Factors Affecting the Racking Resistance of Timber Framed Panels

This paper deals with the various factors that affect the racking resistance of timber framed panels. The principal factors are the sheathing materials, the extent of vertical loading, the length of the panel, openings, holding down and the nail spacing. Other factors are generally of lesser importance. Test results relating to these factors are analysed, and a relationship is derived for each factor. The effects of outer claddings and inner linihgs are discussed very briefly. A simple design method for calculating the allowable racking resistance of panel assemblies is
suggested.

R.A. Robertson and D.R. Griffiths