCpf is 1.5: 16.4*1.5*0.6 = 14.76 psf
Leeward Parapet GCpf is 1.0: 16.4*1.0*0.6 = 9.84 psf
Net Parapet = 14.76 + 9.84 = 24.6 psf
 Retail Restaurant – Diaphragm Design

P = (9.6psf*(5’+3’)+(24.6)*3’)*(84’/2) = 6,325 lb

84’
24’ 5’ 29’ 6’ 8’ 10’

6’
4’
6’ 3’
6’ 34’ 3’
6’
6’
10’

νdiaphragm = 6,325 lb/34’ νdiaphragm = 186 plf

Diaphragm Types

CASE 1 DIAPHRAGM
•Higher Shear Values
•Panels perpendicular
to floor framing for
improved performance

CASES 2-6 May be preferred

for low shear demand where
changing framing direction
helps
•HVAC runs
•Fire Blocking/Draft Stopping

N-S 4x8 sheathing Roof Trusses

Diaphragm Types
SDPWS Tables 4.2A & B
 Diaphragm Capacity - SDPWS Chpt 4

• Capacities are Nominal: Modify by ASD reduction factor of 2, Modify

by LRFD multiplication factor of 0.8
• Capacity is reduced for species with Specific Gravity < 0.5
• For Spruce Pine Fir multiply by 0.92
 Diaphragm Capacity: SDPWS Table 4.2C

PANEL COMMON MINIMUM MINIMUM NAIL Case 1 All other

NAIL SIZE FASTENER NOMINAL WIDTH
GRADE OF FRAMING SPACING (No unblocked configurations
OR STAPLEf PENETRATION AT ALL edges or (Cases 2, 3, 4, 5
MEMBERS AT
LENGTH IN FRAMING ADJOINING PANEL
AND GAGE
PANEL continuous and 6)
EDGES AND
MINIMUM BOUNDARIESg EDGES joints parallel to
PANEL load)
THIICKNESS
Sheathing 8d (2½ “ x 1 3/8” 2 IN. 6 IN. 460 (Seismic) 340 (Seismic)
& single 0.131”) 645 (Wind) 475 (Wind)
floor 3IN. 6 IN. 510 (Seismic) 380 (Seismic)
715 (Wind) 530 (Wind)
7/16”

Capacity is reduced for species with Specific Gravity < 0.5.

For Spruce Pine Fir multiply by 0.92

Capacity = (645 plf)(0.92)/2 = 297 plf

297 plf > 186 plf, diaphragm is adequate with sheathing & fastening as shown above
Transferring Diaphragm Shear Forces

UPPER WALL
BLOCK TO
TRANSFER
FORCES
 Transferring Diaphragm Shear Forces

PARAPET
BLOCK TO
TRANSFER
FORCES

NOTE: PARAPET KICKERS MAY BE

REQUIRED FOR TALL TRUSS
PARAPETS
 Transferring Diaphragm Shear Forces

SHEAR FORCE
FROM DIAPHRAGM

RIM JOIST PROVIDES

DIAPHRAGM LOAD
TRANSFER

SHEAR WALL
BELOW
 Diaphragm to Shearwall Fastener

RIM FLOOR JOIST

BOARD

METAL CLIPS
TOENAIL FOR ADD’L
150 plf (ASD) STRENGTH
LIMIT
IN SDC D, E, F TOP PLATE
(SDPWS 4.1.7)
 Roof Diaphragm to Shearwall

DIAPHRAGM

BLOCKING TRANSFERS
SHEAR FORCES FROM
ROOF DIAPHRAGM TO
TRUSS

TRUSS TO WALL
CONNECTION
COMPLETES LOAD PATH
SHEARWALL
Roof Diaphragm to Shearwall
DIAPHRAGM

BLOCKING TO
TRANSFER SHEAR
FORCES

SHEARWALL
 Diaphragm Flexibility
• Diaphragms can be idealized as flexible, semi-rigid, or
rigid
• ASCE 7-10 Section 26.2 states that diaphragms
constructed of wood structural panels are permitted to
be idealized as flexible

Wood Education Institute

 Diaphragm Flexibility
Some building layouts may require diaphragm design to account
for cantilevers, or open front structures.
• Trends in mid-rise, multi-family buildings toward fewer
exterior shear walls move into semi-rigid & rigid modeling

Cant.

Offset shear walls

SW SW SW SW SW

Corridor only shear walls

SW SW SW SW SW

No exterior
Shear walls
Diaphragms of Open Front Structures
Examples of Open Front Structures per 2015 SDPWS Figure 4A
 Open Front Structures (SDPWS 4.2.5)
• Can idealize diaphragm as rigid if max. in-plane diaphragm
deflection is ≤ 2x avg. story drift of vertical elements
• If not idealizing as flexible or rigid, may use semi-rigid analysis,
distributes shear based on relative stiffness of both diaphragm
and vertical resisting elements
• Common to use envelope analysis in lieu of semi-rigid analysis
• 2015 SDPWS: Diaphragm Cantilever ≤ 35 feet

Additional Considerations:
• L/W Ratio
• Irregularities & Torsional Effects
• Diaphragm deflections, especially at corners
Shearwall & Diaphragm Deflection
When calculating shearwall and diaphragm deflections, values of
apparent shear stiffness, Ga, are required, but are not provided
for wind design in SDPWS
 Shearwall & Diaphragm Deflection
AWC FAQ: Can the effective shear stiffness values, Ga, in
SDPWS be used for calculation of diaphragm and shear wall
deflections due to wind loads?

Values of apparent shear stiffness, Ga, are tabulated in seismic

columns of the SDPWS to facilitate calculation of seismic story
drift in accordance with ASCE 7 Minimum Design Loads for
Buildings and Other Structures. Values of Ga are equally
applicable for calculation of the shear deformation component
of total deflection due to wind loads up to the ASD wind unit
shear value calculated as vw/2.0. This level of unit shear for wind
is identical to 1.4 times the ASD seismic unit shear capacity for
which apparent shear stiffness values were originally developed.
http://awc.org/faqs/general/can-the-effective-shear-stiffness-values-ga-in-special-design-provisions-for-
wind-and-seismic-%28sdpws%29-be-used-for-calculation-of-diaphragm-and-shear-wall-deflections-due-
to-wind-loads
Overview

• Wind
• Calculating Wind Loads
• Uplift
• Wall Design
• Diaphragms
• Shearwalls
Wind Load Distribution to Shearwalls

WIND INTO
WIND INTO DIAPHRAGMS SHEARWALLS

WIND SURFACE LOADS ON WALLS

Shearwalls

WOOD
STUDS
WSP
SHEATHING

HOLD-DOWN
ANCHOR
BOLTS
 WSP Shearwall Capacity
• Capacities listed in AWC’s Special Design
Provisions for Wind and Seismic (SDPWS)
• Sheathed shear walls most common. Can also
use horizontal and diagonal board sheathing,
gypsum panels, fiberboard, lath and plaster, and
others
• Blocked shear walls most common. SDPWS has
reduction factors for unblocked shear walls
• Note that capacities are given as nominal: must
be adjusted by a reduction or resistance factor
to determine allowable unit shear capacity
(ASD) or factored unit shear resistance (LRFD)
Shearwall Capacity - SDPWS Chpt 4
Shearwall Functions

Wind Loads create shear (sliding) and racking

forces on a structure

Sliding resisted by shearwall base anchorage

Racking resisted by shear panel & fasteners
 Shear Wall Components: Wall Framing

Strut/collector
Wall Top
Plates

Wall Framing
(Studs)

Blocking Between
Wall Sole Plate
Studs at All Panel
Edges

Note: Can use “un-blocked” wall but capacities can be significantly lower:
SDPWS 4.3.3
Racked Shearwall

EDGE NAILING
PROVIDES RACKING
RESISTANCE
 Shear Wall Components: WSP & Fasteners
Strut/collector

Boundary Nailing –
Typ. 2” – 6” o.c.

Field or Intermediate
Nailing – Typ. 12”
o.c.
Sheathing Panels
OSB or Plywood

Field or Intermediate Nailing: Attaches panel to intermediate wall framing (studs)

not along panel edges
Boundary Nailing: Attaches all 4 edges of every panel to wall framing (studs,
blocking, top & sole plates)
Panel Fasteners
Shearwalls

PREVENT ANCHOR BOLTS

SLIDING! TO FOUNDATION
Shearwalls - Overturning
Due to cantilever nature of shearwalls,
overturning forces are also generated

Overturning forces are resisted by tension/compression couple –

tension portion resisted by dead loads and hold down anchors
Floor - Cantilever Member

Tension edge

Compression
edge
 Shearwall - Cantilever Member
Compression
edge

Tension edge
Hold-Downs Resist End Uplift

HOLD-DOWNS
 Shear Wall Components: Base Anchorage,
End Posts & Hold Downs
Strut/collector

Wall End Posts

(Sized for Tension
& Compression)

Sole Plate Uniform

Anchorage (Nails,
Screws, Anchor Wall End Post &
Bolts) Hold Down

Sole Plate Uniform Anchorage: Transfers shear from wall sole plate to
floor/wall or foundation below.
Wall End Post & Hold Down: Transfers vertical tension & compression forces
to floor/wall or foundation below.
 Shearwall Hold Downs
Bucket Style

Source: strongtie.com

Source: DartDesignInc.com
Shearwall Hold Downs
Straps

Source: strongtie.com
 Shearwall Hold Downs

Source: cteg.com

Continuous
Rod Tie Downs
with Shrinkage
Compensation
Devices Source: hardyframe.com
 Shearwall Placement - Symmetrical

IN THIS CASE DRAG STRUTS CARRY LITTLE LOAD

LEEWARD
WINDWARD

SHEARWALLS

TOP PLATE – NTS

DRAG STRUT
 Shearwall Placement – Large Drag Struts
IN THIS CASE DRAG STRUTS TRANSFER LEEWARD LOAD
LEEWARD
WINDWARD

TOP PLATE – NTS

SHEARWALLS DRAG STRUT
 Drag Struts & Isolated Walls

IN SOME CASES DOUBLE TOP PLATE IS INADEQUATE

WHAT TO WATCH FOR:

• ISOLATED SW WITH HEAVY
NAILING
• NO SHEARWALLS WITHIN 10’
OF WALL CORNER
Lateral Force Resisting System
 Shearwalls in a Line - Stiffness
• Wind loads to multiple shearwalls in the same line are distributed
based on shearwall stiffness
• If walls have the same framing & sheathing, assumed to have the
same per-foot stiffness & loads are distributed based on wall length
• Eg. 5’ long wall receives 5/(5+12) = 29% of total load
12’ long wall receives 12/(5+12) = 71% of total load

SHEARWALL LENGTHS
DETERMINE STIFFNESS &
12’ 5’ LOAD SHARING
 Shearwall Aspect Ratio
NDS SDPWS TABLE 4.3.4
MAXIMUM SHEAR WALL DIMENSION RATIOS

Wood structural panels, blocked For other than seismic:

3½:11
For seismic: 2:11 H
Wood structural panels, unblocked 2:1

Diagonal sheathing, single 2:1

L

Structural Fiberboard 3½:13 AR = H/L

Gypsum board, portland cement plaster 2:12

See SDPWS Table 4.3.4 for footnotes

 Engineered Shear Wall Systems w/ WSP

Solid or Segmented
Walls

Force Transfer Around

Perforated Walls Openings Walls
 Retail Restaurant – Shearwall Design
P = 7,602 lb – from diaphragm calcs using Directional Method
Let’s see what happens when we use Envelope Method to
calculate MWFRS loads to front shearwall

84’
24’ 5’ 29’ 6’ 8’ 10’
3’
6’ 3’
4’
6’
6’ 34’
6’ 10’
6’

P
 Calculating MWFRS Wind Loads
Calculate wind pressure using Envelope Method (ASCE 7 Chpt 28)
p = qh[(GCpf)-(GCpi)]
qh = 0.00256*0.70*1.0*0.85*1152*1 = 20.14 psf
GCpf (Zones 1 & 4) = 0.4 – (-0.29) = 0.69 (ASCE 7 Fig. 28.4-1)
GCpf (Zones 1E & 4E) = 0.61 – (-0.43) = 1.04 (ASCE 7 Fig. 28.4-1)
GCpi = 0.18 - 0.18 = 0
P1&4 = (20.14 psf)(0.69) = 13.9 psf; 0.6*W = 0.6*13.9 = 8.3 psf walls typ.
P1E&4E = (20.14 psf)(1.04) = 20.9 psf; 0.6*W = 0.6*20.9 = 12.5 psf walls crnr

ASCE 7-10 Figure 28.4-1

 Calculating MWFRS Wind Loads
a = Lesser of:
• 10% least horizontal dimension (LHD) 34’*0.1 = 3.4’
• 0.4h = 0.4*13’ = 5.2’.
But not less than:
• 0.04 LHD=1.4’ or 3’

Use a = 3.4’ for zones 1E & 4E

2a = 3.4’*2 = 6.8’

ASCE 7-10 Figure 28.4-1

 Parapet Design – Section 28.4.2

At parapets windward
and leeward pressures
occur on each parapet.

Section 28.4.2: Pp = q(GCpn)

GCpn = 1.5 Windward parapet, -1.0 Leeward parapet
Windward Parapet GCpf is 1.5: 20.14*1.5*0.6 = 18.12 psf
Leeward Parapet GCpf is 1.0: 20.14*1.0*0.6 = 12.08 psf
Net Parapet = 18.12 + 12.08 = 30.2 psf
 Retail Restaurant – Shearwall Design
P = (8.3psf*(5’+3’)+(30.2)*3’)*(84’/2) + ((12.5psf-
8.3psf)*(5’+3’))*6.8’*(77.2’/84’) = 6,804 lb
(for comparison: Directional method gave us 6,325 lb)
84’
24’ 5’ 29’ 6’ 8’ 10’

6’
4’ 3’
6’
3’
6’ 34’
6’
6’ 10’

77.2’ 6.8’
8.3 psf 12.5 psf
 Shearwall Aspect Ratios
• Check Aspect Ratios: Assume blocked WSP Shearwall
• 10’/2’ = 5 > 3.5; Inadequate
• 10’/6’ = 1.67 < 3.5; OK

34’
3’
3’

10’
10’

2’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 2’

Front Wall Elevation

 Shearwall Aspect Ratios
• Check Aspect Ratios: Assume blocked WSP Shearwall
• 10’/2’ = 5 > 3.5; Inadequate
• 10’/6’ = 1.67 < 3.5; OK
νshearwall = 6,804 lb/ 12’ = 567 plf
34’
3’
3’

10’
10’

2’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 2’
 Conventional Shearwall Capacities
νshearwall = 567 plf

Assume 15/32”, Structural I sheathing attached with 8d nails

Nominal Tabulated Capacity = 1540 plf

Adjusted ASD Capacity = (1370 plf)(0.92)/2 = 630 plf
630 plf > 567 plf, OK
8d nails at 3” o.c. acceptable
PANEL GRADE FASTENER MINIMUM MINIMUM NAIL SPACING PANEL EDGE
TYPE & PANEL FASTENER AT ALL PANEL FASTENER SPACING
SIZE THIICKNESS PENETRATION EDGES
IN FRAMING

Wood Structural 8d (2½ “ x 15/32” 1 3/8” 3 IN. 980 (Seismic)

Panels – 0.131”) 1370 (Wind)
Sheathing

SDPWS Table 4.3A

 Design Table Details – 16” o.c. Studs
• Space fasteners 12 inches on center on
intermediate supports (SDPWS 4.3.7.1.3)

• If nail spacing is 2” o.c. use 3 inch nominal

framing (SDPWS 4.3.7.1.4)

• If 10d nails are utilized along with 3 inch o.c.

edge nailing use nominal 3x framing
(SDPWS 4.3.7.1.4)

• If nominal unit shear on either side of wall

exceeds 700 plf in SDC D, E, or F, use
nominal 3x framing (SDPWS 4.3.7.1.4)
 Conventional Shearwall Overturning
νshearwall = 567 plf
Hold downs required at shearwalls
T = νh
T = 567 plf*10’ = 5,670 lb
Hold down capacity = 7,045 lb
Many available prefabricated hold downs
with capacities listed by manufacturers
34’

10’

2’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 2’
Hold-Down Anchor
 Conventional Shearwall Overturning
νshearwall = 567 plf
Posts are also required at ends of the wall to resist compression forces
C = T = νh
C = 567 plf*10’ = 5,670 lb
Size post for bearing on wall sole plate
Assume 2x6 wall,
Required post width =
5,670 lb/(565 psi)(5.5 in) = 1.8 in;
Use 2-2x6 post min.

10’

2’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 2’
 Conventional Shearwall Base Anchorage
• νshearwall = 567 plf
• ½” Anchor Bolt capacity for wood bearing = 680 lb*1.6 = 1,088 lb
per NDS Table 11E
• Spacing = 1088 lb/567 plf = 1’-11” o.c. max.
Hold-Downs: Segmented v. Perforated
Segmented Shearwall

Perforated Shearwall
 Perforated Shear Wall Method
Fewer hold downs required, shear capacity is reduced

WSP
SHEATHING

HOLD DOWNS
AT END OF
WALL

Uniform uplift at base of wall required – magnitude = shear force – SDPWS 4.3.6.4.2.1
 Perforated Shearwall Design
• Check Aspect Ratios: Assume blocked WSP Shearwall
• 10’/2’ = 5 > 3.5; Inadequate
• 10’/6’ = 1.67 < 3.5; OK
Use only full height sheathed sections to resist shear
νshearwall = 6,804 lb/ 12’ = 567 plf
34’
3’
3’

10’
10’

2’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 2’

Total Perforated Shearwall

 Perforated Shearwall Capacity
Wall has 12’/18’ = 67% full height sheathing, max. opening H = 6’-8”
Multiply capacity by 0.75 for opening 2H/3
Reduced capacity is 630 plf*0.75 = 473 plf < 567 plf, Inadequate
SDPWS Table 4.3.3.5
 Perforated Shearwall Capacity
νshearwall = 567 plf

Try reducing nail spacing to 2” with 8d nails – will require 3x framing

Nominal Tabulated Capacity = 1790 plf

Adjusted ASD Capacity = (1790 plf)(0.92)(0.75)/2 = 618 plf
618 plf > 567 plf, OK
8d nails at 2” o.c. acceptable for perforated wall
PANEL GRADE FASTENER MINIMUM MINIMUM NAIL SPACING PANEL EDGE
TYPE & PANEL FASTENER AT ALL PANEL FASTENER SPACING
SIZE THIICKNESS PENETRATION EDGES
IN FRAMING

Wood Structural 8d (2½ “ x 15/32” 1 3/8” 2 IN. 1280 (Seismic)

Panels – 0.131”) 1790 (Wind)
Sheathing

SDPWS Table 4.3A

 Perforated Shearwall Overturning
νshearwall = 567 plf
Hold downs required at ends of perforated wall
T = νh/Co
T = 567 plf*10’/0.75 = 7,560 lb
Hold down capacity from segmented wall
option = 7,045 lb, Inadequate – need to select
higher capacity hold down
34’

10’

2’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 2’
 Perforated Shearwall Uplift
νshearwall = 567 plf/0.75 = 756 plf, use same magnitude for uniform uplift
at full height segments
One option is to use anchor bolts with large washers to resist uplift in
bearing
If net washer area = 8 in2, can resist (565 psi)(8 in2) = 4,520 lb in uplift
• Max. anchor bolt spacing = 4,520 lb/756 plf = 5’-11” o.c.
• Will also need to check shear loads on anchor bolts for controlling
case
34’

10’

2’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 6’ 2’
Force Transfer Around Opening (FTAO)

WSP
SHEATHING

HOLD DOWNS
AT ENDS OF
WHOLE WALL
Force Transfer Around Opening (FTAO)
FTAO Shearwalls Methodologies
• Shearwall design methodology which accounts for sheathed
portions of wall above and below openings (perforated neglects)
• Openings accounted for by reinforcing edges using strapping or
framing
• SDPWS 4.3.5.2 provides specific requirements
• H/L ratio defined by wall pier
• Min. wall pier width = 2’-0”
• Reduced number of hold downs (only at ends of total wall)

• There are 3 main methods of FTAO analysis; SDPWS does not

require one particular method be used, only that design is
“based on a rational analysis”
• Drag Strut, Cantilever Beam, & Diekmann Design Options
FTAO Shearwalls
Drag Strut Design Methodology
• Forces are collected and concentrated into the areas above and
below the openings
• Strap forces are a function of opening and pier widths

APA Form M410

FTAO Shearwalls
Cantilever Beam Design Methodology
• Forces are treated as moment couples
• Segmented panels are piers at sides of openings
• Strap forces are a function of wall height above and below
openings and pier widths

APA Form M410

 FTAO Shearwalls
Diekmann Design Methodology
• Assumes wall behaves as monlithic truss or frame
• Internal forces resolved via principles of statics
• Wall sections on all sides of opening are assumed to have a point
of inflection at mid length, producing no force in the inner
chords of the sections

APA Form M410

 FTAO Shearwall Design Aid
RISA Technologies design
software includes an
option to design FTAO
wood sheathed shearwallls
using finite element
analysis (FEM)

Images Source: RISA Technologies

Double-Sided Shearwalls
High-strength wood shear walls can be double-sided with
WSP sheathing on each side:
SDPWS 4.3.3.3 Summing Shear Capacities: For shear walls
sheathed with the same construction and materials on
opposite sides of the same wall, the combined nominal
unit shear capacity shall be permitted to be taken as twice
the nominal unit shear capacity for an equivalent shear
wall sheathed on one side (4.3.5.3 has max capacities for
double-sided perforated walls)
Double-Sided Shearwalls
There is also an option to have a single sided, double
sheathed shearwall.
Testing and report by APA
conclude that it is permissible to
use the capacity of the wall the
same as if there was one layer of
WSP on each side of the wall
provided that a number of criteria
are met including:
• Framing members at panel
joints are 3x or 2-2x
• Minimum nail spacing is 4”
• Others
Open Front & Narrow Walls
 Using Prefab Shearwalls

Considerations:
Engineered Narrow Wall
Section
Proprietary
Large Hold-down forces
Deflections
Hybrid Wood/Steel Prefab Shearwalls

Source: hardyframe.com
 Prefab Wall Aspect Ratios
• Aspect Ratio Inadequate
• 10’/2’ = 5 > 3.5
• V = 6,804 lb
• Let’s try a prefab shearwall

34’
3’
3’

10’
10’

2’ 30’ 2’
 Prefab Shearwall Capacities
LOAD IS = 6,804 lb

3,660 lb * 2 panels = 7,320 lb

Prefab Shearwall Anchorage
Prefab Shearwall Anchorage
Prescriptive Portal Frame Systems
Prescriptive Code Portal Frames Proprietary Portal
IBC 2308.9.3.2 Frames

• Senior Living
• Apartments/Condos
• Mixed Use
• Student Housing
• Affordable Housing
• Hotels

Where Wood is a viable option, it’s likely

the most appropriate choice.

Source: strongtie.com
 Prescriptive Portal Frame Systems

• Senior Living
• Apartments/Condos
• Mixed Use
• Student Housing
• Affordable Housing
Allowable Design Shear
Values
Min.
• Hotels
Max. Shear
Width Height (lb)
(in.) (ft.)
8
Where Wood is a viable option, it’s likely
850
16 the most appropriate choice.
10 625
8 1,675
24
10 1,125 APA Report TT-100F
Gypsum Shearwalls
• Lower capacities than WSP Shearwalls (about 1/3 capacity)
• SDPWS Table 4.3C, Section 4.3.7.5 provides capacities &
requirements
• Not permitted in SDC E or F
WSP Shearwalls Over Gypsum
• Fire resistance rated walls may require gypsum board on
each side
• SDPWS Table 4.3B provides shearwall capacities for walls
with WSP installed over ½“ or 5/8” gypsum board
• Rule of thumb: same capacities as without gypsum can
be obtained if fastener length increased (go up one nail
size; i.e. if 8d without gypsum, use 10d with gypsum).

Gypsum board
each side of wall
WSP installed
over gypsum Wall Framing
board

Wall Section
Recap

• Wind
• Calculating Windspeeds
• Uplift
• Wall Design
• Diaphragms
• Shearwalls
Questions?
This concludes The
American Institute of
Architects Continuing
Education Systems
Course

Visit www.woodworks.org for more educational materials,

case studies, design examples, a project gallery, and more
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