The new code changes the minimum reinforcing requirements in slabs including footings. The previous code allowed for a minimum steel ratio between 0.14% to 0.18% of the concrete volume, depending on rebar grade. The new code sets a baseline minimum reinforcing of 0.18% of the volume of concrete. This code change may result in more slab and footing reinforcing than previous codes.
One of the most impactful changes in the new code is the reduction of one-way shear strength. In many cases, the new code reduces the one-way shear strength by 50%. This new code change will increase the thickness of some concrete footings, walls, and slabs
The newest structural conrete code adopted by the 2021 IBC contains many significant changes. Concrete shear walls in high seismic areas may be thicker, longer, and/or more heavily reinforced than previous code requirements.
Mass Timber assemblies typically utilize steel connections. Given the inherent moisture in mass timber, it's crucial to ensure all steel components—interior and exterior—are corrosion-resistant through galvanization or powder coating. Protecting these connections extends the life and safety of your design.
If your mass timber members are designed with a char rating for fire protection, then all connections must also carry the same rating. This means all steel connecting elements should be either concealed within the char layer or coated with intumescent paint.
Mass Timber structures can be classified as Type III, Type IV, or Type V construction, each with different fire resistance criteria that will affect the size of the structural members. Selecting your construction type early in the design process is essential to design the mass timber elements correctly.
Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) Panels are beautiful but do not provide a durable walking surface because they are made of softwood. Adding a gypcrete or concrete topping slab is a common solution to provide a durable walking surface. The topping slab also decreases sound transmission and floor vibrations.
Cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels are commonly fabricated in 10-foot widths and 5-foot increments in length. This means that column grids should be spaced on a 10-foot module in one direction (20 feet or 30 feet) to save money and eliminate waste.
We've had record-high snowfall this year. As structural engineers, many people have contacted us asking how the snow will affect the roofs of their buildings. This year the snow on some roofs could be above the design snow load. If you are worried about your roof, having the snow removed will reduce stress (physically from the roof and mentally for you).
Align cladding joints in veneer with metal stud slip planes at each floor level to ensure each level of studs and cladding moves together.
When using metal studs with a rainscreen application, a 16 gauge (54 mil) minimum stud is recommended. This heavier gauge is necessary because rainscreen panels and tracks typically only load the studs at concentrated points.
