1720.3-2016 - Timber Structures - Residential Buildings

AS 1720.
3:2016
Timber structures
Part 3: Design criteria for timber-framed

residential buildings
This Australian Standard® was prepared by Committee TM-010, Timber Structures and
Framing. It was approved on behalf of the Council of Standards Australia on 13 June 2016.
This Standard was published on 29 June 2016.
The following are represented on Committee TM-010:
• Australian Building Codes Board

• Australian Institute of Building
• Building Research Association of New Zealand
• Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia
• Engineers Australia
• Forest and Wood Products Australia
• Forest Industries Federation, WA
• Frame & Truss Manufacturers Association Australia
• Glued Laminated Timber Association of Australia
• Housing Industry Association
• Housing SA
• Institution of Fire Engineers
• James Cook University
• Master Builders Australia
• Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, New Zealand
• New Zealand Timber Industry Federation
• Timber Development Association, NSW
• Timber Queensland
• University of Technology, Sydney
• Wood Processors & Manufacturers Association of New Zealand
This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR AS 1720.3:2015.
Standards Australia wishes to acknowledge the participation of the expert individuals that
contributed to the development of this Standard through their representation on the
Committee and through the public comment period.
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Standards Australia welcomes suggestions for improvements, and encourages readers to

notify us immediately of any apparent inaccuracies or ambiguities. Contact us via email at
[email protected], or write to Standards Australia, GPO Box 476, Sydney, NSW 2001.
AS 1720.3:2016
Australian Standard®
Timber structures
Part 3: Design criteria for timber-framed

residential buildings
Originated as AS 1684.1—1999.
Revised and redesignated as AS 1720.3:2016.
COPYRIGHT
© Standards Australia Limited
All rights are reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced or copied in any form or by
any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, without the written
permission of the publisher, unless otherwise permitted under the Copyright Act 1968.
Published by SAI Global Limited under licence from Standards Australia Limited, GPO Box
476, Sydney, NSW 2001, Australia
ISBN 978 1 76035 514 2
AS 1720.3:2016 2
PREFACE
This Standard was prepared by the Australian members of the Joint Standards Australia/
Standards New Zealand Committee TM-010, Timber Structures and Framing, to supersede
AS 1684.1—1999, Residential timber-framed construction, Part 1: Design criteria.
After consultation with stakeholders in both countries, Standards Australia and Standards
New Zealand decided to develop this Standard as an Australian Standard rather than an
Australian/New Zealand Standard.
The objective of this Standard is to provide users with the design criteria considered
suitable for the design of conventional timber-framed residential buildings, subject to the
requirements and limitations described in the Scope. Design criteria for the most commonly
used timber members are provided.
This revision continues to recognize the ongoing development of timber framing systems
and the need to cater for a widening variety of materials and design conditions. Significant
changes include—
(a) closer alignment with the relevant requirements of AS 1720.1;
(b) adoption of the nomenclature and relevant requirements of the AS/NZS 1170 series of
loading standards and, in particular, the recently revised edition of AS 4055;
(c) de-linking of this Standard from the timber member span tables components of
AS 1684.2, AS 1684.3 and AS 1684.4;
(d) inclusion of design criteria for additional members—wind beams;
(e) limitation to Class 1 and 10 buildings as defined by the National Construction Code—
Building Code of Australia;
(f) adjustment of the structural models used for joist and bearer design;
(g) removal of alternative characteristic beam shear strengths for F-grades; and
(h) correcting errors and addressing anomalies and inconsistencies.
Mandatory statements in notes and footnotes to tables are deemed to be requirements of this
Standard.
The term ‘normative’ ‘has been used in this Standard to define the application of the
appendix to which it applies. A ‘normative’ appendix is an integral part of a Standard.
3 AS 1720.3:2016
CONTENTS
Page
SECTION 1 SCOPE AND GENERAL

1.1 SCOPE AND APPLICATION ..................................................................................... 4
1.2 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS ................................................................................... 4
1.3 OTHER METHODS .................................................................................................... 5
1.4 BASIS FOR DESIGN .................................................................................................. 5
1.5 DEFINITIONS............................................................................................................. 8
1.6 NOTATION ............................................................................................................... 10
SECTION 2 DESIGN OF ROOF MEMBERS

2.1 ROOF BATTENS ...................................................................................................... 11
2.2 RAFTERS .................................................................................................................. 15
2.3 ROOF BEAMS—RIDGE OR INTERMEDIATE BEAMS ........................................ 20
2.4 UNDERPURLINS ..................................................................................................... 24
2.5 STRUTTING BEAMS ............................................................................................... 29
2.6 COUNTER STRUTTING BEAMS............................................................................ 32
2.7 COMBINED HANGING STRUTTING BEAMS ...................................................... 36
2.8 CEILING BATTENS ................................................................................................. 40
2.9 CEILING JOISTS ...................................................................................................... 43
2.10 HANGING BEAMS .................................................................................................. 47
2.11 COUNTER BEAMS .................................................................................................. 50
2.12 VERANDAH BEAMS ............................................................................................... 54
SECTION 3 DESIGN OF WALL MEMBERS

3.1 POSTS ....................................................................................................................... 60
3.2 LOADBEARING WALL STUDS ............................................................................. 63
3.3 WALL PLATES FOR LOADBEARING WALLS..................................................... 69
3.4 LINTELS ................................................................................................................... 75
3.5 WIND BEAMS .......................................................................................................... 82
SECTION 4 DESIGN OF FLOOR MEMBERS

4.1 FLOOR JOISTS ......................................................................................................... 86
4.2 BEARERS ................................................................................................................. 91
SECTION 5 DETERMINATION OF UPLIFT FORCES

5.1 SCOPE AND GENERAL .......................................................................................... 98
5.2 DETERMINATION OF NET UPLIFT PRESSURES ................................................ 98
SECTION 6 PRESSURES FOR DETERMINATION OF RACKING FORCES

6.1 SCOPE AND GENERAL ........................................................................................ 104
6.2 EQUIVALENT PRESSURES ON PROJECTED AREAS ....................................... 106
APPENDICES
A WIND CLASSIFICATIONS AND DESIGN WIND PRESSURES ......................... 110
B DESIGN OF OVERHANGS FOR BIRDSMOUTH NOTCHED RAFTERS ........... 111
AS 1720.3:2016 4
STANDARDS AUSTRALIA
Australian Standard
Timber structures
Part 3: Design criteria for timber-framed residential buildings
S E C T I O N 1 S C O P E A N D G E N E R A L
1.1 SCOPE AND APPLICATION

1.1.1 Scope
This Standard sets out the design methods, assumptions and other criteria, including uplift
forces and racking pressures, suitable for the design of timber-framed buildings constructed
within the limitations and parameters of, and using the building practice described in,
AS 1684.2, AS 1684.3 and AS 1684.4.
The design criteria apply for the preparation of design data for conventional timber-framed
construction where the loading and performance requirements correspond to those for
Class 1 and Class 10 buildings as defined by the National Construction Code—Building
Code of Australia.
1.1.2 Application
This Standard is to be read in conjunction with AS 1684.2, AS 1684.3 and AS 1684.4, the
AS/NZS 1170 series, AS 4055 and AS 1720.1.
NOTE: While this Standard may be applied for Class 10 buildings less conservative levels of
design may be permitted, for this Class, by building regulations and other Australian Standards.
The design criteria contained herein provide a basis for the design of timber members and
timber-framed building systems and components, including the preparation of Span Tables
and design data for structural wood products.
NOTE: The use of the design criteria contained in this Standard may provide evidence of
satisfactory safety and serviceability performance.
1.2 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS

The following documents are referred to in this Standard:
AS
1170 Structural design actions
1170.4 Part 4: Earthquake actions in Australia
1684 Residential timber-framed construction
1684.2 Part 2: Non-cyclonic areas
1684.3 Part 3: Cyclonic areas
1684.4 Part 4: Simplified—Non-cyclonic areas
1720 Timber structures
1720.1 Part 1: Design methods
4055 Wind loads for housing
© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

5 AS 1720.3:2016
AS/NZS
1170 Structural design actions
1170.1 Part 1: Permanent, imposed and the other actions
1170.2 Part 2: Wind actions
1170.3 Part 3: Snow and ice actions
CSIRO Low-rise domestic and similar framed structures
CSIRO BCE Report Notched composite beams, Dec. 97/169M, September 1997
1.3 OTHER METHODS

This Standard does not preclude the use of other methods of design, other assumptions or
criteria for design or any other means of demonstrating satisfactory safety and
serviceability performance in accordance with the requirements of the Building Code of
Australia.
1.4 BASIS FOR DESIGN

1.4.1 General
The design criteria contained in this Standard are an interpretation of the AS/NZS 1170
series, AS 4055 and AS 1720.1. The criteria have been formulated for the preparation of
generalized design data for residential buildings constructed using the conventional timber
framing system described in AS 1684.2, AS 1684.3 and AS 1684.4. The design criteria are
based upon the assumptions described in Clauses 1.4.2 to 1.4.11 below.
1.4.2 Geometric limitations
The following geometric limitations have been assumed:
(a) The overall building width at any section, excluding eaves and lean-to verandahs but
including verandahs under the main roof, does not exceed 16.0 m.
(b) The roof pitch does not exceed 35°.
(c) Roof shapes may be skillion or gable, hip or gable ended or any combination of these.
(d) The number of trafficable floors supported by timber framing does not exceed two.
(e) Wall height, measured from floor to ceiling, does not exceed 3.0 m.
NOTE: For further details refer to AS 1684.2, AS 1684.3 and AS 1684.4.
1.4.3 Design methods
1.4.3.1 General
The design methods used shall be based upon analytical and engineering principles and
comply with the requirements of AS 1720.1.
1.4.3.2 Capacity factor
Values of capacity factor (ϕ) shall generally be determined based on Category 1
applications in accordance with AS 1720.1 Table 2.1. Area affected shall typically be
computed as area = span × load width × 2 and where this value exceeds 25 m2, as may be
the case for a primary roof support member, the application shall be considered Category 2.
NOTE: Where a member supports a significant point load, such as for a lintel supporting a girder
roof truss, special consideration may be required in determining area affected.
www.standards.org.au © Standards Australia

AS 1720.3:2016 6
1.4.4 System-based assumptions

The design criteria include many system-based assumptions, which recognize the
interactions between structural elements and other elements of the overall construction
system. These assumptions are based upon the methods of assembly and materials given in
AS 1684.2, AS 1684.3 and AS 1684.4.
NOTE: The use of materials (both structural and non-structural) or installation methods other
than those given in AS 1684.2, AS 1684.3 and AS 1684.4, may invalidate the system-based
assumptions contained in this Standard.
1.4.5 Durability
The structural design criteria have been developed on the assumption that materials used
and their installation and maintenance ensure that components will fulfil their intended
structural function for the intended life of the structure.
NOTE: In the selection of materials, specific consideration should be given to the risk of and
resistance to biological attack and corrosion, long-term durability of adhesives and the long-term
strength and rigidity of materials taking into account the short-term and long-term conditions of
exposure.
1.4.6 Structural timber
The design criteria are provided primarily for, but are not limited to, design using the
generic stress grades and sizes of scantling timber as specified in AS 1684.2, AS 1684.3
and AS 1684.4.
NOTE: For other materials, where the application and performance are claimed to be consistent
with AS 1684.2, AS 1684.3 and AS 1684.4, the design procedures and assumptions may require
modification in accordance with the requirements of AS 1720.1.
1.4.7 Design properties
The design properties given in AS 1720.1, for generic stress grades and strength groups,
have been used as the basis for the development of the design criteria given in this
Standard.
1.4.8 Bearing and crushing
A check of bearing strength is indicated, where considered necessary, in the member design
Sections of this Standard. Care should be taken to ensure that relevant checks are performed
where large concentrated loads may cause crushing of members, such as may occur under
the ends of girder trusses, or at the supports for members supporting such high point loads.
1.4.9 Structural design actions
1.4.9.1 Permanent (dead load)
Permanent actions are based upon standardized allowances for the mass of roof, wall and
floor constructions.
NOTES:
1 Where actions arise as a result of non-standardized imposed dead loads (including permanent
proportion of live loads) which may include, but not be limited to, cupboards suspended from
walls and or ceilings, roof mounted hot water systems, heavy stone bench tops, safes, tiled
waterproof decking systems etc., then specific allowance in design is made for these actions.
2 Where mass or load allowances are different from those referred in this Standard are used,
then such variation should be noted in any published data.
1.4.9.2 Imposed (live load)
Generally, the imposed actions used for design correspond to those given in
AS/NZS 1170.1. The following departures and interpretations have been used:
(a) The partial live load for the serviceability design of continuous span joists and
bearers is taken as 0.75 kPa.

7 AS 1720.3:2016
(b) The permanent component of floor live load is taken as 0.5 kPa.
(c) Balconies and decks 1 m or more above the ground, are designed for a 1.5 kPa floor
live load for the serviceability limit state, as for balconies and decks less than 1 m
above the ground.
(d) For generic design, the concentrated load on primary ceiling support members,
including ceiling joists, hanging beams and counter beams is taken as 1.4 kN
regardless of cladding installation status and available headroom.
NOTES:
1 Live loads specific to construction, e.g. loads resulting from the use of fall protection devices
or scaffolding attached to the structure, are not considered.
2 AS/NZS 1170.1 allows this load to be reduced to 0.9 kN for some defined design
applications.
1.4.9.3 Wind
Wind actions for member design are derived from AS 4055 using wind classifications N1 to
N4 and C1 to C3 and associated design wind pressures as specified in Appendix A. Pressure
coefficients are determined from AS 4055 unless noted otherwise in the member design
information. It is assumed that all of the cladding elements including windows, doors and
garage doors are capable of resisting the design winds and comply with the relevant
Australian standards. Wind actions for tie-down design are determined from AS 4055 and
AS/NZS 1170.2.
1.4.9.4 Snow
Snow actions, determined in accordance with AS/NZS 1170.3, up to 0.2 kPa have been
considered and determined as not critical. For this reason, snow actions are not included in
the action combinations given for member design in this Standard.
1.4.9.5 Earthquake
AS 1170.4—2007 introduces a performance parameter KpZ which is calculated using return
period factor determined from the annual probability of exceedance and the hazard factor
for the site. Domestic structures designed and detailed for lateral wind forces in conjunction
with AS 1684 or AS 1720.1 with a KpZ ≤ 0.11 do not require specific earthquake design.
For this reason, earthquake actions are not included in the action combinations given for
member design or considered necessary for the calculation of racking loads to be resisted
by bracing.
1.4.9.6 Combinations of actions
Combinations of actions included for the determination of the strength limit states and the
serviceability limit states for each member are those considered appropriate in accordance
with AS/NZS 1170.1.
1.4.10 Strength limit states
For each member, all strength limit states have been considered; however, only those
strength limit states deemed as potentially critical are included in the design criteria and are
required to be assessed for the purposes of this Standard.
NOTE: For non-generic timber-based products, design may require consideration of strength limit
states other than those included in this Standard.

AS 1720.3:2016 8
1.4.11 Serviceability limit states

The serviceability limit states used for the design have been determined on the basis of
experience with the known serviceability performance of individual member types in
typical applications. Serviceability limits used are intended to provide satisfactory rigidity
for average situations.
NOTES:
1 For installations where greater than usual rigidity may be required it is anticipated that larger
sizes and or materials with higher or more uniform modulus of elasticity should be used
(see AS 1720.1), e.g. granite kitchen benchtops, large ceramic floor tiles, island benches.
2 Consider the relative deformation of joists parallel and close to relatively rigid walls (either
above or below the floor). Resultant localized differential deflection can cause cracking of
rigid surface finishes and can cause high/narrow furniture to lean noticeably.
3 The serviceability limit states given are for individual elements. Where one element is
supported by another, the cumulative deflection of the system of elements should be
considered to prevent cracking of linings, cladding or glazing and to prevent result in load
transfer to joinery items and consequent damage.
4 The limits on deflection used as part of the definition of the serviceability limit states are
limits intended for comparison with calculated deflections only. Actual or measured
deflections may differ from calculated deflections due to any or all of the following factors:
(a) Differences between actual loads and design loads used for serviceability calculations.
(b) Differences between the actual modulus of elasticity of components and the average
value used for design.
(c) Differences between the structural behaviour of the system and the structural models
used for design.
1.5 DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of this Standard, the following definitions apply.
1.5.1 Balcony
An external trafficable floor area of a house.
1.5.2 Birdsmouth
A triangular notch cut into the underside of a sloping beam (e.g. rafter) to permit seating on
the supporting member.
1.5.3 Bracing
An assembly intended to resist racking forces including diagonal members, shear panels,
diaphragms, cantilevered columns or portal (rigid) frames.
1.5.4 Cladding
Material used for the external surface of walls or roofs.
1.5.5 Deck
An external attached or detached trafficable floor area.
1.5.6 Flooring or decking
Boards or sheets overlying floor joists intended to support floor loads. Flooring is usually
tongue and groove jointed along the edges whereas decking comprises individual
non-connected boards.
1.5.7 Generic stress grades
Stress grades for which properties are included in AS 1720.1.

9 AS 1720.3:2016
1.5.8 Lining
The materials used for the internal faces of walls or ceilings.
1.5.9 Loadbearing walls
Walls required to support vertical loads from roofs and/or floors.
NOTE: This definition differs from that given in the Building Code of Australia.
1.5.10 Nogging
A horizontal member, fitted between studs in a wall frame, which restrains the studs against
buckling in the plane of the wall. Noggings may also be used for attachment of cladding or
lining or as part of a bracing system.
1.5.11 Non-loadbearing walls
Partition walls not supporting roofs or floors. Non-loadbearing walls may support ceilings
and may incorporate posts for the support of roof or floor loads.
NOTE: This definition differs from that given in the Building Code of Australia.
1.5.12 Sheet roofing
Includes sheet metal tile panels and other metal deck roofing of mass up to 10 kg/m 2.
1.5.13 Span
1.5.13.1 Effective span
The effective span of flexural members shall be taken as the distance between the centres of
areas of bearing or of connections.
For members that extend over bearings longer than is necessary, it is appropriate to measure
the span as the distance between centres of imaginary bearings which are chosen in such a
way that their lengths are adequate to comply with the requirements of AS 1720.1.
1.5.13.2 Single span
The span of a member supported at or near both ends with no immediate supports. This
includes the case where members are partially cut through over intermediate supports to
remove spring.
1.5.13.3 Continuous span
Members supported at or near both ends and at one or more intermediate points such that no
span is greater than twice another.
NOTE: Truss spans have traditionally been measured from outside to outside of pitching plates.
1.5.14 Standard roof truss
An engineered, triangulated framework installed at similar centres to rafters and designed to
transfer roof and ceiling loads, usually, to external walls.
1.5.15 Tie-down
The connections or fixings designed to resist uplift forces due to wind.
1.5.16 Tiled roofing
Includes slate, terracotta and concrete tiles of mass up to 60 kg/m 2.
1.5.17 Wall/brick tie
A bracket connecting brick cladding to a timber wall frame.

AS 1720.3:2016 10
1.6 NOTATION
Generally, the notation used in AS 1720.1, AS 1684 series, AS 4055 and the AS/NZS 1170
series is used also in this Standard. Notation specific to each clause is defined in that
clause. Some general notation symbols used in this Standard are as follows:
b = breadth of member
CLW = ceiling load width
d = depth of member
FLW = floor load width
Kc = pressure combination factor (see Section 6)
L = general symbol used for span
Lo = horizontal span for rafter overhang
P = general symbol for concentrated load
RLW = roof load width
S = general symbol used for spacing
w = general symbol for distributed load

11 AS 1720.3:2016
S E C T I O N 2 D E S I G N O F R O O F M E M B E R S
2.1 ROOF BATTENS

2.1.1 Description
A roof batten is a rectangular section used on its flat to provide direct support for sheet or
tile roofing. Spans for roof battens are limited to 1200 mm. For tile roofs a standard spacing
of 330 mm is considered whereas for sheet roofs, spacings up to 1200 mm are included.
Battens are assumed to span continuously over rafters (or trusses) for at least two spans (see
Figure 2.1.1).
Ro of bat ten
Raf te r o r tr u s s
B at te n
s pac in g
B at te n
s pan
B at te n over h a n g
FIGURE 2.1.1 ROOF BATTENS
2.1.2 Design for safety

2.1.2.1 General consideration
Design for safety requires consideration of the strength limit states for bending about the
minor axis only and shear.
NOTE: Battens are assumed prevented from bending in the plane of the roof by the attached
cladding.
2.1.2.2 Design actions
The actions used for the determination of the design action effects shall be as follows:
(a) Permanent Permanent actions, G, corresponding to the typical roof constructions,
are determined from Table 2.1.2.2(A).
TABLE 2.1.2.2(A)
PERMANENT ACTIONS FOR ROOF BATTENS
Roof type Permanent action, (G) kN/m

Sheet roof 0.1S + self weight
Tile roof 0.6S + self weight
LEGEND:
S = spacing of roof battens, in metres
Self weight = roof batten self weight, in kN/m

AS 1720.3:2016 12
(b) Imposed The uniformly distributed imposed action, Q1 (in kN/m), and concentrated
imposed actions, Q2 and Q3 (both in kN), used for design are determined from—
(i) Q1 = 0.25S . . . 2.1.2.2(1)
(ii) Q2 = g44 × 1.1 . . . 2.1.2.2(2)
(iii) Q3 = g45 × 1.1 . . . 2.1.2.2(3)
where
g44 = the lesser of 1.33S and 1.0
and
g45 is calculated in accordance with Appendix B3, assuming a bargeboard of
rigidity EfIf = 18 × 109 Nmm 2 is attached to the ends of the parallel overhanging
battens, and g47 = 1.0 (i.e. no birdsmouth notch).
NOTE: The load distribution factor g44 is taken from CSIRO, Low-rise domestic and similar
framed structures (see Clause 1.2). The use of this load distribution factor is based upon
construction workers following the traditional practice of not treading at or near mid-span of
closely spaced battens prior to the installation of roof claddings.
(c) Wind The wind action, Wu (in kN/m), applicable for the strength limit state, is
determined from—
Wu = quCptS . . . 2.1.2.2(4)
where
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the ultimate limit state
values of qu are given in Appendix A, Table A2, for each wind
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients given in Table 2.1.2.2(B)
TABLE 2.1.2.2(B)
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR ROOF BATTENS
C pt
Wind classification Areas within 1.2 m Areas within 1.2 m
General areas
of an edge of an eaves corner
N1 to N4 +0.63, −1.0 −1.8 −2.61
C1 to C3 +0.95, −1.44 −2.25 −3.06
NOTES:
1 Local pressure effects may be catered for by specifying reductions in batten
spacing near edges and eaves corners, as appropriate.
2 The value of Cpt for areas within 1.2 m of an eaves corner applies only to roof
slopes less than 10°. Where there is no internal pressure, such as in open
verandah or eave construction, this value of C pt shall be increased to −2.7.
3 Values given in this Table are based on the assumption that a separate ceiling is
provided with the maximum internal pressure coefficient (C pi) for roof cavities in
cyclonic regions considered as for non-cyclonic regions.

13 AS 1720.3:2016
2.1.2.3 Structural models and action categories for strength design

The structural models used to calculate the member design action effects shall be as given
in Table 2.1.2.3. Action combinations shown in Table 2.1.2.3 are divided into action
categories that are used for the determination of member design capacity as specified in
Clause 2.1.2.4.
TABLE 2.1.2.3
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND ACTION CATEGORIES—STRENGTH
Action category Structural model

1. 3 5G
1
1. 2G + 1. 5Q 1
2
1. 5 Q 2 1. 2G
L /2 L /2
3
1. 5 Q 3
1. 2G
10 0
0. 9 G + W u
4
1. 2G + W u 
2.1.2.4 Member design capacity

The requirements of AS 1720.1 shall be applied to determine member design capacities in
bending and shear. The following assumptions and modification factors shall be used:
(a) Load duration factor The member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k1). Values of k1 appropriate for each action category are given in
Table 2.1.2.4.
TABLE 2.1.2.4
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH
Action category Load duration factor (k 1 )
1 0.57
2 0.94
3 0.97
4 1.00
(b) Moisture content of timber:

(i) Unseasoned timber—for Action category 4 given in Table 2.1.2.3, use values of
k4 appropriate for thickness as specified in AS 1720.1. For Action categories 1,
2 and 3, k4 = 1.0.
(ii) Seasoned timber—k4 = 1.0 for all action categories.
(c) Member restraint For battens, breadth is greater than or equal to depth and, hence,
the lateral stability factor k12 = 1.0.
AS 1720.3:2016 14
2.1.3 Design for serviceability

The actions used for the serviceability limit states shall be as follows:
(a) Permanent Permanent actions, G, corresponding to various typical roof
constructions are determined from Table 2.1.2.2(A).
(b) Wind The uniformly distributed wind action, Ws (in kN/m), applicable for the
serviceability limit state is determined from—
Ws = qsCptS . . . 2.1.3.1
where
qs = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the serviceability limit
state; values of qs are given in Appendix A, Table A2, for each wind
classification
2.1.3.2 Structural models and action categories for serviceability design
The structural models for which deflections are calculated shall be as given in
Table 2.1.3.2. Action cases included in Table 2.1.3.2 are divided into action categories for
the purpose of allowing for the effect of duration of load on stiffness as specified in
Clause 2.1.3.3.
TABLE 2.1.3.2
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND ACTION CATEGORIES—SERVICEABILITY
Action category Structural model
G G
1
W s Ws
2
2.1.3.3 Calculation of deflection

The requirements of AS 1720.1 for the calculation of deformation shall be applied using the
duration of load factor for creep deformation as given in Table 2.1.3.3.
TABLE 2.1.3.3
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR DEFORMATION
Load duration factor (j 2 )
Moisture content Action category 1 Action category 2
(permanent loads) (transient loads)
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0

15 AS 1720.3:2016
2.1.3.4 Serviceability limits

The limits on deflection defining the serviceability limit state are given in Table 2.1.3.4.
TABLE 2.1.3.4
LIMITS ON DEFLECTION
Deflection limits
Action category
Mid-span End of overhang
1 Span/300 Overhang/150 or 4 mm
whichever is greater (see Note)
2 Span/150 No limitation
NOTE: Limit shall be ignored for upwards deflection.
2.2 RAFTERS
2.2.1 Description
Rafters are roof members that run parallel to the fall of the roof and support roof battens or
purlins. They may also support ceilings, either directly or via ceiling battens or joists.
Rafters may be either single span or continuous span and may be cantilevered to form an
eaves overhang either with or without a birdsmouth notch at the overhang support.
Continuous span rafters are assumed not notched at intermediate supports.
For the determination of the maximum overhang the ends of rafters are assumed rigidly
connected to a fascia that acts to share any concentrated loads to adjacent members
[see Figure 2.2.1 and Clause 2.2.2.2(b)(iii)].
Raf ter s pac in g Raf ter s pac in g

Und er pur lin
R i d g e b o ar d
R i d g e b o ar d Ceiling
joist
Single C o nt i nu o u s
s pan r af ter s pan r af ter
Fa s c i a Fa s c i a
O ver han g s pan O ver han g s pan
(a) S i n g l e s p a n (b) C o nt inu ou s s pan
FIGURE 2.2.1 RAFTERS

Design for safety requires consideration of the strength limit states for bending and shear.
In addition, for birdsmouth notches associated with overhangs, the interaction of bending
and shear shall also be considered.

AS 1720.3:2016 16

(a) Permanent Permanent actions, G, corresponding to various typical roof
constructions, are determined from Table 2.2.2.2(A).
TABLE 2.2.2.2(A)
PERMANENT ACTION
Permanent action, (G)

Roof type
kN/m
0.1S + self weight
Sheet roof only
0.2S + self weight
Sheet roof and ceiling 0.4S + self weight
Tile roof only 0.6S + self weight
Tile roof and ceiling 0.9S + self weight
LEGEND:
S = spacing of rafters, in metres
Self weight = rafter self weight, in kN/m
(b) Imposed The distributed imposed action, Q1 (in kN/m), and concentrated imposed
actions Q2 and Q3 (in kN), are determined from—
(i) Q1 = 0.25S . . . 2.2.2.2(1)
(ii) Q2 = g42 × 1.1 . . . 2.2.2.2(2)
(iii) Q3 = g45 × 1.1 . . . 2.2.2.2(3)
where
g42 = load distribution factor for concentrated load, applied to a grid system,
calculated in accordance with AS 1720.1, assuming the crossing
members are battens with rigidity and spacing as follows:
(1) Sheet roofs: EcIc = 2.3 × 109 Nmm2, and spacing = 1200 mm.
(2) Tile roofs: EcIc = 380 × 106 Nmm2, and spacing = 330 mm.
g45 = load distribution factor for parallel rafter overhangs, calculated as
detailed in Appendix B for the case where the depth of the birdsmouth
notch is no greater than one third of the rafter depth and a structural
fascia of minimum rigidity 86 × 109 Nmm2 is attached to the end of each
rafter. Where these conditions are not met, g45 = 1
(c) Wind The wind action, Wu (in kN/m), applicable for the strength limit state is
determined from—
Wu = quCptS . . . 2.2.2.2(4)
where
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the ultimate limit state;
classification

17 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 2.2.2.2(B)
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS
FOR RAFTERS—STRENGTH
C pt
Wind classification
Main spans Overhang
N1 to N4 +0.63 or −0.99 +0.95 or −1.44
C1 to C3 +0.95 or −1.44 +0.95 or −1.44

Clause 2.2.2.4.
TABLE 2.2.2.3
Structural model
Action category
Single span Continuous span Overhang
1. 3 5 G 1. 3 5 G 1. 3 5 G
1
1. 2G + 1. 5 Q 1 1. 2G + 1. 5 Q 1 1. 2G + 1. 5 Q 1
1. 5 Q 2 1. 2G 1. 5 Q 2 1. 2G 1. 2G 1. 5 Q 3
3
L /2 L /2 L /2 L /2 10 0
1. 2G + W u  1. 2G + W u  1. 2G + W u 
4 0.9G + W u
0. 9 G + W u 0. 9 G + W u 0.9G + W u

bending and shear. In addition, for birdsmouth notches associated with rafter overhangs, the
procedures given in Appendix B shall be applied, assuming the notch depth is one third of
the rafter depth. The following assumptions and modification factors shall be used:
for load duration (k1). Values of k1 appropriate for each action category, as defined in
Table 2.2.2.3, are given in Table 2.2.2.4.

AS 1720.3:2016 18
TABLE 2.2.2.4
1 0.57
2 0.94
3 0.97
4 1.00

(i) Unseasoned timber—for Action category 4 given in Table 2.2.2.3, use values of
k4 appropriate for thickness as specified in AS 1720.1. For action categories 1,
2 and 3, k4 = 1.0.
(c) Strength sharing For scantling timber, the strength sharing factor (k9) is applied as
follows:
(i) For calculating maximum main spans, k9 is determined in accordance with
AS 1720.1, assuming nmem = 5 and ncom = 1 (for single members).
(ii) For calculating maximum overhangs and for negative moment only
(see Appendix B)—
k9 = 1.24 − 0.24 (S/Lo), but not less than 1.0 . . . 2.2.2.4
where
S = spacing of rafters
Lo = horizontal span of the overhang
(d) Member restraint For the determination of bending capacity the following
assumptions related to lateral restraint are used:
(i) At supports—rafters are assumed torsionally restrained at their supports.
(ii) Between supports—
(A) the top edges of rafters are assumed laterally restrained by battens, or
purlins, at 330 mm centres for tile roofs and 1200 mm centres for sheet
roofs; and
(B) in addition, continuous span rafters are assumed restrained against
torsional buckling at the points of contraflexure taken as one quarter of
the span from the intermediate support.
The actions used for the purpose of assessing the serviceability limit states shall be as
follows:
(a) Permanent and imposed Permanent actions and imposed actions are determined as
described in Clause 2.2.2.2.
serviceability limit state is determined from—
Ws = qsCptS . . . 2.2.3.1

19 AS 1720.3:2016
where
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients given in Table 2.2.3.1
TABLE 2.2.3.1
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR RAFTERS—
SERVICEABILITY
C pt
Wind classification
Main spans Overhang
N1 to N4 and C1 to C3 +0.63 or −0.99 +0.95 or −1.44

Table 2.2.3.2.
Action cases included in Table 2.2.3.2 are divided into action categories for the purpose of
allowing for the effect of duration of load on stiffness, as specified in Clause 2.2.3.3.
TABLE 2.2.3.2
Structural model
Action category
Single span Continuous span Overhang (cantilevered)
G G G
1
Q1 Q1
Q4
2 Q3 Q3
10 0
L /2 L /2 L /2 L /2
W s W s W s
W s
3

The requirements of AS 1720.1 for the calculation of deflection shall be applied using the
duration of load factor for creep deformation as given in Table 2.2.3.4(A). In addition, the
deflection at the ends of overhangs for birdsmouth-notched rafters shall be determined
using the modified rafter rigidity given in Appendix B.
The limits on deflection, defining the serviceability limit state, are given in
Table 2.2.3.4(B).

AS 1720.3:2016 20
TABLE 2.2.3.4(A)
Moisture content
Action category 1 Action category 2 or 3
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0
TABLE 2.2.3.4(B)
Deflection limits
Action category
1 Span/300 or 10 mm
20 mm max.
2 Span/250 10 mm
3 Span/150 20 mm
2.3 ROOF BEAMS—RIDGE OR INTERMEDIATE BEAMS

2.3.1 Description
Ridge or intermediate beams are roof beams that support rafters, which in turn support roof
or roof and ceiling loads. Roof beams run perpendicular to the slope of the roof, are either
single or continuous span and may cantilever to support a verge overhang. Overhang spans
are determined assuming roof beams are not notched at the overhang support.
For the purpose of determining lateral stability, roof beams are assumed to be laterally
restrained by rafters fixed to their top edge (see Figure 2.3.1).
R i d g e b eam Supports Inter m e d i ate Supports

(p o st , wall, etc.) beam (p o st , wall, etc.)
Raf ter
Ridge
beam
R i d g e b eam Inter m e d i ate Supporting

Supporting
s p an beam s p an wall
wall or
inter m e d i ate
beam
(a) R i d g e b eam (b) Inter m e d i ate b eam
FIGURE 2.3.1 ROOF BEAMS—RIDGE OR INTERMEDIATE BEAM

Roof beam design for safety requires consideration of the strength limit state for bending,
shear and bearing.

21 AS 1720.3:2016

(a) Permanent The uniformly distributed permanent action, G (in kN/m), corresponding
to various typical roof constructions with additional allowance for the weight of the
rafters, is determined from—
G = 0.01(RM)(RLW) + 0.02(RLW)2 + self weight . . . 2.3.2.2(1)
where
RM = standardized roof mass, i.e. 10, 20, 40, 60 or 90 kg/m 2
RLW = roof load width for the roof beam, in metres
self weight = roof beam self weight, in kN/m
(b) Imposed The distributed imposed action, Q1 (in kN/m), and concentrated imposed
action, Q2 (in kN), are determined from—
(i) Q1 = 0.25(RLW) . . . 2.3.2.2(2)
(ii) Q2 = 1.1 . . . 2.3.2.2(3)
where
RLW = roof load width for the roof beam, in metres
(c) Wind The uniformly distributed wind action, Wu (in kN/m), applicable for the
strength limit state is determined from—
Wu = quCpt(RLW) . . . 2.3.2.2(4)
where
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the ultimate limit state
classification
RLW = roof load width for roof beam, in metres
TABLE 2.3.2.2
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR ROOF BEAMS—
STRENGTH
C pt
Wind classification
Main spans Overhang
N1 to N4 +0.63 or −0.99 +0.95 or −1.44
C1 to C3 +0.95 or −1.44 +0.95 or −1.44
N1 to N4 and C1 to C3 for +0.95 or −1.44 +0.95 or −1.44
alfresco and carports

in Table 2.3.2.4(A). Action combinations shown in Table 2.3.2.4(A) are divided into action
Clause 2.3.2.4.

AS 1720.3:2016 22

bending, shear and bearing. The following assumptions and modification factors shall be
used:
Table 2.3.2.4(A), are given in Table 2.3.2.4(B).
(i) Unseasoned timber—for action categories 3 and 4 given in Table 2.3.2.4(A),
use values of k4 appropriate for thickness as given in AS 1720.1. For action
categories 1 and 2, k4 = 1.0.
TABLE 2.3.2.4(A)
Structural model
Action category
Single span Continuous span Overhang
1. 3 5G 1.3 5G 1. 3 5G
1
1. 2G + 1. 5Q 1 1. 2G + 1. 5Q 1
2
1. 5Q 2 1. 2G 1. 5Q 2 1. 2G 1. 2G 1. 5Q 2
3
L /2 L /2 L /2 L /2 10 0
1. 2G + W u  1. 2G + W u  1. 2G + W u 
4 0.9G + W u
0.9G + W u 0.9G + W u 0.9G + W u
TABLE 2.3.2.4(B)
1 0.57
2 0.94
3 0.97
4 1.00
(c) Strength sharing Where multiple sections of scantling timber are nail-laminated, the
strength sharing factor (k9) is applied for the combined member, assuming nmem = 1
and ncom = number of combined sections.

23 AS 1720.3:2016
(d) Member restraint For the determination of bending capacity, the following
assumptions relating to lateral restraint are used:
(i) At supports—roof beams are assumed torsionally restrained at their supports.
(ii) Between supports:
(A) The top edges of roof beams are assumed restrained at 1200 mm centres.
(B) Continuous span roof beams are assumed restrained against buckling at
the points of contraflexure.
NOTE: Where nail-laminated members are used, the breadth of member used to derive the
slenderness coefficient (S 1) is taken as the breadth of an individual lamination.
The actions used for the serviceability limit state shall be as follows:
serviceability limit state, is determined from—
Ws = qsCpt(RLW) . . . 2.3.3.1
where
classification
RLW = roof load width for roof beam, in metres
TABLE 2.3.3.1
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR ROOF BEAMS—
SERVICEABILITY
C pt
Wind classification
Main spans Overhangs
N1 to N4 and C1 to C3 +0.63 or −0.99 −0.9

Table 2.3.3.2. Action cases included in Table 2.3.3.2 are divided into action categories for
the purpose of allowing for the effect of duration of load on stiffness, as specified in
Clause 2.3.3.3.

AS 1720.3:2016 24
TABLE 2.3.3.2
Structural model
Action category
G G G
1
Q1 Q1
Q2
2 Q2 Q2
10 0
L /2 L /2 L /2 L /2
W s W s W s W s
3

TABLE 2.3.3.3

Moisture content
Action category 1 Action category 2 or 3
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0

The limits on deflection used to define the serviceability limit states are given in
Table 2.3.3.4.
TABLE 2.3.3.4
Deflection limits
Action category
1 Span/300 or 10 mm
20 mm max.
2 Span/250 10 mm
3 Span/150 30 mm
2.4 UNDERPURLINS
2.4.1 Description
Underpurlins provide intermediate support for rafters in coupled roof construction. They are
orientated as shown in Figure 2.4.1 and primarily support roof loads normal to the plane of
the roof over the middle part of the rafter length.

25 AS 1720.3:2016
Sections with depth to overall breadth ratios greater than four are not considered for
application as underpurlins. Further, where the depth to overall breadth ratio exceeds two,
underpurlins are assumed torsionally braced at supports and fly-braced back to rafters at
intervals not exceeding 1200 mm along their span. These requirements are intended to
minimize weak axis sag that may reduce support to rafters and/or induce buckling,
particularly for more steeply pitched roofs.
Un d er pur lin s pan
R i d g e b o ar d
Raf ter
Raf ter
s pac in g
Und er pur lin
Ro of str ut
FIGURE 2.4.1 UNDERPURLINS

Design for safety requires consideration of the strength limit states in bending and shear.
The actions used for determination of the design actions effects shall be as follows:
(a) Permanent Permanent actions include the self weight of the underpurlin, G1
(in kN/m), and concentrated action, G2 (in kN), imposed by the rafters. G2 is
determined from—
G2 = 1.25(0.01RM)SR(RLW) . . . 2.4.2.2(1)
where
RM = standardized roof mass, i.e. 10, 20 or 60 kg/m 2
SR = spacing of rafters, i.e. 0.6 m or 1.2 m
RLW = roof load width for underpurlin, in metres
NOTE: The 1.25 factor in Equation 2.4.2.2(1) provides an allowance for the weight of
supported rafters and the effect of their continuity.
(b) Imposed Imposed actions applied via rafters are considered as concentrated actions,
Q1 (in kN), and are determined as follows:
Q1 = 0.25SR(RLW) . . . 2.4.2.2(2)

AS 1720.3:2016 26
where
RLW = roof load width for underpurlins, in metres
(c) Wind Wind actions are considered as concentrated actions (Wu), imposed via the
rafters. Concentrated actions, Wu (in kN), are determined as follows:
Wu = quCptSR(RLW) . . . 2.4.2.2(3)
where
classification
RLW = roof load width for underpurlin, in metres
TABLE 2.4.2.2
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR UNDERPURLINS
Wind classification C pt
N1 to N4 +0.63 or −0.99
C1 to C3 +0.95 or −1.44
NOTE: Values given in this Table are based on the assumption that a
separate ceiling is provided with the maximum internal pressure
coefficient (C pi) for roof cavities in cyclonic regions considered as for
non-cyclonic regions.
2.4.2.3 Structural models and action categories used for strength design
The structural models used to determine the member design action effects shall be as given
Clause 2.4.2.4.
for load duration (k1). Values of k1 appropriate for each action category defined in
Table 2.4.2.4(A) are given in Table 2.4.2.4(B).
(i) Unseasoned timber—for action categories 2 and 3, use values of k4 appropriate
for member thickness as given in AS 1720.1. For Action category 1, k4 = 1.0.

27 AS 1720.3:2016
(i) At supports—underpurlins are considered torsionally restrained at their
supports.
(A) The top edges of underpurlins are assumed restrained by rafters at
600 mm or 1200 mm centres, as appropriate.
(B) Underpurlins with a depth to overall breadth ratio greater than two are
assumed torsionally restrained at 1200 mm centres.
(C) Continuous span underpurlins are assumed restrained against buckling at
the points of contraflexure.
slenderness coefficient (S1) is taken as the breadth of an individual lamination and not the
overall breadth.
TABLE 2.4.2.4(A)
Design action Structural models

effect Single span Continuous span
In bending P S P S P w P S P S P S P S P w
R R R R R R
L /2 L /2 L /2 L /2 L
In shear P S P S P S P w w P S P S P S PS P S P
R R R R R R R R
1. 5 d 1. 5 d
Action category Design actions

1 w = 1.35G 1 and P = 1.35G 2
2 w = 1.2G 1 and P = (1.2G 2 + 1.5Q 1 )
w = 1.2G 1 and P = (1.2G 2 + Wu ↓)
3
w = 0.9G 1 and P = (0.9G 2 + Wu ↑)
NOTES:
1 S R is rafter spacing, either 0.6 m or 1.2 m.
2 The number of concentrated actions considered will vary according to span, rafter spacing and locations of
concentrated actions.
3 Actions within 1.5d of supports are ignored in the determination of the design action effect in shear.
TABLE 2.4.2.4(B)
1 0.57
2 0.97
3 1.00

AS 1720.3:2016 28

The permanent actions and imposed actions used for the serviceability limit states shall be
as described in Clause 2.4.2.2.
Table 2.4.3.2. Action cases given in Table 2.4.3.2 are divided into action categories for the
purpose of allowing for duration of load on stiffness as specified in Clause 2.4.3.3.
TABLE 2.4.3.2
Structural models
Action category
Single span Continuous span
G2 G2 G2 G1 G2 G2 G2 G2 G2 G1
SR SR SR SR SR SR
L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2 L
Q1 Q1 Q1 Q1 S Q1 S Q1
SR SR R R
2
L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2 L
LEGEND:
S R = rafter spacing.

TABLE 2.4.3.3
Moisture content
Action category 1 Action category 2
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0

Table 2.4.3.4.
TABLE 2.4.3.4
Action category Deflection limits
1 Span/300
2 Span/250

29 AS 1720.3:2016
2.5 STRUTTING BEAMS

2.5.1 Description
Strutting beams are horizontal or near horizontal single span beams, installed within the
roof space clear of ceilings, which provide support to underpurlins via roof struts.
While strutting beams may be loaded by one or more struts located anywhere within the
span, the design procedures given conservatively assume all roof load is applied via a single
strut.
Strutting beams are assumed torsionally braced at supports and at midspan (see
Figure 2.5.1).
Und er pur lin

R i d g e b o ar d
Ro of str ut
Str ut t ing beam

Str ut t ing beam
s pan
FIGURE 2.5.1 STRUTTING BEAMS

Roof actions applied to strutting beams are calculated on the basis of roof area supported.
Design actions shall be as follows:
(a) Permanent Permanent actions for strutting beams include the self weight of the
strutting beam, G1 (in kN/m), and the roof mass as a concentrated action, G2 (in kN),
determined as follows:
G2 = 0.01(RM + 10)A . . . 2.5.2.2(1)
where
RM = standardized roof mass allowance, i.e. 20 kg/m 2 for sheet roofs and
60 kg/m2 for tile roofs
A = area of roof supported by the strutting beam, in square metres
(b) Imposed Imposed roof action is considered applied as a concentrated action, Q1
(in kN), determined as follows:
Q1 = 0.25A . . . 2.5.2.2(2)
where
A = area of roof supported by strutting beam, in square metres

AS 1720.3:2016 30
(c) Wind Wind action applicable for the strength limit state is considered applied as a
concentrated action Wu (in kN), determined as follows:
Wu = quCptA . . . 2.5.2.2(3)
where
classification
A = area of roof supported by the strutting beam, in square metres
TABLE 2.5.2.2
FOR STRUTTING BEAMS
N1 to N4 +0.63 or −1.0
C1 to C3 +0.95 or −1.44
NOTE: Values given in this Table are based on the
assumption that a separate ceiling is provided with
the maximum internal pressure coefficient (C pi ) for
roof cavities in cyclonic regions considered as for
non-cyclonic regions.

The structural models used to calculate the member design action effect shall be as given in
Table 2.5.2.4(A). Action combinations shown in Table 2.5.2.4(A) are divided into action
Clause 2.5.2.4.
use values of k4 appropriate for thickness as given in AS 1720.1. For Action
category 1, k4 = 1.0.
strength sharing factor (k9) is applied for the combined member, assuming nmem = 1.0
(i) At supports—strutting beams are assumed torsionally restrained at their
supports.

31 AS 1720.3:2016
(ii) Between supports—strutting beams having a depth to breadth ratio greater than
three are assumed torsionally restrained at midspan (the assumed load point).
TABLE 2.5.2.4(A)
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND ACTION CATEGORIES—
STRENGTH
Design action effect Structural models
In bending P w
L /2 L /2
In shear P w
L /3 2 L /3

1 w = 1.35G 1 and P = 1.35G 2
2 w = 1.2G 1 and P = (1.2G 2 + 1.5Q 1 )
w = 1.2G 1 and P = (1.2G 2 + Wu ↓)
3
w = 0.9G 1 and P = (0.9G 2 + Wu ↑)
TABLE 2.5.2.4(B)
1 0.57
2 0.97
3 1.00


AS 1720.3:2016 32
TABLE 2.5.3.2
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND ACTION
CATEGORIES—SERVICEABILITY
Action category Structural models
G2 G1
1
L /2 L /2
Q1
2
L /2 L /2

TABLE 2.5.3.3
Moisture content
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0

Table 2.5.3.4.
TABLE 2.5.3.4
1 Span/300 or 20 mm max.
2.6 COUNTER STRUTTING BEAMS

2.6.1 Description
Counter strutting beams support roof loads from roof struts and ceiling loads from hanging
beams.
For design, loading from both roof and ceiling is considered concentrated at midspan.
Counter strutting beams are assumed torsionally braced at their supports and at midspan by
the attachment of the hanging beams (see Figure 2.6.1).

33 AS 1720.3:2016
R i d g e b o ar d Und er pur lin

Raf ter
Ro of str ut
C ounter str ut t in g
C o u nter beam
str ut t ing beam H ang ing beam
FIGURE 2.6.1 COUNTER STRUTTING BEAM

(a) Permanent Permanent actions include the self weight of the counter strutting beam
G1 (in kN/m) and the concentrated action due to the roof and ceiling mass, G2 (in kN),
determined from—
G2 = 0.01(RM + 10)A + (0.06L + 0.005L2)(CLW) . . . 2.6.2.2(1)
where
60 kg/m2 for tile roofs
A = area of roof supported by the counter strutting beam, in square metres
L = span of the counter strutting beam, in metres
CLW = ceiling load width for the counter strutting beam, in metres
(b) Imposed Imposed roof action is considered as a concentrated action, Q1 (in kN),
applied via a roof strut and determined from—
Q1 = 0.25A . . . 2.6.2.2(2)
where
A = roof area supported by the counter strutting beam, in square metres
(c) Wind Wind action is considered applied as a concentrated action, Wu (in kN),
applied via a single roof strut and determined from—
Wu = quCptA . . . 2.6.2.2(3)
where
classification
A = roof area supported by the counter strutting beam, in square metres

AS 1720.3:2016 34
TABLE 2.6.2.2
FOR COUNTER STRUTTING BEAM
N1 to N4 +0.63 or −1.0
C1 to C3 +0.95 or −1.44

Clause 2.6.2.4.
Table 2.6.2.2, are given in Table 2.6.2.4(B).
use values of k4 appropriate for thickness as specified in AS 1720.1. For Action
(i) At supports—counter strutting beams are assumed torsionally restrained at their
supports.
(ii) Between supports—counter strutting beams are assumed torsionally restrained
at midspan.

35 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 2.6.2.4(A)
CATEGORIES—STRENGTH
In bending P w
L /2 L /2
In shear P w
L /3 2 L /3

1 w = 1.35G 1 and P = 1.35G 2
2 w = 1.2G 1 and P = (1.2G 2 + 1.5Q 1 )
w = 1.2G 1 and P = (1.2G 2 + Wu ↓)
3
w = 0.9G 1 and P = (0.9G 2 + Wu ↑)
TABLE 2.6.2.4(B)
1 0.57
2 0.97
3 1.00


AS 1720.3:2016 36
TABLE 2.6.3.2
G2 G1
1
L /2 L /2
Q1
2
L /2 L /2

TABLE 2.6.3.3
Moisture content
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0

Table 2.6.3.4.
TABLE 2.6.3.4
2.7 COMBINED HANGING STRUTTING BEAMS

2.7.1 Description
Combined hanging strutting beams support roof loads applied via roof struts to the top edge
and ceiling loads from ceiling joists along the bottom edge.
For design, roof loads are conservatively assumed applied via a single roof strut and ceiling
loads are assumed uniformly distributed (see Figure 2.7.1).

37 AS 1720.3:2016
Und er pur lin

Raf ter
Ro of str ut
Ceiling joist
H anging - str ut t ing
beam s pan
H anging - str ut t ing beam
FIGURE 2.7.1 COMBINED HANGING-STRUTTING BEAM

(a) Permanent Permanent actions include the distributed action due to self weight and
the weight of the ceiling, G1 (in kN/m), and the concentrated action due to the weight
of the roof, G2 (in kN), with G1 and G2 determined from—
(i) G1 = 0.12(CLW) + 0.02(CLW)2 + self weight . . . 2.7.2.2(1)
(ii) G2 = 0.01(RM + 10)A . . . 2.7.2.2(2)
where
CLW = ceiling load width for combined hanging strutting beam, in metres
60 kg/m2 for tile roofs self weight = hanging-strutting beam self
weight in kN/m
(b) Imposed Imposed roof action is considered as a concentrated action, Q1 (in kN),
applied via a single roof strut and determined from—
Q1 = 0.25A . . . 2.7.2.2(3)
where
A = roof area supported by the combined hanging strutting beam, in square
metres
(c) Wind Wind action is considered as a concentrated action, W u (in kN) applied via a
single roof strut and determined from—
Wu = quCptA . . . 2.7.2.2(4)
where
classification

AS 1720.3:2016 38
A = roof area supported by the combined hanging strutting beam, in square

metres
TABLE 2.7.2.2
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR
COMBINED HANGING STRUTTING BEAM
N1 to N4 +0.63 or −1.0
C1 to C3 +0.95 or −1.44

Clause 2.7.2.4.
bending and shear. The following assumptions and modification shall be used:
use values of k4 appropriate for thickness as specified in AS 1720.1. For Action
(i) At supports—combined hanging strutting beams are assumed torsionally
restrained at their supports.
(ii) Between supports—combined hanging strutting beams are assumed laterally
restrained by ceiling joists at maximum 600 mm centres along their bottom
edge.

39 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 2.7.2.4(A)
STRENGTH
In bending P w
L /2 L /2
In shear P w
L /3 2 L /3

1 w = 1.35G 1 and P = 1.35G 2
2 w = 1.2G 1 and P = (1.2G 2 + 1.5Q 1 )
w = 1.2G 1 and P = (1.2G 2 + Wu ↓)
3
w = 0.9G 1 and P = (0.9G 2 + Wu ↑)
TABLE 2.7.2.4(B)
1 0.57
2 0.97
3 1.00


AS 1720.3:2016 40
TABLE 2.7.3.2
G2 G1
1
L /2 L /2
Q1
2
L /2 L /2

TABLE 2.7.3.3
Moisture content
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0

Table 2.7.3.4.
TABLE 2.7.3.4
2.8 CEILING BATTENS

2.8.1 Description
Ceiling battens are closely spaced continuous span members that are attached to the
underside of rafters, ceiling joists, floor joists or trusses and provide direct support for
ceiling linings (see Figure 2.8.1).

41 AS 1720.3:2016
Ceiling joist
C e i l i n g b at te n
FIGURE 2.8.1 CEILING BATTENS

Design for safety requires consideration of the strength limit state for bending.
(a) Permanent Permanent action, G (in kN/m), includes self weight and the mass of the
supported ceiling lining, with G determined from—
G = 0.12S + self weight . . . 2.8.2.2(1)
where
S = spacing of the ceiling battens, in metres
self weight = ceiling batten self weight, in kN/m
(b) Wind Wind action for the strength limit state is considered applied as a uniformly
distributed action, Wu (in kN/m), determined from—
Wu = quCptS . . . 2.8.2.2(2)
where
classification
S = spacing of ceiling battens, in metres
TABLE 2.8.2.2
FOR CEILING BATTENS
N1 to N4 +0.2 or −0.3
C1 to C3 +0.7 or −0.65

AS 1720.3:2016 42

Clause 2.8.2.4.
TABLE 2.8.2.3
STRENGTH
1. 3 5 G
1
1. 2G + W u 
2
0. 9 G + W u

The requirements of AS 1720.1 shall be applied to determine member design capacities.
The following assumptions and modification factors shall be used:
TABLE 2.8.2.4
1 0.57
2 0.94

(i) Unseasoned timber—for Action category 1, as defined in Table 2.8.2.3,
k4 = 1.0. For Action category 2, use values of k4 appropriate for thickness as
specified in AS 1720.1.
(c) Strength sharing For ceiling battens, k9 = 1.0.
(d) Member restraint For ceiling battens breadth is greater than or equal to depth and,
therefore, k12 = 1.0.
Only the serviceability limit state for permanent action is considered in design. Permanent
action for the serviceability limit state shall be as described in in Clause 2.8.2.2.

43 AS 1720.3:2016
2.8.3.2 Structural model for serviceability design

The structural model for which deflection is calculated shall be as shown in Figure 2.8.3.2.
FIGURE 2.8.3.2 STRUCTURAL MODEL FOR SERVICEABILITY DESIGN

TABLE 2.8.3.3
Moisture content Load duration factor (j 2 )
Seasoned 2.0
Unseasoned 3.0
2.8.3.4 Serviceability limit

The serviceability limit state is defined by limiting the calculated deflection to span/600.
2.9 CEILING JOISTS

2.9.1 Description
Ceiling joists are closely spaced members primarily intended to support ceiling linings
attached to their bottom edge. Ceiling joists also act to tie rafters together in coupled roof
construction; however, for design, the axial load is ignored (see Figure 2.9.1).
Permanent and imposed actions are assumed continuously applied along the bottom edge of
the joists. Imposed action due to construction or maintenance is considered applied as a
concentrated action to the top edge of the joists.
Two installation methods are considered. The first method requires a continuous overbatten
to be attached to the top edge of each joist at midspan and is applicable to both single and
continuous span joist applications. This over-batten acts to laterally distribute the
concentrated imposed action and provide intermediate lateral restraint to the joists. For the
alternative method, no over-batten is installed and design does not allow for any load
distribution or intermediate lateral restraint.

AS 1720.3:2016 44
H anging beam
C eiling j o ist
Raf ter
O ver- bat ten C eiling j o ist

spac ing
C eiling j o ist
span
FIGURE 2.9.1 CEILING JOISTS

(a) Permanent Permanent action, G (in kN/m), for ceiling joists supporting ceiling
lining (and battens, if appropriate), is determined from—
G = 0.12S + self weight . . . 2.9.2.2(1)
where
S = spacing of the ceiling joists, in metres
self weight = ceiling joist self weight, in kN/m
(b) Imposed Imposed action for ceiling joists is considered as a concentrated action,
Q (in kN), determined from—
Q = g42 1.4 . . . 2.9.2.2(2)
where g42 is a load distribution factor calculated as follows:
(i) For ceiling joists installed without an over-batten, g42 = 1.0.
(ii) For ceiling joists installed with a midspan over-batten:
(A) Bending—g42 is determined in accordance with AS 1720.1, for
concentrated loads on grid systems, assuming the rigidity of the crossing
member (over-batten), EcIc is equal to 1.73 × 109 Nmm2 and the number
of crossing members is one.
(B) Shear—g42 = 1.0.
(c) Wind The wind action, Wu (in kN/m), applicable for the strength limit state shall be
calculated as follows:
Wu = quCptS . . . 2.9.2.2(3)

45 AS 1720.3:2016
where
classification
S = spacing of ceiling joists, in metres
TABLE 2.9.2.2
FOR CEILING JOISTS—STRENGTH
N1 to N4 +0.5 or −0.35
C1 to C3 +0.85 or −1.0

Clause 2.9.2.3.
for load duration, k1. Values of k1 appropriate for each action category, as defined in
use values of k4 appropriate for thickness as given in AS 1720.1. For Action
(c) Strength sharing Strength sharing is ignored; k9 = 1.0.
(i) At supports—ceiling joists are assumed torsionally restrained at supports.
(A) For dead load and the dead load plus downward wind load cases the
bottom edge is assumed loaded and continuously restrained.
(B) For net upward wind load plus dead load, the bottom edge is assumed
continuously restrained.
(C) For the dead load plus live load case, with overbattens included, the top
edge is assumed loaded and restrained at midspan (Lay = 0.5 × span). For
ceiling joists installed without over-battens included, no restraint is
assumed (Lay = span).

AS 1720.3:2016 46
TABLE 2.9.2.4(A)
Structural models
Action category
1. 3 5G 1. 3 5G
1. 5Q 1. 2G 1. 5Q 1. 2G
2
L /2 L /2 L /2 L /2
1. 2G + W u  1. 2G + W u 
3
0.9G + W u 0.9G + W u
TABLE 2.9.2.4(B)
1 0.57
2 0.97
3 1.00

Only the serviceability limit state for permanent action is considered. Permanent actions for
calculation of deflection shall be as described in Clause 2.9.2.2.
The structural models for which deflection is calculated shall be as shown in Table 2.9.3.2.
TABLE 2.9.3.2
STRUCTURAL MODEL—SERVICEABILITY
G G

The requirements of AS 1720.1 shall be applied using the duration of load factor for creep
deformation as given in Table 2.9.3.3.

47 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 2.9.3.3
LOAD DURATION FACTORS
FOR DEFORMATION
Moisture content Load duration factor (j 2 )
Seasoned 2.0
Unseasoned 3.0

The serviceability limit state is defined by limiting the calculated deflection to span/400 or
12 mm maximum.
2.10 HANGING BEAMS

2.10.1 Description
Hanging beams are used to provide support for ceiling joists where supporting walls are
widely spaced. They are installed in the roof cavity above the ceiling joists which are
attached to the bottom edges of the hanging beams.
Design assumes that hanging beams are single span beams loaded and continuously
restrained by ceiling joists along their bottom edge (see Figure 2.10.1).
Ceiling joist
H an g i n g b e a m
H an g i n g b e a m
s p an
FIGURE 2.10.1 HANGING BEAM

Design for safety requires consideration of the strength limit state for bending.
The actions used to calculate the design action effects shall be as follows:
(a) Permanent The uniformly distributed permanent action, G (in kN/m), is determined
from—
G = 0.12(CLW) + 0.02(CLW)2 + self weight . . . 2.10.2.2(1)

AS 1720.3:2016 48
where
CLW = ceiling load width for the hanging beam, in metres
self weight = hanging beam self weight, in kN/m
(b) Imposed A concentrated imposed action, Q = 1.4 kN is considered.
(c) Wind The uniformly distributed wind action applicable for the strength limit state,
Wu (in kN/m), is determined from—
Wu = quCptS . . . 2.10.2.2(2)
where
classification
CLW = ceiling load width for the hanging beam, in metres
TABLE 2.10.2.2
FOR HANGING BEAMS—STRENGTH
N1 to N4 +0.2 or −0.3
C1 to C3 +0.7 or −0.65

Clause 2.10.2.4.
TABLE 2.10.2.3
1. 3 5G
1. 5Q 1. 2G
2
L /2 L /2
1. 2G + W u 
3
0.9G + W u

49 AS 1720.3:2016

bending. The following assumptions and modification factors shall be used:
TABLE 2.10.2.4
1 0.57
2 0.97
3 1.00

(i) Unseasoned timber—for action categories 2 and 3 given in Table 2.10.2.3, use
values of k 4 appropriate for thickness as given in AS 1720.1. For Action
(ii) Seasoned timber—k4 = 1.0.
(c) Strength sharing Where multiple sections of scantling timber are nail-laminated the
(d) Member restraint The following assumptions relating to lateral restraint are used:
(i) At supports—hanging beams are assumed torsionally restrained at supports.
(ii) Between supports—hanging beams are considered loaded and continuously
restrained along their bottom edge.
Table 2.10.3.2. Action cases given in Table 2.10.3.2 are divided into action categories for
the purpose of allowing for duration of load on stiffness as specified in Clause 2.10.3.3.

AS 1720.3:2016 50
TABLE 2.10.3.2
STRUCTURAL MODEL—SERVICEABILITY
G
1
2
L /2 L /2

The requirements of AS 1720.1 shall be applied using the duration of load factor for creep
deformation as given in Table 2.10.3.3.
TABLE 2.10.3.3

Moisture content
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0

Table 2.10.3.4.
TABLE 2.10.3.4
2 Span/270
2.11 COUNTER BEAMS

2.11.1 Description
A counter beam is a ceiling member, running parallel to ceiling joists and usually between
them, which provides support for hanging beams. The hanging beams are assumed butted to
the sides of the counter beam (see Figure 2.11.1).

51 AS 1720.3:2016
H ang ing beam
C o u nter b eam
C o u nter b eam
Ceiling joist
s pan
FIGURE 2.11.1 COUNTER BEAM

Design for safety requires consideration of the strength limit states for bending.
(a) Permanent Permanent actions include the distributed action due to self weight, G1
(in kN/m), and a concentrated action imposed by the hanging beams, G2 (in kN),
determined from—
G2 = 0.2(CLW)(L/2) . . . 2.11.2.2(1)
where
CLW = ceiling load width for the counter beam, in metres
L = span of the counter beam, in metres
(b) Imposed A concentrated imposed action, Q = 1.4 kN, is considered.
(c) Wind Wind action is considered as a concentrated action, Wu (in kN), determined
from—
Wu = quCpt(CLW)(L/2) . . . 2.11.2.2(2)
where
classification
CLW = ceiling load width for the counter beam, in metres
L = span of the counter beam, in metres

AS 1720.3:2016 52
TABLE 2.11.2.2
FOR COUNTER BEAMS
N1 to N4 +0.2 or −0.3
C1 to C3 +0.7 or −0.65

Clause 2.11.2.4.
TABLE 2.11.2.3
1.3 5G 1 1.3 5G 2
1
L /2 L /2
1. 2G 1 1. 2G 2 + 1. 5Q
2
L /2 L /2
1. 2G 1 1. 2G 2 + W u 
L /2 L /2
3
0.9G 1 0.9G 2 + W u 
L /2 L /2

The requirements of AS 1720.1 shall be applied to determine member design capacities.
The following assumptions and modification factors shall be used:
Table 2.11.2.3 are given in Table 2.11.2.4.
TABLE 2.11.2.4
1 0.57
2 0.97
3 1.00

53 AS 1720.3:2016

(i) Unseasoned timber—for action categories 2 and 3, given in Table 2.11.2.3, use
values of k 4 appropriate for thickness as given in AS 1720.1. For Action
(i) At supports—counter beams are assumed torsionally restrained at their
supports.
(ii) Between supports—counter beams are assumed torsionally restrained at
midspan by the supported hanging beams.
TABLE 2.11.3.2
G2 G1
1
L /2 L /2
2
L /2 L /2

duration of load for creep deformation as given in Table 2.11.3.3.

AS 1720.3:2016 54
TABLE 2.11.3.3
Initial moisture Load duration factor (j 2 )

content Action category 1 Action category 2
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0

Table 2.11.3.4.
TABLE 2.11.3.4
2.12 VERANDAH BEAMS

2.12.1 Description
Verandah beams support verandah roof loads imposed by rafters or roof trusses.
Verandah beams for single and continuous span applications are considered. Design
assumes the roof load is applied to the top edge of verandah beams as a series of
concentrated actions at 600 mm or 1200 mm centres corresponding to rafter (or truss)
spacings (see Figure 2.12.1).
Ver a n d a h b e a m
Raf ter or trus s
Raf ter or tr u s s s pac in g
Verand ah beam s pan
FIGURE 2.12.1 VERANDAH BEAM

55 AS 1720.3:2016

The actions used for determination of the design action effects shall be as follows:
(a) Permanent Permanent actions include the self weight of the verandah beam, G1
(in kN/m), and concentrated actions imposed by the rafters, G 2 (in kN), determined
from—
G2 = 0.01(RM)(RLW)SR + 0.02(RLW)2SR . . . 2.12.2.2(1)
where
RLW = roof load width for the verandah beam, in metres
RM = standardized roof mass, i.e. 10, 20, 40, 60 or 90 kg/m 2
SR = rafter spacing, i.e. 0.6 m or 1.2 m
(b) Imposed Imposed actions include a concentrated action Q1 = 1.1 kN and the actions
imposed via rafters, considered as concentrated actions Q 2 (in kN), determined
from—
Q2 = 0.25SR(RLW) . . . 2.12.2.2(2)
where
SR = rafter spacing, i.e. 0.6 m or 1.2 m
RLW = roof load width for the verandah beams, in metres
(c) Wind Wind actions are considered as concentrated actions, Wu (in kN), imposed via
the rafters and calculated as follows:
Wu = quCptSR(RLW) . . . 2.12.2.2(3)
where
classification
SR = rafter spacing, i.e. 0.6 or 1.2 m
NOTE: Horizontal wind pressure on verandah beams is ignored.
TABLE 2.12.2.2
FOR VERANDAH BEAMS
N1 to N4
+0.95 or −1.44
C1 to C3

AS 1720.3:2016 56
The structural models used to determine the member design action effects shall be as given
in Table 2.12.2.4(A). Action combinations shown in Table 2.12.2.4(A) are divided into
action categories that are used for the determination of member design capacity as specified
in Clause 2.12.2.4.
(i) Unseasoned timber—for action categories 2 and 3, use values of k4 appropriate
for member thickness as given in AS 1720.1. For Action category 1, k4 = 1.0.
(ii) Seasoned timber—k4 = 1.0 for all load categories.
(i) At supports—verandah beams are considered torsionally restrained at their
supports.
(ii) Between supports—
(A) the top edges of verandah beams are assumed restrained by rafters at
600 mm or 1200 mm centres as appropriate; and
(B) continuous span verandah beams are assumed restrained against buckling
at the points of contraflexure taken as one quarter of the span from an
intermediate support.
slenderness coefficient (S1) is taken as the breadth of an individual lamination and not the overall
breadth.

57 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 2.12.2.4(A)
Design action Structural models

effect Single span Continuous span
In bending P1 S P2 S P1 w P1 S P1 S P2 S P1 S P1 w
R R R R R R
L /2 L /2 L /2 L /2 L
In shear P1 P1 P1 P2 w w P1 P1 P2 P1 P1 P1
SR SR SR SR SR SR SR SR
1.5d 1.5d

1 w = 1.35G 1 and P 1 = P 2 = 1.35G 2
2 w = 1.2G 1 and P 1 = (1.2G 2 + 1.5Q 2 ) and P 2 = P 1 + Q 1
w = 1.2G 1 and P 1 = (1.2G 2 + W u ↓)
3
w = 0.9G 1 and P 1 = (0.9G 2 + W u ↑)
NOTES:
1 S R is rafter spacing, either 0.6 m or 1.2 m.
2 The number of concentrated actions considered will vary according to span, rafter spacing and locations
of concentrated actions.
3 Actions within 1.5d of supports are ignored in the determination of the design action effect in shear.
TABLE 2.12.2.4(B)
FOR STRENGTH
1 0.57
2 0.94
3 1.00

(b) Wind Wind action is considered applied by the rafters as a series of concentrated
actions, Ws (in kN), determined from—
Ws = qsCptSR(RLW) . . . 2.12.3.1
where
classification

AS 1720.3:2016 58
Cpt = net pressure coefficients as given in Table 2.12.2.2

SR = rafter spacing, i.e. 0.6 or 1.2 m
TABLE 2.12.3.2
Structural models
Action category
G2 G2 G2 G1 G2 G2 G2 G2 G2 G1
SR SR SR SR SR SR
L /2 L /2 L /2 L /2 L
Q2 Q2 Q2 Q2 Q2 Q2
SR SR SR SR
2
L /2 L /2 L /2 L /2 L
Ws Ws Ws Ws Ws Ws Ws Ws
SR SR SR SR SR SR
3
L /2 L /2 L /2 L /2 L
LEGEND:
S R = rafter spacing, 0.6 m or 1.2 m

TABLE 2.12.3.3
Initial moisture Load duration factor (j 2 )

content Action category 1 Action categories 2 and 3
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0

Table 2.12.3.4.

59 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 2.12.3.4
3 Span/200

AS 1720.3:2016 60
S E C T I O N 3 D E S I G N O F W A L L M E M B E R S
3.1 POSTS
3.1.1 Description
Posts are loadbearing columns designed to support axial loads arising from the vertical
support given to roofs and floors.
Posts may be incorporated within or installed separate from walls. Posts are not used to
replace common studs in external walls and are, therefore, not designed to support lateral
loads.
Posts are assumed laterally supported only at points of attachment to floor and roof
members (see Figure 3.1.1).
Po s t
Po s t
FIGURE 3.1.1 POSTS SUPPORTING ROOF AND/OR FLOOR LOADS

Design for safety requires consideration of the strength limit states in tension and
compression.
(a) Permanent Permanent action, G, is considered as the sum of the concentrated
permanent actions from supported roof and floor areas determined from
Table 3.1.2.2(A).

61 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 3.1.2.2(A)
PERMANENT ACTIONS
Source of action Permanent action, (G) kN
Floor 0.4A F
Roof:
Tile 0.9A R
Sheet 0.4A R
LEGEND:
A F = area of floor supported, in square metres
A R = area of roof supported, in square metres
(b) Imposed Concentrated imposed actions, Q1, Q2 and Q3 (in kN), arising from support
given to floor and roof areas are determined from:
(i) For posts supporting floor area (AF):
(A) Permanent live load—Q1 = 0.5AF.
(B) Transient live load—Q2 = 1.5AF.
(ii) For posts supporting roof area (AR)—Q3 = 0.25AR.
NOTES:
1 Imposed actions Q2 and Q3 are not considered to act simultaneously.
2 Units for areas AF and AR are square metres.
(c) Wind The concentrated wind action, Wu (in kN), applicable for the strength limit
state arising from support given to roof areas is determined from—
Wu = quCptAR . . . 3.1.2.2
where
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients for roof areas supported by posts, as given in
Table 3.1.2.2(B)
AR = roof area supported, in square metres
TABLE 3.1.2.2(B)
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR ROOF
AREAS SUPPORTED BY POSTS—STRENGTH
N1 to N4
+0.95 or −1.44
C1 to C3

Posts are designed as simple columns supporting an axial concentrically applied load.
Action combinations used to determine the design action effects in compression ( N c* ) and
tension ( N t* ) shall be as given in Table 3.1.2.3. Design action effects given in Table 3.1.2.3
are divided into action categories that are used for the determination of the corresponding
member design capacity as specified in Clause 2.8.2.4.

AS 1720.3:2016 62
TABLE 3.1.2.3
DESIGN ACTION EFFECTS AND
ACTION CATEGORIES—STRENGTH
Action categories Design action effects
N c* = 1.35G
1
N c* = 1.2G + 1.5Q 1
2 N c* = 1.2G + 1.5Q 2
3 N c* = 1.2G + 1.5Q 3
N c* = 1.2G + W u ↓ + Q 1
4
N t* = 0.9G + W u ↑

compression and tension. The following assumptions and modification factors shall be
used:
Table 3.1.2.3, shall be as given in Table 3.1.2.4.
(i) Unseasoned timber—for action categories 2, 3 and 4, use values of k4
appropriate for thickness as given in AS 1720.1. For Action category 1,
k4 = 1.0.
(c) Strength sharing Strength sharing is not considered to apply for posts, i.e. k9 = 1.0.
(d) Member restraint For the determination of the compressive capacity of posts the
effective length for buckling about either axis is taken as 0.85 times the post height.
Post height is the distance between supports and points of attachment to supported
floor and roof members, which are assumed to provide lateral restraint for both axes
of buckling.
NOTE: Nail-laminated posts are not considered in this Standard.
TABLE 3.1.2.4
1 0.57
2 0.8
3 0.94
4 1.00

Axial deformation of posts under the applicable loadings is small and for this reason
serviceability design for posts shall be disregarded.

63 AS 1720.3:2016
3.2 LOADBEARING WALL STUDS

3.2.1 Description
Loadbearing wall studs are the vertical components of a loadbearing wall required to
transfer tension or compression loads from supported floors or roofs and to transfer
horizontal wall loads, in bending, to the top and bottom wall supports.
Common studs support the vertical loads applied to the top wall plate by rafters, ceiling
joists or floor joists and the horizontal loads due to wind.
Jamb studs are studs at sides of openings that support loads from the lintel over the opening
and horizontal wind loads related to the width of the opening.
Studs supporting concentrated loads are studs installed in the wall, in addition to common
studs (or jamb studs), that are required to carry concentrations of vertical load arising from
support for principal roof or floor supporting members.
Special consideration is given for studs notched for the installation of bracing. For notched
studs, notches are assumed in either face of the wall penetrating to a maximum depth of
20 mm into the depth of the studs (see Figure 3.2.1).
NOTE: For maximum allowable stud heights refer AS 1684 series.
Raf ter or trus s

Raf ter or trus s Raf ter of trus s s pac in g
s pac in g
U p p er f l o o r
joist
S tu d h e i g ht
S tu d h e i g ht
S tu d
S tu d
s pac in g S tu d s p ac i n g
(a) S in g l e or u p p er storey (b) Lower storey
FIGURE 3.2.1 LOADBEARING WALL STUDS

Design for safety requires consideration of the strength limit states in compression, tension,
bending, combined bending and compression and combined bending and tension. For
notched studs the strength limit state for combined bending and shear at the assumed notch
location shall also be considered.

AS 1720.3:2016 64

(a) Permanent The concentrated permanent actions (G) considered axially applied to
common studs, jamb studs and studs supporting concentrated loads, in upper or single
storey walls or lower storey of two-storey walls, are determined from
Table 3.2.2.2(A).
TABLE 3.2.2.2(A)
AXIAL PERMANENT ACTIONS SUPPORTED BY STUDS
Studs
supporting
Common studs Jamb studs
Application concentrated
loads
Axial dead loads, (G) kN
Upper storey or single
storey—
(a) sheet roof 0.4(RLW)S 1 0.4(RLW)(W o /2 + 0.3) 0.4A R
(b) tile roof 0.9(RLW)S 1 0.9(RLW)(W o /2 + 0.3) 0.9A R
Lower storey of two-storey:
(a) Roof, upper wall and
floor—
(i) sheet roof [0.4(RLW) + 0.4 + 0.4(FLW) [0.4(RLW) + 0.4 + 0.4(FLW) —
+ 0.025(FLW) 2]S 2 + 0.025(FLW) 2](W o /2 + 0.3)
(ii) tile roof [0.9(RLW) + 0.4 + 0.4(FLW) [0.9(RLW) + 0.4 + 0.4 (FLW) —
+ 0.025(FLW) 2]S 2 + 0.025(FLW) 2](W o /2 + 0.3)
(b) Floor only [0.4(FLW) + 0.025(FLW) 2 ]S 2 [0.4(FLW) + 0.025(FLW) 2 ] 0.4A F
(W o /2 + 0.3)
LEGEND:
S1 = the greater of the rafter (truss) or stud spacing in the wall, in metres
S2 = the greater of the floor joist or stud spacing in the lower wall, in metres
Wo = width of opening in the wall, in metres
AR = area of roof supported by the stud, in square metres
AF = area of floor supported by the stud, in square metres
RLW = roof load width supported by the wall, in metres
FLW = floor load width supported by the wall, in metres
(b) Imposed Concentrated imposed actions, Q1, Q2 and Q3 (in kN), considered axially
applied to common studs, jamb studs and studs supporting concentrated loads, in
upper or single storey walls or the lower storey of two-storey construction, are
determined from Table 3.2.2.2(B).

65 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 3.2.2.2(B)
AXIAL IMPOSED ACTIONS SUPPORTED BY STUDS
Studs supporting
Common studs Jamb studs
Application concentrated loads
Axial imposed actions, (Q) kN
Q1 = 0 Q1 = 0 Q1 = 0
Upper storey or single
Q 2 = 0.25(RLW)S 1 Q 2 = 0.25(RLW)(W o /2 + 0.3) Q 2 = 0.25A R
storey
Q3 = 0 Q3 = 0 Q3 = 0
Q 1 = 0.5(FLW)S 2 Q 1 = 0.5(FLW)(W o /2 + 0.3) Q 1 = 0.5A F
Lower storey of two-
Q2 = 0 Q2 = 0 Q2 = 0
storey
Q 3 = 1.5(FLW)S 2 Q 3 = 1.5(FLW)(W o /2 + 0.3) Q 3 = 1.5A F
LEGEND:
S1 = greater of the rafter/truss or stud spacing, in metres
S2 = greater of the floor joist or stud spacing, in metres
Wo = width of opening in the wall, in metres
AR = area of roof supported by the stud, in square metres
AF = area of floor supported by the stud, in square metres
Q1 = long-term component of floor live load
Q2 = roof imposed action
Q3 = short term floor imposed action
(c) Wind Wind actions for studs are considered applied as axial concentrated actions
(Wua) and uniformly distributed lateral actions (Wuw). Values of Wua and Wuw, for
common studs, jamb studs and studs supporting concentrated loads, are determined
from the expressions given in Table 3.2.2.2(C).
TABLE 3.2.2.2(C)
AXIAL AND LATERAL WIND ACTIONS FOR STUDS
Studs supporting
Type of load Common studs Jamb studs
concentrated loads
Upper storey or W ua (kN) q u C ptr (RLW)S 1 q u C ptr (RLW)(W o /2 + 0.3) q u C ptr A R

single storey W uw (kN/m) q u C ptw S s q u C ptw (W o /3 + 0.3) Not applicable
Lower storey of W ua (kN) q u C ptr (RLW)S s q u C ptr (RLW)(W o /2 + 0.3) Not considered
two-storey W uw (kN/m) q u C ptw S s q u C ptw (W o /3 + 0.3) Not applicable
LEGEND:
q u = free stream dynamic gust pressure for the ultimate limit state; values of q u are given in Appendix A,
Table A2, for each wind classification
C ptr = net pressure coefficients for roof areas supported by the wall as given in Table 3.2.2.2(D)
C ptw = net pressure coefficients for walls, as given in Table 3.2.2.2(D)
S 1 = for wind down—the rafter spacing, in metres
= for wind up—tie-down spacing, in metres
Ss = stud spacing, in metres
W o = width of opening between jamb studs, in metres
A R = roof area supported, in square metres

AS 1720.3:2016 66
TABLE 3.2.2.2(D)
PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS
FOR ROOF AND WALLS—STRENGTH
Wind classification C ptr C ptw
N1 to N4 +0.63 or −0.99 0.9
C1 to C3 +0.95 or −1.44 1.20
NOTE: Positive pressure coefficient indicates an inwards
pressure.

The structural model used to calculate the member design action effects shall be as shown
in Table 3.2.5. For the determination of design action effects, axial actions are assumed
concentrically applied and maximum bending moments are as given in Table 3.2.2.3.
Action combinations given in Table 3.2.2.3 are divided into action categories that are used
for the determination of the corresponding member design capacity as specified in
Clause 3.2.2.4.
TABLE 3.2.2.3
STRUCTURAL MODEL AND ACTION CATEGORIES—STRENGTH
Structural model
Studs supporting
Common stud Jamb stud
concentrated loads
P = a x ial, c o n c e ntr i c l oad P P
Unifor mly L L
d i s tr i b u te d L w
later al l oad
(w)
M = 0.125wL 2 M = 0
NOTES:
1 For notched studs, the notch is
assumed located at mid-height.
2 M = cwL 2
where
(a) for L ≤ 2.4 m, c = 0.07;
(b) for L ≥ 4.2 m, c = 0.125; and
(c) for 2.4 < L < 4.2,
c = (0.0306L − 0.003).
1 P = 1.35G and w = 0
P = 1.2G + 1.5Q 1 and w = 0
2 P = 1.2G + 1.5Q 3 and w = 0
3 P = 1.2G + 1.5Q 2 and w = 0
P = 1.2G + W ua↓ + Q 1 and w = W uw
4 P = 0.9G + W ua↑ and w = W uw
P = 1.2G + Q 1 and w = W uw

67 AS 1720.3:2016

compression, tension and bending and in combined bending and compression and bending
and tension. The following assumptions and modifications factors shall be used:
(i) Unseasoned timber—for Action category 4 in Table 3.2.2.3, use values of k4
appropriate for thickness as specified in AS 1720.1. For Action categories 1, 2
and 3, k4 = 1.0.
(c) Strength sharing:
(i) For common studs—the strength sharing factor (k9) is applied for bending only,
assuming n mem = 5 and ncom = number of sections combined in a stud.
(ii) For jamb studs—the strength sharing factor (k9) is applied for bending only,
with nmem = 1.0 and ncom = number of sections combined in the jamb stud.
(iii) For studs supporting concentrated loads—the strength sharing factor (k9) is not
applied.
(d) Member restraint For the determination of bending and compressive capacity, the
following assumptions relating to lateral restraint are used:
(i) For bending:
(A) At supports—studs are assumed torsionally restrained.
(B) Between supports—studs are assumed torsionally and laterally restrained
by noggings; Lay = 1350 mm. In addition, the tension edge is assumed
laterally restrained at intervals not greater than 600 mm.
(ii) For compression:
(A) For buckling about the major axis the effective length of studs is taken as
g13L, where L is the height of the stud and g13 is determined as follows:
(1) For common studs:
L ≤ 2.4 m, g13 = 0.75.
L ≥ 4.2 m, g13 = 1.0.
2.4 m ≤ L ≤ 4.2 m, g13 = (0.139L + 0.417).
(2) For jamb studs—g13 = 0.9.
(B) For buckling about the minor axis, Lay is taken as 600 mm.
NOTE: For studs formed by nail laminating one or more sections together, the breadth of
section used to determine the slenderness coefficients (S1 or S4) is taken as the breadth of an
individual lamination.
(e) Notched studs For studs up to 125 mm deep, notched to a maximum depth of 20 mm
for the installation of diagonal bracing only, the bending capacity is determined as
0.6 times the bending capacity of an un-notched stud. The tensile and compressive
capacities are determined using the net cross-section at the notch as the effective
cross-sectional area.
NOTE: The method used for studs notched for diagonal bracing is based upon CSIRO BCE
Report, Notched composite beams, Dec. 97/169M, September 1997.

AS 1720.3:2016 68
TABLE 3.2.2.4
FOR STRENGTH
1 0.57
2 0.80
3 0.94
4 1.00

Only the serviceability limit state for lateral deformation shall be considered.
NOTE: The application of a serviceability limit state for serviceability wind pressure on the walls
is assumed to ensure adequate lateral rigidity for incidental horizontal live loads.
The distributed wind actions (Wsw) used for the serviceability limit state, for common studs
and for jamb studs, are determined from Table 3.2.3.2(A).
TABLE 3.2.3.2(A)
HORIZONTAL WIND ACTION—
SERVICEABILITY
Type of stud (W sw ) kN/m
Common stud q s C ptw S
Jamb stud q s C ptw (W o /3 + 0.3)
LEGEND:
qs = free stream dynamic gust pressure for the
serviceability limit state; values of q s are given in
Appendix A, Table A2, for each wind classification
C ptw = net pressure coefficient for walls given in
Table 3.2.3.2(B)
S = spacing of studs, in metres
Wo = width of opening in wall, in metres
TABLE 3.2.3.2(B)
FOR WALLS—SERVICEABILITY
Net pressure coefficient
Wind classification
for walls (Cptw)
N1 to N4
0.9
C1 to C3

The structural model used to determine deflection under a uniformly distributed lateral
action shall be as given in Table 3.2.3.3.
For studs notched for the installation of bracing the presence of notches shall be ignored in
the determination of deflection.

69 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 3.2.3.3
STRUCTURAL MODEL FOR DETERMINATION OF DEFLECTION
Structural model
For common studs For jamb studs
L ater al l o ad, w
L ater al l o ad, w
L L
NOTE: Max. deflection is calculated as follows: NOTE: Max. deflection is calculated as follows:
4
Deflection = cwL /(EI) Deflection = cwL 4 /(EI)
where where
(a) for L ≤ 2.4 m, c = 0.0042; c = 0.013
(b) for L ≥ 4.2 m, c = 0.013; and w = Wsw
(c) for 2.4 < L < 4.2, c = (0.0049L − 0.0076)
w = Wsw

Deflection of studs under the serviceability wind action specified in Clause 3.2.3.2 shall be
calculated assuming the structural model specified in Clause 3.2.3.3. No modification is
required for duration of load for this case.
The deflection of common studs and jamb studs under the serviceability wind action, given
in Clause 3.2.3.2 and calculated in accordance with Clause 3.2.3.4, is limited to
(stud height)/150, but not greater than 20 mm.
NOTE: This limit may not preclude damage to brittle surface finishes.
3.3 WALL PLATES FOR LOADBEARING WALLS

3.3.1 Description
Wall plates are the usually horizontal components in a wall frame to which the studs are
attached at the top of the wall frame (top plate) and at the bottom of the wall frame (bottom
plate).
Where load or support points for a wall frame are not closely aligned with studs, or tiedown
supports, then the wall plates in a loadbearing frame are designed to transfer load or support
from a rafter/truss or floor joist, as appropriate, to adjacent studs, or tiedown points for top
plates in upper storey or single storey walls. Where concentrated loads from girder trusses
or other principal roof or floor supporting members occur then special provision for support
of such loads (e.g. studs supporting concentrated loads, bridging or blocking) is assumed.
Wall plates are not designed to transfer horizontal loads laterally to braced cross walls;
ceiling and floor diaphragms are assumed to perform this function (see Figure 3.3.1).

AS 1720.3:2016 70
Raf ter or trus s

Raf ter or trus s
s p ac in g
To p p l ate
(s in g l e or
u p per storey)
U p p er f l o o r
joist spacing
U p p er f l o o r
joist
B ot to m p l ate
(s in g l e or
u p per storey) S tu d
B ot to m p l ate
S tu d (l ower storey of
t wo storeys)
S tu d
s p ac in g S tu d s p ac i n g
(a) Sing le or u p per storey (b) Lower storey
FIGURE 3.3.1 WALL PLATES FOR LOADBEARING WALLS

Wall plate design for safety requires consideration of the strength limit states for minor axis
bending and shear.
The vertical permanent actions, imposed actions and wind actions used for the
determination of the design action effects for top and bottom plates, in upper storey or
single storey walls and for lower storey walls of two-storey construction, shall be as
follows:
(a) Permanent—the concentrated permanent action, G, is determined from
Table 3.3.2.2(A).

71 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 3.3.2.2(A)
PERMANENT ACTIONS FOR WALL PLATES
Application Permanent action, (G) kN
Top plates G = 0.01RM(RLW)S R
Upper storey or single storey
Bottom plates G = 0.01RM(RLW)S S + 0.4S S
Top plates G = 0.01RM(RLW)S J + 0.4SJ + 0.4(FLW)SJ + 0.025(FLW) 2 SJ
Lower storey of two storeys
Bottom plates G = 0.01RM(RLW)S S + 0.8S S + 0.4(FLW)S S + 0.025(FLW) 2S S
LEGEND:
RM = roof mass allowance—
(a) 40 kg/m 2 for sheet roofs; and
(b) 90 kg/m 2 for tile roofs.
RLW = roof load width supported by wall, in metres
FLW = floor load width supported by wall, in metres
SR = spacing of rafters/trusses, in metres
SS = spacing of studs in wall, in metres
SJ = spacing of floor joists, in metres
(b) Imposed—the concentrated imposed actions, Q1, Q2 and Q3, are determined from
Table 3.3.2.2(B).
TABLE 3.3.2.2(B)
IMPOSED ACTIONS FOR WALL PLATES
Application Imposed actions, (Q) kN
Upper storey Top plates Q1 = 0 Q 2 = 0.25(RLW)S R Q 3 = 0

or single storey Bottom plates Q1 = 0 Q 2 = 0.25(RLW)S S Q 3 = 0
Lower storey Top plates Q 1 = 0.5(FLW)S J Q2 = 0 Q 3 = 1.5(FLW)S J

of two storeys Bottom plates Q 1 = 0.5(FLW)S S Q2 = 0 Q 3 = 1.5(FLW)S S
LEGEND:
SR = spacing of rafters/trusses, in metres
SS = spacing of studs in wall, in metres
SJ = spacing of joists, in metres
Q1 = long-term component of floor live load
Q2 = roof imposed action

AS 1720.3:2016 72
(c) Wind—the concentrated wind load, Wu, considered acting vertically on wall plates is
determined from Table 3.3.2.2(C).
TABLE 3.3.2.2(C)
VERTICAL WIND ACTIONS ON WALL PLATES
Application Wind action, (W u ) kN
Top plates q u C ptr (RLW)S 1
Upper storey or single storey
Bottom plates q u C ptr (RLW)S S
Top plates q u C ptr (RLW)S J
Lower storey of two storeys
Bottom plates q u C ptr (RLW)S S
LEGEND:
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure for the ultimate limit state; values
of q u are given in Appendix A, Table A2, for each wind classification
C ptr = net pressure coefficients for roof areas given in Table 3.3.2.2(D)
S1 = for wind down—rafter spacing, in metres
= for wind up—tie-down spacing along top plate, in metres
SS = for wind down—spacing of studs in wall, in metres
for wind up—tie-down spacing along top plate, in metres
SJ = spacing of floor joists supported by wall, in metres
TABLE 3.3.2.2(D)
PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR ROOF
Wind classification C ptr
N1 to N4 +0.63 or −1.0
C1 to C3 +0.95 or −1.44
NOTE: Positive indicates inwards (downwards) pressure.
The design action effects for the strength limit states shall be determined assuming wall
plates are three span beams loaded by equally spaced concentrated actions arranged as
shown in Table 3.3.2.3(A). The spacing between actions and the design spans assumed for
each type of wall plate are given in Table 3.3.2.3(B).
The design actions and the action combinations used for their computation shall be as given
in Table 3.3.2.3(C).
The design actions shown in Table 3.3.2.3(C) are divided into action categories that are
used for the determination of the corresponding member design capacities as specified in
Clause 3.3.2.4.

73 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 3.3.2.3(A)
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND ACTION CATEGORIES
FOR WALL PLATES—STRENGTH
Structural model
For determination of design action effect For determination of design action effect
in bending in shear
P SR P SR P SR P P P P
SR SR
L /2 L /2 L L 1. 5 d
L L L
LEGEND:
S R = load spacing [see Table 3.3.2.3(B)]
L = span [see Table 3.3.2.3(B)]
d = depth of plate
P = concentrated action [see Table 3.3.2.3(C)]
NOTE: For design action effect in shear, actions within 1.5d of supports may be ignored.
TABLE 3.3.2.3(B)
ACTION SPACING AND SPANS FOR WALL PLATES
Application Action spacing (S) Span (L)
Stud spacing except for uplift,
Upper storey Top plate Rafter/truss spacing
tie-down spacing
or single storey
Bottom plate Stud spacing in wall Joist spacing
Lower storey Top plate Upper floor joist spacing Stud spacing in lower storey wall
of two storeys Bottom plate Stud spacing in lower storey wall Ground storey floor joist spacing
TABLE 3.3.2.3(C)
DESIGN ACTIONS FOR WALL PLATES—
STRENGTH

1 P = 1.35G
P = 1.2G + 1.5Q 1
2 P = 1.2G + 1.5Q 3
3 P = 1.2G + 1.5Q 2
P = 1.2G + W u↓ + Q 1
4
P = 0.9G + W u↑

bending and shear. The following assumptions and modifications factors shall be used:
(a) Load duration factor—the member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k1). Values of k1, appropriate for each action category defined in
Table 3.3.2.3(C), are given in Table 3.3.2.4(A).

AS 1720.3:2016 74
TABLE 3.3.2.4(A)
1 0.57
2 0.80
3 0.94
4 1.00

(i) Unseasoned timber—for action categories 2, 3 and 4, use values of k4
appropriate for member thickness as given in AS 1720.1. For Action category 1,
k4 = 1.0.
(c) System-based effects—where multiple plates are used (ribbon plates) the system
factor (ks) given in Table 3.3.2.4(B) is applied.
TABLE 3.3.2.4(B)
SYSTEM FACTOR FOR STRENGTH
Multiple plate no. Load duration factor (k 1 )
2 1.14
3 1.2
(d) Member restraint—wall plates are bent about their weak axis and, therefore, k12 = 1.
(e) Composite action—for nail-laminated multiple plates (ribbon plates) composite action
is ignored.
(f) Trenching—the effect on strength of trenching up to 3 mm depth is ignored.
3.3.3.2 Structural model and action categories for serviceability design
Deflections shall be calculated assuming wall plates are three span continuous beams
supporting uniformly spaced concentrated actions P (in kN) with one action positioned at
the centre of an end span.
The design actions corresponding to the selected serviceability action combinations are
given in Table 3.3.2.4(B). Design actions given in Table 3.3.3.2 are divided into action
categories for the purpose of allowing for duration of load on stiffness as specified in
Clause 3.3.3.3.

75 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 3.3.3.2
DESIGN LOADS AND ACTION CATEGORIES—
SERVICEABILITY
1 P = G + Q1
P = Q2
2
P = Q3

duration of load factor for creep deformation, j2, given in Table 3.3.3.3 for action categories
as defined in Table 3.3.3.2. The effect on deflection of trenching up to 3 mm deep and any
composite action of nail-laminated ribbon plates shall be ignored.
TABLE 3.3.3.3
Initial moisture content Action category 1 Action category 2
Seasoned 2.0 1
Unseasoned 3.0 1

The limits on deflection corresponding to the serviceability limit states defined in
Clause 3.3.3.3 are given in Table 3.3.3.4.
TABLE 3.3.3.4
1 or 2 Span/200 or 3 mm max.
3.4 LINTELS
3.4.1 Description
Lintels are beams, contained within loadbearing walls, over windows or doors. They
transfer the vertical loads applied over the opening to the jamb studs on each side.
For single or upper storey walls, common lintels are designed to support regularly spaced
rafters or trusses. Design criteria are also included for lintels which, in addition to rafters,
support a concentrated load from a roof principal such as a strutting beam or girder truss.
Lintels in lower storey walls of two-storey construction are designed to support uniformly
distributed loads from the wall above including the roof loads supported by the upper wall
and loads from an upper storey floor.
Lintels are designed as part of a system that includes consideration of the contribution of
roof battens, wall plates, jack studs and lintel trimmers (see Clause 3.4.2.4).
For lintels, the limits on design deflections have been determined in order to maintain
clearances above the window or door frames contained within the wall (see Figure 3.4.1).

AS 1720.3:2016 76
Raf ter or trus s

Raf ter or trus s
s pac in g
J a c k s tu d
Lintel
tr i m m er Lintel
Lintel (s ing l e (l ower storey
S tu d or u p per of t wo storeys)
storey)
Lintel s pan
S tu d
Lintel s pan
(a) S in g l e or u p p er storey (b) Lower storey of t wo storeys
FIGURE 3.4.1 LINTELS

Design for safety requires consideration of the strength limit states in bending, shear and
bearing.
For lintels in single or upper storey walls, actions from rafters are considered applied as
regularly spaced uniform concentrated actions. Where action from a roof principal is
supported, an additional action related to the area of roof supported by the roof principal is
considered.
For lintels in lower storey walls, roof, wall and floor actions are considered uniformly
distributed.
Permanent actions, imposed actions and wind actions shall be as follows:
(a) Permanent The permanent actions considered include a uniformly distributed action
G1, regularly spaced uniform concentrated actions G2 and, where a roof principal is
supported, a single concentrated action G3. Values of G1, G2 and G3 are determined
from Table 3.4.2.2(A).

77 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 3.4.2.2(A)
PERMANENT ACTIONS
Application Permanent actions Unit
G 1 = self weight kN/m
Lintels in single or upper
storey walls—common G 2 = 0.01(RM)(RLW)S R kN
lintels
G3 = 0 —
G 1 = self weight kN/m
Lintels in single or upper
storey walls—additional G 2 = 0.01(RM)(RLW)S R kN
concentrated roof load
G 3 = 0.01(RM)A R kN
2
Lintels in lower storey of G 1 = self weight + 0.01(RM)(RLW) + 0.4(FLW) + 0.025(FLW) + 0.4 kN/m
two-storey construction G2 = G3 = 0 —
LEGEND:
RM = roof mass —40 kg/m 2 for sheet roofs
—90 kg/m 2 for tile roofs
RLW = roof load width supported by wall, in metres
AR = area of roof in square metres, supported by the lintel via a roof principal
SR = rafter spacing, 0.6 m or 1.2 m
(b) Imposed The concentrated imposed actions, Q1 and Q2, for lintels in single or upper
storey walls, and the distributed imposed actions, Q3, Q4 and Q5, for lintels in the
lower storey of two storeys are determined from Table 3.4.2.2(B).
TABLE 3.4.2.2(B)
IMPOSED ACTIONS FOR LINTELS
Application Imposed actions Unit
Lintels in single or upper storey walls—
Q 1 = 0.25S R (RLW) kN
common lintels
Q 1 = MS R (RLW)
Lintels in single or upper storey walls— Q 2 = MA R

kN
additional concentrated roof load where
M = 0.25 kPa
Q 3 = 0.25(RLW)
Lintels in lower storey of two-storey
Q 4 = 0.50(FLW) kN/m
construction
Q 5 = 1.50(FLW)
LEGEND:
AR = area of roof supported by the lintel via a roof principal
N = number of equally spaced rafters supported by the lintel
SR = spacing in metres of the equally spaced rafters, 0.6 m or 1.2 m
FLW = floor load width for the upper floor supported by the lower
storey wall, in metres
Q 1 , Q 2 and Q 3 = roof imposed action
Q4 = permanent floor imposed action
(c) Wind The concentrated wind actions for lintels in single or upper storey walls, WU1
and WU2, are determined from Table 3.4.2.2(C).

AS 1720.3:2016 78
TABLE 3.4.2.2(C)
WIND ACTIONS FOR LINTELS
Application Wind actions Unit
Lintels in single or upper storey walls—common lintels W U1 = q u C pt SR (RLW) kN
Lintels in single or upper storey walls—additional W U1 = q u C pt SR (RLW)
concentrated roof load kN
W U2 = q u C ptA R
Lintels in lower storey of two-storey construction (See Note below) —
LEGEND:
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure for the ultimate limit state; values of q u are
given in Appendix A, Table A2, for each wind classification
C pt = net pressure coefficient given in Table 3.4.2.2(D)
AR = area of roof supported by the lintel via a roof principal
SR = spacing in metres of the equally spaced rafters, 0.6 m or 1.2 m
NOTE: Horizontal wind action is not considered. Vertical wind action is only considered for
lintels in single or upper storey walls.
TABLE 3.4.2.2(D)
FOR LINTELS STRENGTH
Wind classification C ptr
N1 to N4 +0.63 or −1.0
C1 to C3 +0.95 or −1.44
3.4.2.3 Structural models, design actions and action categories

The structural models and design actions used to determine the member design action
effects shall be as given in Table 3.4.2.4. Action combinations shown in Table 3.4.2.4 are
divided into action categories that are used in the determination of corresponding member
design capacities as specified in Clause 3.4.2.5.
3.4.2.4 Design action effects in bending and shear
The design action effects applied to the lintel in bending and shear, M* (in kNm) and V*
(in kN) respectively, shall be determined from—
M* = M − 0.55k1 . . . 3.4.2.4(1)
V* = V − 7.0k1 . . . 3.4.2.4(2)
where
M = maximum bending moment, in kNm, determined using the design actions and
structural models given in Table 3.4.2.4(A)
V = maximum shear force, in kN, determined using the design actions and structural
models given in Table 3.4.2.4(A)
k1 = duration of load factor for strength given in Table 3.4.2.4(B) for the
corresponding action category given in Table 3.4.2.4(A)
NOTE: The above expressions include an allowance for the contribution made by parallel
members, such as roof battens and wall plates, in the support of the loads assumed applied to the
lintel. Where these contributions are unlikely to occur, such as where no wall plates are used or
the span is in excess of that used in conventional construction, use un-modified versions of M*
and V *.

79 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 3.4.2.4(A)
STRUCTURAL MODELS FOR LINTELS—STRENGTH
Structural model
Lintels in single or upper storey walls
Design action Lintels in lower storey
effect Lintels supporting additional of two storey walls
Common lintels
concentrated roof load
For bending P1 P1 P1 P1 (P 1+P 2) P 1 w
SR SR w SR SR w
L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2
For shear and P1 P1 P1 (P 1+P 2) P 1 P1 w

bearing SR SR w SR SR w
1. 5 d 1. 5 d
Action
Design actions
category
w = 1.35G 1 w = 1.35G 1 w = 1.35G 1
1 P 1 = 1.35G 2 P 1 = 1.35G 2 w = 1.2G 1 + 1.5Q 4
P 2 = 1.35G 3
2 — — w = 1.2G 1 + 1.5Q 5
3 — — w = 1.2G 1 + 1.5Q 3
w = 1.2G 1 w = 1.2G 1
4 P 1 = 1.2G 2 + 1.5Q 1 P 1 = 1.2G 2 + 1.5Q 1 —
P 2 = 1.2G 3 + 1.5Q 2
w = 1.2G 1 w = 1.2G 1
P 1 = 1.2G 2 + WU1 ↓ P 1 = 1.2G 2 + WU1 ↓ —
P 2 = 1.2G 3 + WU2 ↓
5
w = 0.9G 1 w = 0.9G 1
P 1 = 0.9G 2 + WU1 ↑ P 1 = 0.9G 2 + WU1 ↑ —
P 2 = 0.9G 3 + WU2 ↑
NOTE: S R is rafter spacing, either 0.6 m or 1.2 m.
TABLE 3.4.2.4(B)
1 0.57
2 0.80
3 0.94
4 0.97
5 1.00

AS 1720.3:2016 80

used:
(i) For unseasoned timber For action categories 4 and 5, use values of k4
appropriate for member thickness as given in AS 1720.1. For action
categories 1, 2 and 3, k4 = 1.0.
(ii) For seasoned timber k4 = 1.0 for all action categories.
(i) At supports—lintels are considered torsionally restrained at their supports.
(ii) Between supports—lintels are assumed torsionally restrained at 600 mm
centres.
slenderness coefficient (S1) is taken as the breadth of an individual lamination and not the
overall breadth.
(a) Permanent and imposed The concentrated and uniformly distributed permanent and
imposed actions applied to lintels are determined as described in Clause 3.4.2.2.
(b) Wind For lintels in single or upper storey walls, wind action is considered applied as
a series of regularly spaced uniform concentrated actions, W S1 (in kN), and, where a
roof principal is supported, an additional concentrated action, WS2 (in kN). WS1 and
WS2 are determined from—
WS1 = qsCptSR(RLW) . . . 3.4.3.1(1)
WS2 = qsCptAR . . . 3.4.3.1(2)
where
classification
SR = rafter spacing, 0.6 m or 1.2 m
RLW = roof load width for lintel, in metres
AR = area of roof supported by the lintel via the roof principal

81 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 3.4.3.1
FOR LINTELS (SERVICEABILITY)
N1 to N4
+0.63, −1.0
C1 to C3

Table 3.4.3.2. Load cases given in Table 3.4.3.2 are divided into action categories for the
TABLE 3.4.3.2
Structural model
Action Lintels in single or upper storey walls
category Lintels in lower storey walls
Lintels supporting of two storeys
Common lintels
concentrated roof loads
G2 G2 G2 G 2 (G 2 +G 3) G 2
G1 G1
SR SR SR SR G 1 +Q 4
L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2
Q1 Q1 Q1 Q 1 (Q 1 +Q 2) Q 1
SR SR Q3
SR SR
2
L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2
Q5
W S1 W S1 W S1 W S1 (W S1 +W S 2) W S1
SR SR SR SR
4
L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2
NOTE: S R is rafter spacing, either 0.6 m or 1.2 m.

The deflection of lintels is calculated taking into account the contribution of parallel
members by adding an allowance for their rigidity, EI = 15.9 × 109 Nmm2, to the rigidity of
the lintel.
The requirements of AS 1720 for the calculation of deflection shall be applied using the
duration of load factor for creep deformation as given in Table 3.4.3.4(A).
Table 3.4.3.4(B).

AS 1720.3:2016 82
TABLE 3.4.3.4(A)
Initial moisture content
Action category 1 Action categories 2, 3 and 4
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0
TABLE 3.4.3.4(B)
4 Span/200
3.5 WIND BEAMS

3.5.1 Description
Wind beams are horizontal members, located between upper and lower wall frames, which
transfer horizontal wall loads, in bending, to bracing walls.
Wind beams are used to transfer wind loads where there is no floor system located between
the upper and lower wall frames, such as may occur in stairwells. Wind beams transfer
these loads directly, or indirectly via diaphragm action, to suitable bracing walls
(see Figure 3.5.1).
Vertical roof and wall loads above the wind beam are assumed to be transferred directly to
the wall frame below the wind beam and are thus not considered in design.

83 AS 1720.3:2016
Raf ter or trus s
S tu d
Wind beam
Wind beam s pan
FIGURE 3.5.1 WIND BEAMS

(a) Permanent and imposed Wind beams are not considered to support any permanent or
imposed actions, including self-weight, as they are assumed fully supported by the
lower wall frame and are only required to resist horizontal wind loads. (G = 0, Q = 0).
(b) Wind Wind actions for wind beams are considered applied as uniformly distributed
lateral actions Wuw (in kN/m). Values of Wuw are determined from the following
expression:
Wuw = qsCptw(H1 + H2)0.5
where
qs = free stream dynamic gust pressure for the serviceability limit state;
values of qs are given in Appendix A, Table A2, for each wind
classification
Cptw = net pressure coefficient for walls given in Table 3.5.2.2
H1 = height of upper storey wall, in metres
H2 = height of lower storey wall, in metres

AS 1720.3:2016 84
TABLE 3.5.2.2
PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS
FOR WALLS—STRENGTH
Wind classification C ptw
N1 to N4 0.9
C1 to C3 1.2

Wind beams are designed as simply supported beams resisting a uniformly applied lateral
wind load, w = Wuw. Determination of the corresponding member design capacity is as
specified in Clause 3.5.2.4.
bending and in combined bending and shear. The following assumptions and modifications
factors shall be used:
for load duration (k1). Use k1 = 1.
(i) Unseasoned timber—use values of k4 appropriate for thickness as specified in
AS 1720.1.
(ii) Seasoned timber—k4 = 1.0.
(c) Composite action For nail-laminated multiple wind beam sections, composite action
is ignored.
(d) Member restraint For the determination of bending capacity, wind beams are
assumed torsionally restrained at supports and torsionally and laterally restrained
between supports by the upper and lower wall frames; Lay = 600 mm. In addition, the
tension edge is assumed laterally restrained at intervals not greater than 600 mm.
The serviceability limit state for lateral deformation shall be considered.
NOTE: The application of a serviceability limit state for serviceability wind pressure on the wind
beams is assumed to ensure adequate lateral rigidity for incidental horizontal live loads such as
may be experienced in construction and maintenance.
The distributed wind action (Wuw), used for the serviceability limit state, shall be as
specified in Clause 3.5.2.2(b), with the value of Cptw determined from Table 3.5.3.2.

85 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 3.5.3.2
PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR WALLS—
SERVICEABILITY
Net pressure coefficient
Wind classification
for walls (Cptw)
N1 to N4
0.9
C1 to C3

The structural model used to determine deflection shall be as for a simply supported beam
supporting the uniformly distributed lateral wind load.
Deflection of wind beams, under the serviceability wind action specified in Clause 3.5.3.2,
shall be calculated assuming the structural model specified in Clause 3.5.3.3 taking into
account the contribution of parallel members by adding an allowance for their rigidity,
EI = 10.6 × 109 Nmm2, to the rigidity of the wind beam. No modification is required for
duration of load for this case.
The deflection of wind beams under the serviceability wind action, given in Clause 3.5.3.2
and calculated in accordance with Clause 3.5.3.4, is limited to span/200, but not greater
than 15 mm.
NOTE: This limit may not preclude damage to brittle surface finishes.

AS 1720.3:2016 86
S E C T I O N 4 D E S I G N O F F L O O R M E M B E R S
4.1 FLOOR JOISTS

4.1.1 Description
Floor joists are closely spaced parallel beams supporting overlying flooring or decking.
Their primary purpose is to support floor loads. Floor joists may also be required to support
ceilings and loadbearing walls that run either parallel or perpendicular to the direction of
the joists (see Figure 4.1.1).
Ro of Ro of
l o ad s l o ad s
Fl o or b earer Fl o or j o i st
Lo ad b ear in g wall
Joist span
Joist span J o i s t s p ac i n g
FIGURE 4.1.1 FLOOR JOISTS

Floor joist design for safety requires consideration of the strength limit state for bending,
shear and bearing.
The values of the permanent actions and imposed actions used for design shall be as
follows:
(a) Permanent Uniformly distributed permanent actions, G1, and concentrated
permanent actions, G2, are determined from Table 4.1.2.2(A).

87 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 4.1.2.2(A)
PERMANENT ACTIONS
Distributed load, (G 1 ) Concentrated load, (G 2 )
Source of load
kN/m kN
Floor only:
—floor mass up to 40 kg/m 2 0.4S + self weight 0
2
—floor mass up to 100 kg/m 1.0S + self weight 0
Loadbearing walls supporting roof loads. Wall
perpendicular to joists but offset from supports:
—tile roof — (RLW × 0.9 + 0.4)S
—sheet roof — (RLW × 0.4 + 0.4)S
NOTES:
1 S = spacing of joists in metres and RLW = roof load width, in metres.
2 For any particular case, combine the loads from each source to obtain the total.
(b) Imposed Distributed imposed actions, Q1 to Q4, and Q7, and concentrated imposed
actions, Q5 and Q6, are determined from Table 4.1.2.2(B).
For the determination of the concentrated imposed action, Q5, a load distribution
factor (g42) is applied for the joist grid system as follows:
(i) For bending—the value of the load distribution factor, g42, for concentrated
loads applied anywhere within the middle half of the floor joist span and at
least two joists in from the edge, is determined in accordance with the
requirements of AS 1720.1 assuming the crossing member is flooring of the
following nominal rigidity:
(A) For joist spacing ≤450 mm, EcIc = 1.72 × 106 × L (Nmm2) and nc = 1.0.
(B) For joist spacing >450 mm but ≤600 mm, EcIc = 2.66 × 106 × L (Nmm2)
and nc = 1.0.
where
EcIc = flexural rigidity of the flooring
L = span of floor joists, in mm
nc = number of crossing members (flooring)
NOTE: The expression for rigidity, EBI B, given in AS 1720.1 is only valid for solid
beams where the contribution of shear to overall rigidity is allowed for in the values of
Modulus of Elasticity. For built-up sections such as I-sections or box sections, where
the effect of shear may be significant, an effective overall rigidity should be calculated
taking into account the effect of shear for the particular span and load case.
Alternatively, adopt g 42 = 1 for these cases.
(ii) For shear and bearing—g42 = 1.0.

AS 1720.3:2016 88
TABLE 4.1.2.2(B)
IMPOSED ACTIONS
Type of load Imposed action Unit
Permanent:
Q 1 = 0.5S kN/m
—UDL
Transient:
(a) UDL—general Q 2 = 1.5S kN/m
(b) Partial UDL Q 3 = 0.75S kN/m
(c) UDL—balcony or deck Q 4 = 2.0S kN/m
(d) Concentrated—general Q 5 = g 42 × 1.8 kN
(e) Balcony or deck line load (concentrated) Q 6 = 1.5S kN
(f) Balcony or deck line load (UDL) Q 7 = 1.5 kN/m
NOTES:
1 S = spacing of joists, in metres and g 42 as defined in 4.1.2.2(b).
2 Where a balcony or deck is less than 1 m above ground level, the transient UDL—
general may be replaced with Q 4 = 1.5S kN/m.
4.1.2.3 Structural models and action categories for strength

categories used for the determination of member design capacity as specified in
Clause 4.1.2.4.
used:
(a) Load duration factor the member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k1). Values of k1 appropriate for each action category are given in
Table 4.1.2.4(B).
(i) Unseasoned timber—for load categories 2 and 3 given in Table 4.1.2.4(A), use
values of k4 appropriate to thickness as given in AS 1720.1. For Action
(c) Strength sharing For sawn timber floor joists, the strength sharing factor (k9) is
applied, assuming nmem = 5 and ncom = 1.0. For other timber products k9 = 1.0.
assumptions regarding lateral restraint are used:
(i) At supports—floor joists are assumed rotationally and torsionally restrained at
their supports.
(A) The top edges of joists are assumed continuously laterally restrained.
(B) Continuous span joists are assumed restrained against buckling at the
points of contraflexure. That is, for the negative moment case, Lay = L/4.

89 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 4.1.2.4(A)
Load
category
1. 2G 2* 1. 2G 2*
1. 2G 1+1. 5Q 1 1. 2G 1+1. 5Q 1 1. 2G 1+1. 5Q 1
1
L /2 L /2 L /2 L /2
1. 2G 2*
1. 2G 1+1. 5Q 2
1. 2G 2*
1. 2G 1+1. 5Q 2
L /2 L /2
1. 2G 1+1. 5Q 2
L /2 L /2
0.8G 1
For balcony or deck joists only: For balcony or deck joists only: For balcony or deck joists
only:
1. 2G 1+1. 5Q 4
1. 2G 1+1. 5Q 4 1. 2G 1+1. 5Q 4
1. 2G 1
(Edge joists—substitute Q 7 for (Edge joists—substitute Q 7 for (Edge joists—substitute Q 7 for

Q4) Q4) Q4)
(1. 2G 2 +1. 5Q 5) (1. 2G 2 +1. 5Q 5) 1. 5Q 6
1. 2G 1 1. 2G 1 1. 2G 1
L /2 L /2 L /2 L /2
10 0
NOTES:
1 Concentrated loads, G 2 and Q5 , are considered applied at mid-span (as shown) for bending, or at 1.5d from
supports for shear, or at supports for bearing. G 2 does not apply where joists do not support loadbearing
walls perpendicular to the joists.
2 Action category 3—Imposed action Q 5 is considered to represent loads applied for short periods and at
infrequent intervals such as might be experienced during erection and maintenance or periods of crowd
loading. Where this is not the case consideration should be given to adopting a lower value of k 1 than that
given for this action category in Table 4.1.2.4(B).
3 Edge joists are joists located along the edge of a balcony or deck.
TABLE 4.1.2.4(B)
FOR STRENGTH
1 0.57
2 0.80
3 0.94

AS 1720.3:2016 90

Floor joist design for serviceability requires consideration of the serviceability limit states
for flexural deformation and dynamic behaviour.
Permanent actions and imposed actions used for the serviceability limit state shall be as
follows:
(a) Permanent The concentrated and uniformly distributed permanent actions are
determined as described in Clause 4.1.2.2(a).
(b) Imposed The relevant concentrated and uniformly distributed imposed actions are
determined as described in Clause 4.1.2.2(b) and as follows for an additional
concentrated action, Q8 (in kN):
Q8 = g41 × 1.0 . . . 4.1.3.2
Where g41 is the load distribution factor given in AS 1720.1 for point loads applied at the
mid-span of beams in a grid system. The factor g41 is calculated using the same assumptions
as used to calculate g42 in Clause 4.1.2.2 including the provision for considering the rigidity
of built-up versus solid sections. Where this provision is to be ignored, adopt g41 = 1.
NOTE: The limit on deflection resulting from the application of the Q8 action is intended to
ensure satisfactory dynamic performance. The application of this criterion replaces the need to
separately consider deflection due to the 1.8 kN concentrated imposed action for floors.
Table 4.1.3.3. The action cases given in Table 4.1.3.3 are divided into action categories for
the purpose of allowing for the effect of duration of load on stiffness, as specified in
Clause 4.1.3.4.
TABLE 4.1.3.3
Load
category
G2 G2
G 1+Q 1 G 1+Q 1
G 1+Q 1
1
L /2 L /2 L /2 L /2
Q2
Q2 Q2
Q3
2 Q6
10 0
Q8 Q8
3
L /2 L /2 L /2 L /2

91 AS 1720.3:2016

The requirements of AS 1720.1 for the calculation of deflections shall be applied using the
load duration factor for flexural deformation (j2) as given for each action category in
Table 4.1.3.5(A).
For the purpose of assessing the serviceability limit states, the limits on deflection for each
of the action categories detailed in Table 4.1.3.3 are given in Table 4.1.3.5(B).
TABLE 4.1.3.5(A)

Moisture content Action category 1 Action categories 2 and 3
(permanent loads) (transient loads)
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0
TABLE 4.1.3.5(B)
Limits on deflection
Action category
Single or continuous span Overhang (cantilever)
1 Span/300 or 15 mm max. Overhang/150 * or 6 mm max.
2 Span/360 or 9 mm max. Overhang/180 * or 4.5 mm max.
3 2 mm —
* Where the deflection at the end of the cantilever is upwards, the overhang/150 or
overhang/180 limit shall be ignored.
NOTE: The floor dynamics deflection limit for Action category 3 has been developed for
solid section floor joists up to 6 m spans. A tighter deflection limit may be required for larger
spans or where products with deflection characteristics different from solid sections, such as
I-sections, are used.
4.2 BEARERS
4.2.1 Description
Bearers are beams providing direct support for floor joists but in addition may support loads
from loadbearing walls supporting roof loads and/or from upper storey floors.
Design includes consideration of single, continuous or cantilevered span applications.
Concentrated permanent actions resulting from support to posts or intersecting loadbearing
walls at locations other than at or near bearer supports are not considered (see Figure 4.2.1).

AS 1720.3:2016 92
U p p er f l o o r
joist spacing
U p p er f l o o r
joist
Fl o or j o i st
B ot to m p l ate
To p p l ate
Load in g b ear in g
wall
B ot to m
Load b ear in g wall p l ate
Fl o or b earer B earer
s pan Fl o or b earer B earer
s pan
= p i er, stu m p or ot h er su p p or t
(a) Sing le or u p per storey (b) Lower storey of t wo storeys
FIGURE 4.2.1 BEARER SUPPORTING LOADBEARING WALL

Design for safety requires consideration of the strength limit states for bending, shear and
bearing.
The actions used for determination of the design action effects shall be as follows:
(a) Permanent The uniformly distributed permanent action, G, for each bearer type is
obtained by summing the loads from each applicable load source. Actions used for
each load source are determined from Table 4.2.2.2(A).

93 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 4.2.2.2(A)
PERMANENT ACTIONS
Distributed permanent action, (G)
Source of load
kN/m
Bearer supporting floor joists only 0.4 (FLW) + 0.025 (FLW)2 + self weight
Add the following, as applicable:
(a) Support to parallel loadbearing walls
—single storey 0.4
—double storey 0.8
(b) Support to roofs
—sheet roof 0.4 (RLW)
—tile roof 0.9 (RLW)
(c) Support to floor above 0.4 (FLW) + 0.025 (FLW)2
LEGEND:
FLW = floor load width, in metres, for the relevant floor
RLW = roof load width, in metres, for the roof supported by the bearer
(b) Imposed Distributed imposed actions Q1, Q2, Q4 and Q6 and concentrated imposed
actions Q3 and Q5 are determined for each application, as appropriate, from
Table 4.2.2.2(B).
TABLE 4.2.2.2(B)
IMPOSED ACTIONS
Permanent:
—due to floor directly supported Q 1 = 0.5(FLW) 1 kN/m
—due to floor above, if applicable +0.5(FLW) 2 kN/m
Transient:
(a) UDL—general
—due to floor above, if applicable +0.75(FLW) 2 kN/m
(b) Concentrated—general Q 3 = 1.8 kN
(c) UDL—balcony or deck Q 4 = 2.0(FLW) 1 kN/m
(d) Balcony or deck line load (concentrated) Q 5 = 1.5(FLW) 1 kN
(e) Balcony or deck line load (UDL) Q 6 = 1.5 kN/m
LEGEND:
(FLW) 1 = floor load width, in metres, for the directly supported floor
(FLW) 2 = floor load width, in metres, for a supported floor above
NOTES:
1 Roof imposed actions shall not be considered to be applied at the same time as
full floor imposed actions.
2 Where a balcony or deck is less than 1 m above ground level, the transient UDL—
balcony or deck may be replaced with Q 4 = 1.5(FLW) 1 kN/m.
4.2.2.3 Structural models and action categories for strength

Clause 4.2.2.4.

AS 1720.3:2016 94

used:
(i) Unseasoned timber—for load categories 2 and 3 given in Table 4.2.2.4(A), use
values of k4 appropriate to thickness as given in AS 1720.1. For Action
(c) Strength sharing For nail-laminated members, the strength sharing factor (k9) is
applied for the combined member, assuming n mem = 1.0 and ncom = number of
combined sections.
(i) At supports—bearers are assumed torsionally restrained at their supports.
(A) The top edges of bearers are assumed laterally restrained along the top
edge by floor joists spaced at 600 mm centres.
(B) Continuous span bearers are assumed restrained against buckling at the
point of contraflexure. That is, for the negative moment case, Lay = L/4.

95 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 4.2.2.4(A)
Load
category
1. 2G +1. 5Q 1 1. 2G +1. 5Q 1 1. 2G +1. 5Q 1
1
1. 2G + 1. 5Q 2
1. 2G +1. 5Q 2
1. 2G +1. 5Q 2
0. 8G
2
For deck bearers only: For deck bearers only: For deck bearers only:
1. 2G +1. 5Q 4 1. 2G +1. 5Q 4
1. 2G 1+1. 5Q 4
1. 2G
(Edge bearers—use Q6 if (Edge bearers—use Q6 if (Edge bearers—use Q6 if

Q6 > Q4) Q6 > Q4) Q6 > Q4)
1. 5Q 3 1. 5Q 3 1. 5Q 6
1. 2G 1. 2G 1. 2G
L /2 L /2 L /2 L /2 10 0
NOTES:
1 Concentrated action Q 3 is considered applied at mid-span (as shown) for bending, or at 1.5d from supports
for shear, or at supports for bearing.
2 Concentrated action Q 3 is considered to represent loads applied for short periods and at infrequent
intervals such as might be experienced during erection and maintenance or periods of crowd loading.
Where this is not the case adopt an appropriate lower value of k 1 than that given for this action category in
Table 4.1.2.4(B).
3 Edge bearers are bearers located along the edge of a balcony or deck.
TABLE 4.2.2.4(B)
FOR STRENGTH
1 0.57
2 0.80
3 0.94

AS 1720.3:2016 96

The permanent actions and imposed actions used to determine deflections for the
serviceability limit state shall be as follows:
(a) Permanent The uniformly distributed permanent action, G, is determined as
(b) Imposed Uniformly distributed imposed actions Q1, Q2 and Q3 and concentrated
imposed actions Q4 and Q5 are determined from Table 4.2.3.1.
TABLE 4.2.3.1
IMPOSED ACTIONS—SERVICEABILITY
Permanent:
—due to floor above, if +0.5(FLW) 2 kN/m
applicable
Transient (see Note below):
(a) UDL—general Q 2 = 1.5(FLW) 1 kN/m
(b) Partial UDL Q 3 = 0.75(FLW) 1 kN/m
(c) Concentrated load Q 4 = 1.8 kN
(d) Balcony or deck line load Q 5 = 1.5(FLW) 1 kN
LEGEND:
(FLW) 1 = floor load width, in metres, for the floor directly supported by
the bearer
(FLW) 2 = floor load width, in metres, for floor above, if applicable
NOTE: Only the transient imposed action on the floor directly supported
shall be considered.

Table 4.2.3.3(A). The action cases given in Table 4.2.3.3(A) are divided into action
categories for the purpose of allowing for the effect of duration of load on stiffness as
specified in Clause 4.2.3.3.
load duration factor for flexural deformation (j2), as given in Table 4.2.3.3(B), for each
action category in Table 4.2.3.3(A).

97 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 4.2.3.3(A)
Action
Single span Continuous span Cantilevered
category
G + Q1 G + Q1 G + Q1
1
Q2 Q3 Q2 Q2
2 Q4 Q4 Q5
L /2 L /2 L /2 L /2
10 0
TABLE 4.2.3.3(B)

Initial moisture
content Action category 1 Action category 2
(permanent actions) (transient actions)
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0

For the purpose of assessing the serviceability limit states, the limits on deflection used for
each of the action categories detailed in Table 4.2.3.3(A) are given in Table 4.2.3.4.
TABLE 4.2.3.4
Limits on deflection
Action category
Single or continuous span Overhang (cantilever)
1 Span/300 or 12 mm max. Overhang/150 * or 6 mm max.
2 Span/360 or 9 mm max. Overhang/180 * or 4.5 mm max.
* Where the deflection at the end of the cantilever is upwards, the overhang/150 or
overhang/180 limits shall be ignored.
NOTE: Floor dynamics is not specifically considered for bearers but may require
consideration in some design applications such as lightly loaded long span bearers.
Tighter deflection limits may be required under these conditions. The above deflection
limits are considered generally suitable for conventional solid section joist and bearer
spans.

AS 1720.3:2016 98
S E C T I O N 5 D E T E R M I N A T I O N O F U P L I F T
FORC ES
5.1 SCOPE AND GENERAL

5.1.1 Scope of Section
This Section describes how net uplift pressures and net uplift forces for the determination
of tie-down requirements are determined.
5.1.2 General
Net uplift forces are the difference between the ultimate uplift forces due to wind and the
factored gravity loads due to permanent action and any permanent component of imposed
action resisting uplift.
For the purposes of this Standard the uplift forces to be resisted for tie-down shall be
determined as the product of the roof area supported and the net uplift pressures given for
the level of the building where the tie-down is located.
For tie-down at bottom plate or subfloor level where overturning may contribute to uplift
and, therefore, height and width of the structure are also relevant, the uplift pressures shall
be equivalent values derived assuming the uplift load width is one half the building width.
The resulting values are upper bound values applicable where the ratio of height (h) to
width (w) does not exceed one (see Figure 5.2.2).
5.2 DETERMINATION OF NET UPLIFT PRESSURES

5.2.1 Roof uplift
Net uplift forces for tie-down connections between roof members or for the roof frame
assembly connection to supporting walls or directly to floor frames or concrete slabs shall
be as follows:
(a) Roof battens The net uplift pressures to be resisted by tie-down connectors at each
rafter, pu* (kPa) are determined from—
pu* = qu Cpt − 0.9G . . . 5.2.1(1)
where
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients for roof battens given in Table 5.2.1(A)
G = roof permanent action taken as 0.1 kPa for sheet roofs or 0.6 kPa for tile
roofs

99 AS 1720.3:2016
TABLE 5.2.1(A)
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR ROOF BATTENS—
UPLIFT
C pt
Wind classification Areas within 1.2 m Areas within 1.2 m
General areas
of an edge of an eaves corner
N1 to N4 1.0 1.8 −2.61
C1 to C3 1.44 2.25 −3.06
NOTE: The value of C pt for areas within 1.2 m of an eaves corner applies only to roof
slopes less than 10°. Where there is no internal pressure, such as in open verandah or
eave construction, a value of C pt = −2.7 shall be used for both wind classifications.
(b) Roof frame to wall or directly to floor frame or slab The net uplift pressure at each
tie-down, p u* (kPa), is determined from—
pu* = qu Cpt − 0.9G . . . 5.2.1(2)
where
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients for roof uplift as given in Table 5.2.1(B)
G = roof permanent action taken as 0.4 kPa for sheet roofs, or 0.9 kPa for
tile roofs
TABLE 5.2.1(B)
NET PRESSSURE COEFFICIENTS
FOR ROOF UPLIFT
C pt
Wind classification
Tile roof Sheet roof
N1 and N2 −1.0 −1.0
N3 and N4 −1.0 −1.0
C1 to C3 −1.44 −1.44
5.2.2 Net uplift pressures at bottom plate or subfloor level

The net uplift pressure ( p u* ) at bottom plate or subfloor level is determined as the greater of
*
the net uplift pressure due to direct uplift on the roof ( pu1 ) and the net uplift pressure
resultant from the overturning effect of wind pressure on the wall and roof due to lateral
*
wind ( p u2 ).
* *
The net uplift pressures, p u1 and p u2 (kPa), shall be as follows:
(a)
*
pu1 ( )
= qu Ka Cpe + Cpi − 0.9 G + Qp ( ) . . . 5.2.2(1)
where
classification

AS 1720.3:2016 100
Ka = 0.8; roof area reduction factor given in AS/NZS 1170.2 for areas greater
than 100 m2, applied assuming that for uplift the house above bottom
plate level acts as a ‘rigid box’
Cpe = 0.9; maximum value of external pressure coefficient for uplift
Cpi = value from Table 5.2.2(A) according to wind classification and location
where the net uplift is being determined
G = permanent action resisting uplift from Table 5.2.2(B) according to the
level where the net uplift is being determined
Qp = permanent floor imposed action resisting uplift from Table 5.2.2(B)
according to the level where the net uplift is being determined
TABLE 5.2.2(A)
INTERNAL PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS
FOR DETERMINATION OF NET UPLIFT PRESSURE
Wind classification Location C pi
N1 to N4 Bottom plate level +0.2
Subfloor level 0
C1 to C3 Bottom plate level +0.7
Subfloor level 0
NOTE: At bottom plate level, internal pressure on the roof contributes
to uplift, whereas for subfloors (either single, upper, or lower storey)
the internal pressure on floor and roof equalizes.
TABLE 5.2.2(B)
PERMANENT AND PERMANENT IMPOSED ACTION
RESISTING UPLIFT
Permanent imposed
Permanent action (G),
Location action (Q p ),
kPa
kPa
Sheet roof 0.4 + 2/W
Bottom plate level 0
Single or upper Tile roof 0.9 + 2/W
storey Sheet roof 0.8 + 2/W
Subfloor level 0.5
Tile roof 1.3 + 2/W
Sheet roof 0.8 + 4/W
Bottom plate level 0.5
Lower storey Tile roof 1.3 + 4/W
of two storeys Sheet roof 1.2 + 4/W
Subfloor level 1.0
Tile roof 1.7 + 4/W
(b) *
pu2 =
K c qu
W2
[ ( )( ) ( )(
C ptw h 2 − Cce1 − Cpi 0.75h 2 − 2hr h − hr2 − Cpe 2 − Cpi 0.25h 2 + 2hr h + hr2 )]
(
− 0.9 G + Qp ) . . . 5.2.2(2)
where
classification

101 AS 1720.3:2016
Kc = 0.8, the value for both Kc,e and Kc,i is in AS/NZS 1170.2 for four
effective surfaces including both internal and external surfaces.
Cptw = combined pressure coefficient for the windward and leeward walls
from Table 5.2.2(C) according to roof pitch (α)
Cpe1 = external pressure coefficient for the windward roof slope from
Table 5.2.2(D) according to roof slope ( α) and h/W ratio
Cpe2 = external pressure coefficient for the leeward roof slope from
Table 5.2.2(E) according to roof slope ( α) and h/W ratio
Cpi = internal pressure coefficient from Table 5.2.2(A) according to wind
classification and location where net uplift pressure is being
determined
h = height from lowest floor to single or upper storey ceiling level for
single or two storey, respectively
hr = (W/2) tan α, where W is width across the outer walls and α is roof
pitch (see Figure 5.2.2)
G = permanent action resisting uplift from Table 5.2.2(B) according to
level where net uplift is being determined
Qp = permanent floor imposed action resisting uplift from Table 5.2.2(B)
according to level where net uplift is being determined
W = overall width across external walls (see Figure 5.2.2)
TABLE 5.2.2(C)
COMBINED PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR WINDWARD
AND LEEWARD WALLS (θ = 0°)
Roof pitch ( α) α < 10° 10° ≤ α ≤ 15° α = 20° α ≥ 25°
Pressure coefficient (Cptw ) 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.2
TABLE 5.2.2(D)
EXTERNAL PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS
FOR WINDWARD ROOF AREAS
Pressure coefficient (Cpe1 )
h/W
Roof pitch (α)
ratio
<10° 10° 15° 20° 25° 30° 35°
−0.9 −0.7 −0.5 −0.3 −0.2 −0.2 +0.5
≤0.25 or or or or or or or
−0.4 −0.3 0 +0.2 +0.3 +0.4 0
−0.9 −0.9 −0.7 −0.4 −0.3 −0.2 −0.2
0.5 or or or or or or or
−0.4 −0.4 −0.3 0 +0.2 +0.3 +0.4
−1.3 −1.3 −0.1 −0.7 −0.5 −0.3 −0.2
≥1.0 or or or or or or or
−0.3 −0.6 −0.5 −0.3 0 +0.2 +0.3
NOTES:
1 Where two values are given, both values are considered.
2 Interpolation between the respective coefficients for the given roof pitches
and h/W ratios may be used to obtain more accurate coefficients for
intermediate values of roof pitch and/or h/W ratio.

AS 1720.3:2016 102
TABLE 5.2.2(E)
EXTERNAL PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS
FOR LEEWARD ROOF AREAS
Pressure coefficient (Cpe2 )
h/W ratio Roof pitch (α)
<10° 10° 15° ≥20°
≤0.25 –0.3 –0.3 –0.5 –0.6
0.5 –0.5 –0.5 –0.5 –0.6
≥1.0 –0.7 –0.7 –0.6 −0.6

103 AS 1720.3:2016
C p e1 C pe2
a
hr
C pi C pi
C pi C pi h
Sing le or u p per storey
b ot to m p late l eve l
C ptw W
C p e1 C pe2
a
hr
C pi C pi
C pi C pi C pi h
Sing le or u p per storey
su bflo or leve l
C ptw W
C p e1 C pe2
a
hr
C pi C pi
C pi C pi C pi
h
C pi C pi C pi Lower storey of t wo - storey

b ot to m p late l eve l
C ptw W
C p e1 C pe2
a
hr
C pi C pi
C pi C pi C pi
C pi C pi C pi
Lower storey of t wo - storey
su bflo or leve l
C ptw W
FIGURE 5.2.2 NOTATION

AS 1720.3:2016 104
SECTI ON 6 PRE SSURE S FOR

D E T E R M I N A T I O N O F R AC K I N G F O R C E S
6.1 SCOPE AND GENERAL

6.1.1 Scope of Section
This Section describes how equivalent pressures for use with projected areas, for the
calculation of racking loads to be resisted by bracing, are derived. The methods of
determination of equivalent pressures for the calculation of racking forces in orthogonal
directions for single or upper storey, for lower of two storeys and for subfloor level are
given.
NOTE: The information in this Section is extracted, with minor editorial modification, from
AS 4055 (Appendix A5). AS 4055 also provides a method of calculating racking forces based on
Area of elevation and lateral wind pressure, with wind pressures for various wind classes
tabulated in Section 5 of that Standard.
6.1.2 Notation
Notation symbols for this Section are as follows:
Hu = height, floor to ceiling for single or upper storey, in metres
HL = height, floor to ceiling for lower storey of two storeys, in metres
HF = depth of upper floor, in metres
W = width of building, in metres (see Figure 6.1.3)
L = length of building, in metres (see Figure 6.1.3)
α = roof pitch, in degrees (see AS/NZS 1170.2 and Figure 6.1.3)
θ = wind direction, in degrees (see AS/NZS 1170.2)
h = height to eaves, in metres (see AS/NZS 1170.2)
d = plan dimension of building or part of building parallel to the wind direction, in
metres (see AS/NZS 1170.2)
b = plan dimension of building or part of building perpendicular to wind direction,
in metres (see AS/NZS 1170.2)
Kc = pressure combination factor
Cpt,roof = combined pressure coefficient for the windward and leeward roof areas
Cpt,wall = combined pressure coefficient for the windward and leeward walls
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the ultimate limit state; values of
qu are given in Appendix A, Table A2, for each wind classification
6.1.3 Assumptions
The following assumptions have been made in the derivation of equivalent pressures for use
with projected areas for the determination of racking forces:
(a) The geometry assumed is a simple outline of the building, which ignores eave
overhangs, fascias and gutters. The projected area for the roof is taken as the area
above ceiling level for the single or upper storey (see Figure 6.1.3).
(b) Buildings are assumed enclosed underneath the lower floor.
(c) The floor depth of upper floors (HF) is assumed to be 0.3 m.

105 AS 1720.3:2016
(d) Hu = HL = 2.4 m. Pressures calculated for 2.4 m floor to ceiling heights are assumed
to apply for walls up to 3.0 m high.
(e) A pressure combination factor Kc = 0.8 is applied where the load effect is the result of
the combination of pressures on two or more surfaces. [Kc is not applied in
combination with the area reduction factor (Ka).]
(f) The assumed combined pressure coefficients for the windward and leeward walls
(Cpt,wall) for wind directions θ = 0° and θ = 90° are given in Table 6.1.3(A) and
Table 6.1.3(B), respectively.
(g) The assumed combined pressure coefficients for the windward and leeward roofs
(Cpt,roof) for wind parallel to the slope (pitch) of roof are given in Table 6.1.3(C).
Pr o j e c te d are a s
for d eter m i n at i o n
of s i n g l e or u p p er Hips
s torey r ac k i n g l o ad s (i f h i p - e n d e d r o of )
Ceiling
a
HuI 2
Hu
Fl o or
Hc
Ceiling
HL
Fl o or
EN D ELE VATIO N SIDE ELE VATIO N
Hips
(i f h i p - e n d e d r o of )
θ = 0°
Ridge
θ = 90°
PL A N
FIGURE 6.1.3 NOTATION

AS 1720.3:2016 106
TABLE 6.1.3(A)
COMBINED PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR WALLS—
WIND DIRECTION PARALLEL TO ROOF SLOPE*
Roof pitch ( α) α < 10° 10° ≤ α ≤ 15° α = 20° α ≥ 25°
C pt,wall 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.2
* Applies to general roof slopes ( θ = 0°) and hip ends ( θ = 90°).
TABLE 6.1.3(B)
COMBINED PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR WALLS—
WIND DIRECTION PERPENDICULAR TO ROOF SLOPE*
d/b ≤1 2 ≥4
C pt,wall 1.2 1.0 0.9
* Applies to gable or skillion roof ends ( θ = 90°).
TABLE 6.1.3(C)
COMBINED PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR ROOFS—
WIND DIRECTION PARALLEL TO ROOF SLOPE*
C pt,roof
Ratio h/d Roof pitch (α)
<10° 10° 15° 20° 25° 30° 35°
≤0.25 0 0 +0.5 +0.8 +0.9 +0.9 +1.0
0.5 0 +0.1 +0.2 +0.6 +0.8 +0.8 +0.9
≥1.0 0 +0.1 +0.1 +0.3 +0.6 +0.8 +0.8
* Applies to general roof slopes ( θ = 0°) and hip ends ( θ = 90°).
6.2 EQUIVALENT PRESSURES ON PROJECTED AREAS

6.2.1 For flat wall surfaces, gable or skillion roof ends
The equivalent pressure (p) on the projected area shown in Figure 6.2.1 for calculation of
the racking load for bracing in single or upper storey, or the lower of two-storey or subfloor
walls shall be determined from—
p = quCpt,wallKc . . . 6.2.1
where
Cpt,wall = 1.2, as given in Table 6.1.3(B) for d/b = 1
Kc = 0.8; pressure combination factor applicable for the combined effect of
pressure on two or more surfaces
NOTE: The assumption that d = b, i.e. L = W corresponds to the maximum combined pressure
coefficient for the walls.

107 AS 1720.3:2016
W W Wind
W
Wind direction
direction Wind direction
W W Wind W
Wind direction
direction Wind direction
FIGURE 6.2.1 FLAT WALL SURFACES—GABLE AND SKILLION ROOF ENDS
6.2.2 For side elevations, single or upper storey, gable or hip-ended roofs
The equivalent pressure (p) for the projected areas shown in Figure 6.2.2 for calculation of
the racking load for bracing in single or upper storey walls shall be determined from—
qu K c [C pt, wall ( H u / 2 ) + C pt,roof (W / 2 ) tan α ]
p= . . . 6.2.2
( H u / 2 ) + (W / 2 ) tan α
where
Cpt,wall = value from Table 6.1.3(A) for roof pitch, α
Cpt,roof = value from Table 6.1.3(C), for roof pitch α, and assuming (h/d) = (Hu/W)
Kc = 0.8; pressure combination factor
NOTES:
1 The assumption that h/d = Hu/W maximizes the assumed combined pressure coefficients for
the roof.
2 The reduction in projected area for hip-ended roofs has been ignored in the determination of
the equivalent pressures to be applied to the projected areas corresponding to either hip or
gable ended roofs.
W Wind
Wind direction
direction W
FIGURE 6.2.2 SIDE ELEVATIONS—SINGLE OR UPPER STOREY—

GABLE OR HIP-ENDED ROOFS
6.2.3 Side elevation, lower storey of two storeys or subfloor, gable or hip-ended roof
The pressure (p) on the projected area shown in Figure 6.2.3 for calculation of the racking
force for bracing in the lower storey of two-storey walls shall be determined from—
qu K c [C pt,wall ( H u + H F + H L / 2 ) + C pt,roof (W / 2 ) tan α ]
p= . . . 6.2.3
( H u + H F + H L / 2 ) + (W / 2 ) tan α

AS 1720.3:2016 108
where
Cpt,wall = value determined from Table 6.3.1(A) for roof pitch ( α)
Cpt,roof = value determined from Table 6.3.1(C) for roof pitch ( α) and assuming
(h/d) = (Hu + HF + HL)/W
NOTES:
1 The assumption that h/d = (Hu + HF + HL )/W maximizes the assumed combined pressure
coefficients for the roof.
2 The reduction in projected area for hip-ended roofs has been ignored in the determination of
equivalent pressures to be applied for projected areas for either hip- or gable-ended roofs.
W W
Wind Wind
d ire c t i o n d ire c t i o n
FIGURE 6.2.3 SIDE ELEVATION—LOWER STOREY OF TWO STOREYS

OR SUBFLOOR—GABLE OR HIP-ENDED ROOF
6.2.4 End elevation, single or upper storey, hip-ended roof

The pressure (p) on the projected area shown in Figure 6.2.4 for calculation of racking
loads for bracing in single or upper storey walls shall be determined from—
qu K c [C pt, wall ( H u / 2 ) + C pt,roof (W / 4 ) tan α ]
p= . . . 6.2.4
( H u / 2 ) + (W / 4 ) tan α
where
Cpt,wall = 1.2
Cpt,roof = value obtained from Table 6.1.3(C) for roof pitch (α) with h/d = Hu/L and
assuming L = W
W
Wind
d ire c t i o n
FIGURE 6.2.4 END ELEVATION—SINGLE OR UPPER STOREY—HIP-ENDED ROOF

109 AS 1720.3:2016
6.2.5 End elevation, lower storey of two storeys, hip-ended roof

The equivalent pressure (p) on the projected area shown in Figure 6.2.5 for calculating
racking loads for bracing in walls of the lower storey of two-storey walls shall be
determined from—
qu K c [C pt,wall ( H u 2 ) + C pt,roof (W 4 ) tan α ]
p= . . . 6.2.5
( H u 2 ) + (W 4 ) tan α
where
Cpt,wall = 1.2
Cpt,roof = value obtained from Table 6.1.3(C) for roof pitch ( α) and assuming
h/d = Hu + HF + HL)/L and L = 1.5W
W
Wind
d ire c t i o n
FIGURE 6.2.5 END ELEVATION—LOWER STOREY OF TWO STOREYS—

HIP-ENDED ROOF

AS 1720.3:2016 110
APPENDIX A
WIND CLASSIFICATIONS AND DESIGN WIND PRESSURES
(Normative)
A1 WIND CLASSIFICATIONS
The member design criteria, racking pressures and uplift forces given in this Standard have
been determined using wind classifications—
(a) N1 to N4 applicable for non-cyclonic regions A and B; and
(b) C1, C2, and C3 for cyclonic regions.
The wind classifications correspond to bands of design gust wind speed for the ultimate and
serviceability limit states. Wind classifications corresponding to the maximum design gust
wind speeds for the ultimate and serviceability limit states are given in Table A1.
TABLE A1
WIND CLASSIFICATIONS
Maximum design gust wind speed (m/s) Wind classification
Ultimate limit state Serviceability limit state Non-cyclonic Cyclonic
34 26 N1 —
40 26 N2 —
50 32 N3 C1
61 39 N4 C2
74 47 — C3
NOTES:
1 The above wind classifications have been adopted from AS 4055.
2 The above classifications may be adopted for design wind speeds up to 5%
greater than the maximum values given for each classification.
A2 DESIGN WIND PRESSURES

Design wind pressures shall be determined using the free stream dynamic gust pressures for
the ultimate and serviceability limit states as given in Table A2. The gust pressures in
Table A2 have been calculated from AS 4055 using the maximum design gust wind speeds
given in Table A1.
TABLE A2
FREE STREAM DYNAMIC GUST PRESSURES
Wind classification Free stream dynamic gust pressure (kPa)
Ultimate limit state Serviceability limit state
Regions A and B Regions C and D
(q u ) (q s )
N1 — 0.69 0.41
N2 — 0.96 0.41
N3 C1 1.50 0.61
N4 C2 2.23 0.91
— C3 3.29 1.33

111 AS 1720.3:2016
APPENDIX B
DESIGN OF OVERHANGS FOR BIRDSMOUTH NOTCHED RAFTERS
(Normative)
B1 GENERAL
Rafters are often birdsmouth-notched at their lower support point so as to provide bearing
to a wall and to permit an overhang.
The following design method, which differs from that given for notches in AS 1720.1,
applies for birdsmouth notches to a maximum depth of one third of the rafter depth.
The design method allows for the load sharing effect obtained when the overhanging ends
of parallel rafters are attached to a fascia and the connection and fascia are capable of
transferring load to adjacent rafters.
B2 EFFECT OF BIRDSMOUTH NOTCH ON RIGIDITY

In determining the deflection of the overhanging portion of a birdsmouth notched rafter, the
rigidity of the rafter (for both the overhang span and the backspan) shall be taken as g47ErIr,
where g47 is a birdsmouth geometry factor that accounts for reduced rigidity due to the
birdsmouth notch and (ErIr) is the rigidity of the unnotched rafter.
The birdsmouth geometry factor is bounded by the range 0.25 ≤ g47 ≤ 1.0 and in this range
is given by—
g47 = 1 − (5.7dnotch/Lo) . . . B2
where
dnotch = depth of the birdsmouth notch, in mm (see Figure B2)
Lo = horizontal span of the overhang, in mm
d dn
B ir d s m o u t h
d n o t c h ≤ d/3 M*
n otc h
V*
FIGURE B2 NOTATION AND SIGN CONVENTION

AS 1720.3:2016 112
B3 LOAD SHARING FOR PARALLEL RAFTER OVERHANGS

In the determination of the strength and serviceability limit states, concentrated and partial
area actions (P* and w*) applied to the overhanging portion of parallel rafters shall be
assumed laterally distributed to adjacent rafters such that the effective concentrated action
* *
( Peff ) or effective distributed action ( weff ) used for the design of an individual rafter is
obtained as follows:
*
Peff = g 45 P * . . . B3(1)
and
*
weff = g 45 w* . . . B3(2)
where
P* = design concentrated action
w* = design partial area action
g45 = the load distribution factor, which is bounded by the range 0.3 ≤ g45 ≤ 1.0 and
in this range is given by the following equation:
⎛h ⎞
g 45 = 0.2 log10 ⎜⎜ r ⎟⎟ + 0.69 . . . B3(3)
⎝ hf ⎠
where
Er I r
hr = g 47 . . . B3(4)
L3o
Ef I f
hf = . . . B3(5)
S3
g47ErIr = flexural rigidity of the rafter overhang, calculated in
accordance with Paragraph B2
EfIf = flexural rigidity of the fascia
Lo,S = horizontal span of overhang and spacing of rafters, respectively
B4 RAFTER STRENGTH AT BIRDSMOUTH NOTCH

B4.1 Bending strength
The design capacity in bending (ϕM) at the birdsmouth notch, for the strength limit state,
shall satisfy the following equation:
(φM ) ≥ M * . . . B4.1(1)
where
(φM ) = φk1k 4 k 6 k9 [ f b′ ]Z n . . . B4.1(2)
and
M* = design action effect in bending for negative moment as defined in
Figure B2
ϕ = capacity factor given in AS 1720.1
k1, k4, k6 = modification factors given in AS 1720.1
k9 = strength sharing modification factor for parallel overhanging rafters
rigidly connected to a fascia
= 1.24 − 0.24(S/Lo), but is not less than 1.0
113 AS 1720.3:2016
f b′ = characteristic strength in bending

Zn = net section modulus at notch
= (bd / 6), where b equals the breadth and d
2
n equals the depth of rafter
n
above the birdsmouth notch (see Figure B2) (dn ≥ 2d/3)

B4.2 Shear strength at birdsmouth notch
The design capacity in shear at the birdsmouth notch for the strength limit state shall satisfy
the following equation:
ϕV ≥ V* . . . B4.2(1)
where
φV = φk1k 4 k 6 [ f s′] As . . . B4.2(2)
and
V* = design action effect in positive shear (see Figure B2)
ϕ = capacity factor, given in AS 1720.1
f s′ = characteristic strength in shear
2
As = bd n
3
B4.3 Combined bending and shear (fracture strength) at the birdsmouth notch
For a rafter of depth (d), birdsmouth-notched to a maximum depth of one third of its depth,
as shown in Figure B2, the maximum bending moment action effect (M*) and nominal
maximum shear force action effect (V*), calculated for the net section, shall comply with
the following interaction equation:
6 M * 6V *
+ ≤ φg 50 k1k 4 k 6 f sj′ . . . B4.3
bd n2 bd n
where
b = breadth of the rafter
dn = net depth of rafter above the notch
ϕ = capacity factor, given in AS 1720.1
f sj′ = characteristic shear strength at joint details
g50 = coefficient for birdsmouth notch

(
= 18 d 0.333 )
If, according to the sign convention shown in Figure B2, M* is negative, it may be taken as
zero in the application of Equation B4.3. Similarly, if V* is positive, it may also be taken as
zero in the application of Equation B4.3.

AS 1720.3:2016 114
NOTES
115 AS 1720.3:2016
NOTES
AS 1720.3:2016 116
NOTES
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AS 1720.

Part 3: Design criteria for timber-framed

The following are represented on Committee TM-010:

• Australian Building Codes Board

This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR AS 1720.3:2015.

Keeping Standards up-to-date

Standards Australia welcomes suggestions for improvements, and encourages readers to

Part 3: Design criteria for timber-framed

SECTION 1 SCOPE AND GENERAL

SECTION 2 DESIGN OF ROOF MEMBERS

SECTION 3 DESIGN OF WALL MEMBERS

SECTION 4 DESIGN OF FLOOR MEMBERS

SECTION 5 DETERMINATION OF UPLIFT FORCES

SECTION 6 PRESSURES FOR DETERMINATION OF RACKING FORCES

Part 3: Design criteria for timber-framed residential buildings

1.1 SCOPE AND APPLICATION

1.2 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS

© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

1.3 OTHER METHODS

1.4 BASIS FOR DESIGN

www.standards.org.au © Standards Australia

1.4.4 System-based assumptions

© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

www.standards.org.au © Standards Australia

1.4.11 Serviceability limit states

© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

www.standards.org.au © Standards Australia

© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

2.1 ROOF BATTENS

FIGURE 2.1.1 ROOF BATTENS

2.1.2 Design for safety

Roof type Permanent action, (G) kN/m

www.standards.org.au © Standards Australia

© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

2.1.2.3 Structural models and action categories for strength design

Action category Structural model

2.1.2.4 Member design capacity

(b) Moisture content of timber:

2.1.3 Design for serviceability

2.1.3.3 Calculation of deflection

© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

2.1.3.4 Serviceability limits

Raf ter s pac in g Raf ter s pac in g

(a) S i n g l e s p a n (b) C o nt inu ou s s pan

FIGURE 2.2.1 RAFTERS

2.2.2 Design for safety

www.standards.org.au © Standards Australia

2.2.2.2 Design actions

Permanent action, (G)

© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

2.2.2.3 Structural models and action categories for strength design

2.2.2.4 Member design capacity

www.standards.org.au © Standards Australia

(b) Moisture content of timber:

© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

2.2.3.2 Structural models and action categories for serviceability design

2.2.3.3 Calculation of deflection

www.standards.org.au © Standards Australia

2.3 ROOF BEAMS—RIDGE OR INTERMEDIATE BEAMS

R i d g e b eam Supports Inter m e d i ate Supports