Residential wind load design

[ChiefInspectorJeff]

I have read post on this forum regarding not using shear wall and diaphragm engineering on residential projects in high wind areas.Some designers are not providing drag struts or chords, not providing shear walls under diaphragm ends,using flexible diaphragms with no OM resistance, etc
What other method can be used to engineer a stick framed wood frame house? Has anyone ever designed a house a a large box beam?
Jeff

 

[KootK]

Can you link to the thread that you mention? Can you elaborate on this box beam method? Lateral support of light frame wood residential structures is overwhelmingly accomplished using plywood and gypsum diaphragms, both horizontal and vertical. There might be a steel moment frame in there someplace if it's a high end mini-mansion type of thing.

The greatest trick that bond stress ever pulled was convincing the world it didn't exist.

 

[EngineeringEric]

There is a prescriptive code in the IRC. based on braced wall lines and length of panels provided. Is this what we are talking about?

 

[ChiefInspectorJeff]

Guys,
There are design pros who don't believe in the shear wall/diaphragm model for residential design. They say that many loads are statically indeterminate and the force path is unpredictable.And this may be true due to field conditions materials and craftsmanship, and inadequate design theories.
I have seen hundreds of 2 story houses built with the 2nd floor falling over the middle of the garage below.There is no design provision for the OM, but the house stands and resist high winds.
Now my idea is to develop a new method of designing houses as box beams or channels.The slab floor can be utilized as a web. Can this be done?

 

[KootK]

Probably not but we love innovation. Sketch up your idea we'll be happy to help you vet it.

The greatest trick that bond stress ever pulled was convincing the world it didn't exist.