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Performance of metal plate connected wood truss roof system during Hurricane Andrew

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Abstract
Metal plate connected wood truss systems are the prevalent structural roof systems for residential construction in urban South Floridaa. Roof systems built of mpc'ed wood trusses were examained in the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew. Structures surveyed were in the areas sustaining heavy damage, as well as in locations away from the main storm corridor. The survey included mostly residential roof structures, aand to a lesser extent commercial and industrial roof structures. Collected field data are examined and observations are made on predominant failure mode patterns encountered over the area surveyed. Building code provisions for wood frame construction are assessed, as they relate to wood roof systems in Dade County area. A discussion is made on several factors affecting the overall integrity of the roof assembly, such as roof shape and pitch, sheathing nailing schedules, redundant permanent cross bracing and internal overpressure resulting from breaches in the shell. Findings of this study indicate that a substantial amount of material losses could have been prevented by building compliance with local regulations. Revised construction practices, rigorous contractor education and proper code enforcement are suggested as simple, feasible and economical meqsures to reduce solial losses to an acceptable level in the event of a major hurricane in the future. Recommendations are outlined to improve the performce of the roof assembly under extreme wind loading conditions for coastal areas of the United States.
Date
3/1993
Author(s)
R Riba; M Triche; C Hoover
Page(s)
632-
Keyword(s)
Hurricane Andrew; wood truss; metal plate connectors; design; winddd


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