Design

We design earthquake-resistant timber structures that meet all the requirements of mechanical resistance and stability of buildings as well. For such timber structures, the use of special fasteners is mandatory, which ensures adequate ductility of structures vs the ability to absorb seismic energy in a manner that ensures minimal damage to the building in the event of an earthquake.

Wood as a building material

Wood is an inhomogeneous natural material that has different properties in different directions. The mechanical properties of wood are highly dependent on moisture, so the wood must be adequately dry to the intended humidity before installation, depending on the load-bearing class. Wood can be used in various forms. We know sawn timber, one-way glued laminated timber LVL, cross-laminated timber CLT, OSB boards, etc. Wood has a high aesthetic value, is pleasant to the touch, has a high load-bearing capacity to its weight, but humidity can significantly reduce its load-bearing capacity or. affects the durability of wooden structures

Earthquake Resistance

Timber buildings are much lighter than reinforced concrete and steel ones, so they have a lower mass and consequently seismic forces as well. Although wood has a high ratio between load-bearing capacity and volumetric mass, it is necessary to ensure seismic resistance of timber structures according to modern European regulations EUROCODE 8 to ensure adequate horizontal rigidity of timber structures and last but not least the required ductility, ie the ability of timber structures to consume seismic energy at appropriate places and thus limit horizontal deformations what directly represents damages of the structure.

To achieve horizontal rigidity, the timber structure must have appropriate construction systems that provide with their dimensions and quality of wood the required values according to the regulations:
- skeletal systems of columns and beams with timber or. steel diagonals
- a system of panel walls made of timber frames with nailed cladding panels
- system of cross laminated CLT floor and wall panels

To achieve ductility, the panels must be properly anchored and connected with steel fasteners.

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