The basics of wood frame connection design

Wood’s strength depends on the direction of the grain. The technical term for this variance is “orthotropic,” which means having different strengths in three planes perpendicular to each other. An easy way to understand the orthotropic strength properties of wood: Visualize a tree trunk as structurally similar to a bundle of drinking straws. Push on the long ends of a bundle of straws, and the straws can take a good amount of pressure and still stay in shape. But fold the straws in half, and they deform easily.

Like a bundle of straws, wood grain is strong in the longitudinal direction. Think of columns of peeled tree trunks holding up roof trusses as a classic example of this longitudinal strength. However, wood is not as strong when loaded perpendicular to the grain. Like the straw example, the direction opposite to a tree trunk’s vertical growth is wood’s weakest. Too much tension perpendicular to the grain pulls wood fibers apart and can lead to catastrophic failure. Notching, large diameter fasteners and hanging loads can all contribute to this kind of failure. On the other hand, structural designs that take advantage of wood’s longitudinal strength are economical, attractive and easier to design and detail.

Moisture and Environment

Wood is sensitive to moisture changes. It expands in moist or humid environments and shrinks in dry environments, so it is important to design connections that allow for movement. Connections that are not detailed correctly for wood shrinkage can cause splitting. Detailing connections with slotted holes allow wood movement without causing stresses perpendicular to the grain. Shrinkage of the wood can also result in loose connections, while swelling can deform connection hardware. Good wood connection design accounts for these natural tendencies. For illustrated guidance on detailing connections and avoiding common connection errors, download Glulam Connection Details, Form T300.

Exterior connections must drain moisture, as trapped moisture provides ideal conditions for fungal growth and decay. To last, exterior connections must be properly vented or drained. Avoid leaving wood in direct contact with concrete, masonry or grout, which are porous and wick moisture. One solution is to leave a 1/2-inch air gap between wood and these materials.

Harsh environments require corrosion-resistant connections. Wood treated with preservatives or fire retardants and wood in wet environments, especially salty ocean air, all require corrosion-resistant connections.

Spread Out the Load

It is better to use multiple small fasteners rather than one large fastener. Concentrated loads can overstress wood’s capacity. Rather than creating a concentrated load by using one large-diameter bolt, spread out the load and provide redundancy by using many small fasteners instead.

The Nitty-Gritty on Nails

Nails come in a wide variety of types and names, and to complicate matters, there is no standard for nail nomenclature. For example, pennyweight does not translate to interchangeability: a 10d common nail has a diameter of 0.148 inch, a 10d box nail has a diameter of 0.128 inch and a 10d sinker nail has a diameter of 0.120 inch. Avoid confusion and ensure correct nail size by specifying diameter and length, with an optional description of nail by pennyweight and type (e.g., 0.148” x 3” [10d common]).

For further details on best practices in wood connection design, watch “Connection Design Solutions for Wood.” AIA and ICC continuing education credits available.