Well stated, ChorasDen.
As mentioned earlier, another design issue is published fastener and connector adjustments factors for G less than 0.42. While preparing for VT short courses, I reached out to two of the leading fastener and connector manufacturers and they kindly sent the information...
As a point of information, the lumber listed in Table 4G from around the world is graded and manufactured to the same PS 20 American Softwood Lumber Standard that is referenced in our U.S. building codes (IRC and IBC).
I understand your concern. We covered these issues in our VT May short course and suggested a way to make a more robust lumber specification in your plans. Assuming you used and want to specify 2x4 wall lumber listed in the NDS Supp. Table 4A, instead of using the typical spec such as this:
"All...
A simple specification such as No.2 KD-19 XYZ-species may no longer clearly communicate to other parties what products and design values were assumed and used by the RDP in their design work and thus required for the project. For example, see 2024 NDS Supplement, new Table 4G, starting on p. 63...
Due to additional grade-marked products entering the U.S. from other countries over the past 20 years, a simple specification such as No.2 KD-19 XYZ-species may no longer clearly communicate to other parties what products and design values were assumed and used by the RDP in their design work...
Based on the code referenced AWPA U1-2016 Standard, TABLE 2-1, Footnote 1, the answer is no.
Footnote 1: Joists and beams shall be treated to requirements for UC4A when they are difficult to maintain, repair or replace and are critical to the performance and safety of the entire...
