AS 1684.

1—1999 Residential timber-framed construction

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Part 1

Designc r i t e r i a (Incorporating Amendment No.1)

S t a n d a r d s A u s t r a l i a
 This Australian Standard was prepared by Committee TM/1, Timber Structures. It
was approved on behalf of the Council of Standards Australia on 10 October 1999
and published on 5 December 1999.

The following interests are represented on Committee TM/1:

Australian Building Codes Board
Australian Timber Importers’ Federation
Building Research Association of New Zealand
CSIRO, Building, Construction and Engineering
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Curtin University of Technology

Institution of Engineers, Australia
Master Builders Australia
Monash University
New Zealand Forest Research Institute
New Zealand Timber Industry Federation
New Zealand Timber Suppliers Group
Pine Australia
Plywood Association of Australia
Queensland Forestry Research Institute
Timber Research and Development Advisory Council of Queensland
University of Technology, Sydney

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This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR 97320.

 AS 1684.1—1999
(Incorporating Amendment No. 1)

Australian Standard™
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Residential timber-framed construction

Part 1: Design criteria

First published as AS 1684.1—1999.

Reissued incorporating Amendment No. 1 (February 2002).

COPYRIGHT
© Standards Australia International
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.
Published by Standards Australia International Ltd
GPO Box 5420, Sydney, NSW 2001, Australia
ISBN 0 7337 3040 X
 AS 1684.1—1999 2

PREFACE

This Standard was prepared by the Joint Standards Australia/Standards New Zealand
Committee TM/1, Timber Structures.
This Standard incorporates Amendment No. 1 (February 2002). The changes required by
the Amendment are indicated in the text by a marginal bar and amendment number against
the clause, note, table, figure, or part thereof affected.
This Standard is the result of a consensus of representatives on the Joint Committee that it
be produced as an Australian Standard.
The objective of this Standard is to provide users with the design methods, assumptions and
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other design criteria, which have been used in the preparation of the Span Tables, uplift
forces and racking pressures contained within AS 1684.2, AS 1684.3 and AS 1684.4.
Continued development of timber framing systems and the need to cater for a widening
variety of materials and design conditions have led to a total revision of structural framing
design. These developments include —
(a) provision for limit state design methods;
(b) revised/new structural grades for timber;
(c) provisions catering for open plan living — larger spans, wider openings and bigger
rooms, which need a more rational approach to bracing design;
(d) special ‘engineered’ and fabricated timber products;
(e) recognition of a wider range of high wind and cyclonic design; and
(f) computer-aided design software for member sizes, bracing and tie-down.
This Standard is a companion publication to the following:
AS
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
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 1684.1—1999

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 ............................................................................................................ 7
1.6 NOTATION ................................................................................................................ 8
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SECTION 2 DESIGN OF ROOF MEMBERS

2.1 ROOF BATTENS ..................................................................................................... 10
2.2 RAFTERS ................................................................................................................. 15
2.3 ROOF BEAMS—RIDGE OR INTERMEDIATE BEAMS ....................................... 21
2.4 UNDERPURLINS..................................................................................................... 26
2.5 STRUTTING BEAMS .............................................................................................. 31
2.6 COUNTER STRUTTING BEAMS........................................................................... 35
2.7 COMBINED HANGING STRUTTING BEAMS ..................................................... 39
2.8 CEILING BATTENS ................................................................................................ 43
2.9 CEILING JOISTS ..................................................................................................... 46
2.10 HANGING BEAMS.................................................................................................. 50
2.11 COUNTER BEAMS ................................................................................................. 54
2.12 VERANDAH BEAMS .............................................................................................. 58

SECTION 3 DESIGN OF WALL MEMBERS

3.1 POSTS ...................................................................................................................... 63
3.2 LOADBEARING WALL STUDS............................................................................. 66
3.3 WALL PLATES FOR LOADBEARING WALLS.................................................... 74
3.4 LINTELS .................................................................................................................. 80

SECTION 4 DESIGN OF FLOOR MEMBERS

4.1 FLOOR JOISTS ........................................................................................................ 88
4.2 BEARERS................................................................................................................. 93

A1 SECTION 5 DETERMINATION OF UPLIFT FORCES

5.1 SCOPE AND GENERAL ......................................................................................... 99
5.2 DETERMINATION OF NET UPLIFT PRESSURES ............................................... 99

SECTION 6 PRESSURES FOR DETERMINATION OF RACKING FORCES

6.1 SCOPE AND GENERAL ....................................................................................... 104
6.2 EQUIVALENT PRESSURES ON PROJECTED AREAS ...................................... 106

APPENDICES
A CHARACTERISTIC BEAM SHEAR STRENGTHS FOR F-GRADES ................. 110
B WIND CLASSIFICATIONS AND DYNAMIC GUST PRESSURES..................... 111
C DESIGN OF OVERHANGS FOR PARALLEL BIRDSMOUTH NOTCHED
RAFTERS ............................................................................................................... 112
 AS 1684.1—1999 4

STANDARDS AUSTRALIA

Australian Standard
Residential timber-framed construction

Part 1: Design criteria

S EC TION 1 S C OP E AND G E NER A L

1.1 SCOPE AND APPLICATION

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1.1.1 Scope
This Standard sets out the design methods, assumptions and other criteria used in the
preparation of the Span Tables, uplift forces and racking pressures contained within
AS 1684.2, AS 1684.3 and AS 1684.4.
The design criteria apply for the preparation of design data for traditional timber-framed
construction where the loading and performance requirements correspond to those for
Class 1 and Class 10 buildings as defined by the Building Code of Australia.
This Standard should be read in conjunction with AS 1684.2, AS 1684.3 and AS 1684.4, the
AS 1170 series, and AS 1720.1.
NOTE: Whilst this Standard may be used as a reference for the design of Class 10 buildings, less
conservative levels of design for this building class may be permitted by building regulations and
other Australian Standards.
1.1.2 Application
The design criteria contained herein may be used as a basis for the preparation of Span
Tables and design data for structural wood products, having stress grades and sizes other
than those included in AS 1684.2, AS 1684.3 and AS 1684.4 where the application and
performance are claimed to be consistent with AS 1684.2, AS 1684.3 and AS 1684.4.
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 Minimum design loads on structures (known as the SAA Loading Code)
1170.1 Part 1: Dead and live loads and load combinations
1170.2 Part 2: Wind loads
1170.3 Part 3: Snow loads
1170.4 Part 4: Earthquake loads
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

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 5 AS 1684.1—1999

AS
4055 Wind loads for housing
CSIRO Low-rise domestic and similar framed structures
Part 1: Design criteria (revised 1978)

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.

1.4 BASIS FOR DESIGN

1.4.1 General
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The design criteria contained in this Standard are an interpretation of the AS 1170 series,
and AS 1720.1. The criteria have been formulated for the preparation of generalized design
data for houses constructed using the traditionally evolved timber framing system as
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 for houses have been assumed:
(a) The overall 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 definitions of these limitations refer to AS 1684.2, AS 1684.3 and AS 1684.4.
1.4.3 Design methods
The design methods used are based upon analytical and engineering principles and comply
with the requirements of AS 1720.1.
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: Changes in materials (both structural and non-structural) and the use of 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.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 6

1.4.6 Structural timber

Member design for Span Tables in AS 1684.2, AS 1684.3 and AS 1684.4, is based upon the
use of generic stress grades of scantling timber.
NOTE: For other materials, 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 stress grades and strength groups have been
used for design, except for F-grades the characteristic beam shear strengths given in
Appendix A have been used.
1.4.8 Effect of temperature on strength
The modification factor for the effect of temperature on strength (k 6 ) has been taken as
unity regardless of location.
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1.4.9 Design loads

1.4.9.1 Dead loads
Dead loads are based upon standardized allowances for the mass of roof, wall and floor
constructions.
NOTE: Where mass allowances different from those referred in the Standard are used, then such
variation should be noted in any published data.
1.4.9.2 Live loads
Generally, the live loads used for design correspond to those given in AS 1170.1. The
following departures and interpretations have been used:
2
(a) The partial-area live load for floor areas less than 10 m is not considered.
(b) The permanent component of floor live load is taken as 0.5 kPa.
(c) To allow for balconies or decks 1 m or more above the ground, the cantilevered
portion of floor joists and bearers and the main spans of floor joists and bearers for
decks are designed for 3.0 kPa floor live load for the strength limit states and 1.5 kPa
for the serviceability limit state.
(d) The area used to calculate the distributed roof live load resultant from stacked
materials or equipment used in repair or maintenance is taken as the area supported in
the plane of the roof and not the plan projected area.
(e) The occasional loading on roof and ceiling members is taken as 1.1 kN.
NOTE: Live loads specific to construction, for example, loads resulting from the use of fall
protection devices or scaffolding attached to the structure, are not considered.
1.4.9.3 Wind loads
The free stream dynamic pressures for the strength limit state and the serviceability limit
state are derived using AS 1170.2 for design wind speeds corresponding to wind
classifications N1 to N4 and C1 to C3 as specified in Appendix B.
1.4.9.4 Snow loads
Snow loads, determined in accordance with AS 1170.3, up to 0.2 kPa have been considered
and determined as not critical. For this reason, snow loading is not included in the load
combinations given for member design in this Standard.

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 7 AS 1684.1—1999

1.4.9.5 Earthquake loads

Earthquake loads for earthquake load categories H1 and H2, that is for domestic structures,
have been determined in accordance with AS 1170.4 and found not critical for design. For
this reason, earthquake loads are not included in the load combinations given for member
design or for the methods of determination of racking loads in AS 1684.2 and AS 1684.3.
1.4.9.6 Load combinations
Load combinations included for the determination of the strength limit states and the
serviceability limit states for each member are those determined appropriate in accordance
with AS 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.
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NOTE: For other timber-based products, design may require consideration of strength limit states
other than those included in this Standard.
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, then it is anticipated that
larger sizes and or materials with higher or more uniform modulus of elasticity will be used
(see AS 1720.1).
2 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 including a deck that is 1 m or more above
ground level.
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.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 8

1.5.5 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 is not.
1.5.6 Generic stress grades
Stress grades for which properties are included in AS 1720.1.
1.5.7 Lining
The materials used for the internal faces of walls or ceilings.
1.5.8 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.
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1.5.9 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.
1.5.10 Non-loadbearing walls
Partition walls not supporting roofs or floors. Non-loadbearing walls may support ceilings.
NOTE: This definition differs from that given in the Building Code of Australia.
1.5.11 Sheet roofing
Includes sheet metal tile panels and other metal deck roofing of mass up to 10 kg/m2 .
1.5.12 Span
The face to face distance between supports of a structural member measured along the axis
of the member.
NOTES:
1 This definition differs from that given in AS 1720.1
2 Truss spans have traditionally been measured from outside to outside of pitching plates.
1.5.13 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.
1.5.14 Tie-down
The connections or fixings designed to resist uplift forces due to wind.
1.5.15 Tiled roofing
Includes slate, terracotta and concrete tiles of mass up to 60 kg/m2 .
1.5.16 Wall/brick tie
A bracket connecting brick cladding to a timber wall frame.

1.6 NOTATION
Generally, the notation used in AS 1720.1 and the AS 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

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 9 AS 1684.1—1999

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
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 AS 1684.1—1999 10

S EC TION 2 DES IG N O F R O OF MEM BER 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).

Roof batten
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Rafter or truss
Batten
spacing

n
t te
B a pa n
s

Batten overhang

FIGURE 2.1 ROOF BATTENS

2.1.2 Design for Safety

2.1.2.1 General consideration
Design for safety includes consideration of the strength limit states for bending about the
minor axis only and shear.
NOTE: Battens are assumed to be prevented from bending in the plane of the roof by the attached
cladding.
2.1.2.2 Loads
The loads used for the determination of the design action effects are determined as follows:
(a) Dead loads (G) Dead loads, corresponding to the typical roof constructions, are
determined as in Table 2.1.1.
TABLE 2.1.1
DEAD LOAD FOR ROOF BATTENS
Roof type Dead load, G (kN/m)
Sheet roof 0.1S + self weight
Tile roof 0.6S + self weight

NOTE: S = spacing of roof battens, in metres.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au
 11 AS 1684.1—1999

(b) Live loads The uniformly distributed live load, Q1 (in kN/m), and concentrated live
loads, Q2 and Q3 (both in kN), used for design are obtained as follows:
(i) Q1 = g44 × (0.9/L + 0.12S) . . . 2.1.2(1)
(ii) Q2 = g44 × 1.1 . . . 2.1.2(2)
(iii) Q3 = g45 × 1.1 . . . 2.1.2(3)
where
g44 = the lesser of 1.33S and 1.0
L = span of roof battens, in metres
S = spacing of roof battens, in metres
and
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g45 is calculated in accordance with Paragraph B3, Appendix B, assuming a

bargeboard of rigidity E fI f = 18 × 10 Nmm is attached to the ends of the
9 2

parallel overhanging battens, and g 47 = 1.0 (i.e. no birdsmouth notch).

NOTES:
1 The formula for distributed live load is derived from the formula for roof live load given
in AS 1170.1, where the plan area is taken as 2LS and is always less than 14 m2 for the
spans and spacings considered.
2 The load distribution factor g 44 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 midspan
of closely spaced battens prior to the installation of roof claddings.
(c) Wind load The wind load, Wu (in kN/m), applicable for the strength limit state, is
calculated as follows:
Wu = qu Cpt S . . . 2.1.2(4)
where
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the ultimate limit state;
values of q u are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients given in Table 2.1.2
S = spacing of roof battens, in metres

TABLE 2.1.2
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR ROOF BATTENS
C pt
Wind classification
General areas Areas within 1.2 m of an edge
N1 to N4
+0.7, −1.1 − 2.0
C1 to C3

NOTES:
1 Local pressure effects are catered for in AS 1684.2, AS 1684.3 and AS 1684.4 by
notes attached to Span Tables specifying reductions in batten spacing near edges,
as appropriate.
2 Values given in this Table are based on the assumption that a separate ceiling is
provided and a maximum internal pressure coefficient (C pi ) in the roof cavity of
+0.2 for both cyclonic and non-cyclonic regions.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 12

2.1.2.3 Structural models and load categories for strength design

The structural models used to calculate the member design action effects are given in
Table 2.1.3. Load combinations shown in Table 2.1.3 are divided into load categories that
are used for the determination of member design capacity as specified in Clause 2.1.2.4.

TABLE 2.1.3
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — STRENGTH
Load category Structural model

1.25G
1

1.25G + 1.5Q1
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1.5Q2
1.25G

L/2 L/2
3
1.25G 1.5Q3

100

0.8G + Wu↑

4
1.25G + Wu↓

2.1.2.4 Member design capacity

The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied to determine member design capacities in
bending and shear. The following assumptions and modification factors are used:
(a) Load duration factor The member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k1). Values of k 1 appropriate for each load category are given in
Table 2.1.4.
TABLE 2.1.4

LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH

Load category Load duration factor (k 1 )
1 0.57
2 0.94
3 1.00
4 1.15

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 13 AS 1684.1—1999

(b) Moisture content of timber:

(i) Unseasoned timber — for load category 3 given in Table 2.1.3, values of k 4
appropriate for thickness as specified in AS 1720.1 are used. For load
categories 1 and 2, k4 = 1.0.
(ii) Seasoned timber — k4 = 1.0 for all load categories.
(c) Member restraint For battens, breadth is greater than or equal to depth and, hence,
the lateral stability factor k 12 = 1.0.
2.1.3 Design for serviceability
2.1.3.1 Loads
The loads used for the serviceability limit states are given as follows:
(a) Dead load (G) Dead loads corresponding to various typical roof constructions are
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determined as in Table 2.1.1.

(b) Wind load The uniformly distributed wind load, Ws (in kN/m), applicable for the
serviceability limit state is calculated as follows:
Ws = q s Cpt S . . . 2.1.3
where
qs = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the serviceability limit
state; values of qs are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients given in Table 2.1.2
S = spacing of roof battens, in metres
2.1.3.2 Structural models and load categories for serviceability design
The structural models for which deflections are calculated are given in Table 2.1.5. Load
cases included in Table 2.1.5 are divided into load categories for the purpose of allowing
for the effect of duration of load on stiffness as specified in Clause 2.1.3.3.

TABLE 2.1.5
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — SERVICEABILITY
Load
Structural models
category

G G

Ws↑ Ws↓
2

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 AS 1684.1—1999 14

2.1.3.3 Calculation of deflection

The requirements of AS 1720.1 for the calculation of deformation are applied using the
duration of load factor for creep deformation as given in Table 2.1.6.

TABLE 2.1.6
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR DEFORMATION
Load duration factor (j2)
Moisture content Load category 1 Load category 2
(permanent loads) (transient loads)
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0
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2.1.3.4 Serviceability limits

The limits on deflection defining the serviceability limit state are given in Table 2.1.7.

TABLE 2.1.7
LIMITS ON DEFLECTION
Deflection limits
Load category
Midspan End of overhang
Overhang/150* or 4 mm
1 Span/300
whichever is greater
2 Span/150 No limitation
* Ignore limit for upwards deflection

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 15 AS 1684.1—1999

2.2 RAFTERS
2.2.1 Description
Rafters are roof members which 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 which acts to share any concentrated or partial area loads to adjacent
members (see Figure 2.2).

Rafter spacing Rafter spacing

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Ridgeboard Underpurlin
Ridgeboard
Ceiling
joist

Single
Continuous
span rafter
span rafter
Fascia
Fascia
Overhang span

(a) Single span (b) Continuous span

FIGURE 2.2 RAFTERS

2.2.2 Design for safety

2.2.2.1 General consideration
Design for safety includes consideration of the strength limit states for bending and shear.
In addition, for birdsmouth notches associated with overhangs, the interaction of bending
and shear is also considered.
2.2.2.2 Loads
The loads used for the determination of the design action effects are determined as follows:
(a) Dead loads (G) Dead loads, corresponding to various typical roof constructions, are
determined as in Table 2.2.1.

TABLE 2.2.1
DEAD LOAD
Roof type Dead load, G (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
NOTE: S = spacing of rafters, in metres.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 16

(b) Live loads The distributed live loads, Q1 , Q2 and Q3 (in kN/m), and concentrated
live loads Q4 and Q5 (in kN), are determined as follows:

(i) Q1 = g 43  1.8 + 0.12 S  or 0.25S, whichever is greater . . . 2.2.2(1)

 L 

(ii) Q2 = g 43  0.9 + 0.12 S  or 0.25S, whichever is greater . . . 2.2.2(2)

 L 
 
(iii) Q3 = g 45  1.8 + 0.12 S  or 0.25S, whichever is greater . . . 2.2.2(3)
L 
 o 
(iv) Q4 = g 42 × 1.1 . . . 2.2.2(4)
(v) Q5 = g 45 × 1.1 . . . 2.2.2(5)
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where,
L = span of rafters, in metres
S = spacing of rafters, in metres
Lo = horizontal span of rafter overhang, in metres
g 45 = load distribution factor for parallel rafter overhangs, calculated as
detailed in Appendix C for the case where the depth of the
birdsmouth notch is one third of the rafter depth and a fascia of
minimum rigidity 86 × 10 Nmm is attached to the end of each
9 2

rafter
g 42, g 43 = are the load distribution factors for concentrated load and partial area
load, respectively, 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: E cIc = 2.7 × 10 Nmm , and spacing = 1200 mm.
9 2

E cIc = 380 × 10 Nmm , and spacing = 330 mm.

6 2
(2) Tile roofs:
(c) Wind loads The wind load, Wu (in kN/m), applicable for the strength limit state is
calculated as follows:
Wu = qu Cpt S . . . 2.2.2(6)
where
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the ultimate limit state;
values of qu are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients given in Table 2.2.2
S = spacing of rafters, in metres

TABLE 2.2.2
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR RAFTERS — STRENGTH
C pt
Wind classification
Main spans Overhang
N1 to N4 +0.56 or −1.1 +0.56 or −1.6
C1 to C3 +0.72 or −1.6 +0.72 or −1.6
NOTE: The positive net pressure coefficients include the pressure combination factor K c = 0.8, which
allows for the combined effect of positive wind pressure on the roof and negative internal pressure.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 17 AS 1684.1—1999

2.2.2.3 Structural models and load categories for strength design

The structural models used to calculate the member design action effects are given in
Table 2.2.3. Load combinations shown in Table 2.2.3 are divided into load categories that
are used for the determination of member design capacity as specified in Clause 2.2.2.4.

TABLE 2.2.3
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — STRENGTH

Load Structural model

category Single span Continuous span Overhang

1.25G 1.25G 1.25G

1
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1.25G + 1.5Q3
1.25G + 1.5Q1 1.25G + 1.5Q2 1.25G

2 1.5Q4 1.25G 1.5Q4 1.25G 1.25G 1.5Q5

L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2

100

1.25G + Wu ↓ 1.25G + Wu ↓ 1.25G + Wu ↓

3 0.8G + Wu ↑
0.8G + Wu ↑ 0.8G + Wu ↑ 0.8G + Wu ↑

2.2.2.4 Member design capacity

The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied to determine member design capacities in
bending and shear. In addition, for birdsmouth notches associated with rafter overhangs, the
procedures given in Appendix C are applied, assuming the notch depth is one third of the
rafter depth. The following assumptions and modification factors are used:
(a) Load duration factor The member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k1). Values of k 1 appropriate for each load category, as defined in
Table 2.2.3, are given in Table 2.2.4.

TABLE 2.2.4
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH
Load category Load duration factor (k 1)
1 0.57
2 0.94
3 1.15

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 AS 1684.1—1999 18

(b) Moisture content of timber:

(i) Unseasoned timber — for load category 3 given in Table 2.2.3, values of k 4
appropriate for thickness as specified in AS 1720.1 are used. For load
categories 1 and 2, k4 = 1.0.
(ii) Seasoned timber — k4 = 1.0 for all load categories.
(c) Strength sharing For scantling timber, the strength sharing factor (k 9 ) has been
determined as follows:
(i) For the determination of the maximum main spans, k 9 has been determined in
accordance with AS 1720.1, assuming n mem = 5 and n com = 1 (for single
members).
(ii) For the determination of maximum overhangs and for negative moment only, in
accordance with Appendix C —
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k9 = 1.24 – 0.24 (S/L o), but not less than 1.0 . . . 2.2.2(7)
where
S = spacing of rafters
L o = 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.
2.2.3 Design for serviceability
2.2.3.1 Loads
The loads used for the purpose of assessing the serviceability limit states are given as
follows:
(a) Dead loads and live loads Dead loads and live loads are determined as described in
Clause 2.2.2.2.
(b) Wind loads The uniformly distributed wind load, Ws (in kN/m), applicable for the
serviceability limit state is calculated as follows:
Ws = q s Cpt S . . . 2.2.3
where
qs = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the serviceability limit
state; values of qs are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients given in Table 2.2.5
S = spacing of rafters, in metres

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 19 AS 1684.1—1999

TABLE 2.2.5
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR RAFTERS — SERVICEABILITY
C pt
Wind classification
Main spans Overhangs
N1 to N4 and C1 to C3 − 1.1 − 1.6

2.2.3.2 Structural models and load categories for serviceability design

The structural models for which deflections are calculated are given in Table 2.2.6. Load
cases included in Table 2.2.6 are divided into load categories for the purpose of allowing
for the effect of duration of load on stiffness, as specified in Clause 2.2.3.3.
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TABLE 2.2.6
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — SERVICEABILITY

Load Structural model

category Single span Continuous span Overhang (cantilevered)

G G G
1

Q1 Q2

2 Q4 Q4 Q5

L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2

100

Ws↑
Ws ↑ Ws ↑ Ws ↑
3

2.2.3.3 Calculation of deflection

The requirements of AS 1720.1 for the calculation of deflection are applied using the
duration of load factor for creep deformation as given in Table 2.2.7. In addition, the
deflection at the ends of overhangs for birdsmouth-notched rafters is determined using the
modified rafter rigidity given in Appendix C.
2.2.3.4 Serviceability limits
The limits on deflection, defining the serviceability limit state, are given in Table 2.2.8.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 20

TABLE 2.2.7
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR DEFORMATION

Load duration factor (j 2)

Moisture content
Load category 1 Load category 2 or 3

Seasoned 2.0 1.0

Unseasoned 3.0 1.0

TABLE 2.2.8
LIMITS ON DEFLECTION
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Deflection limits
Load category
Midspan End of overhang

1 Span/300 10 mm
2 Span/250 10 mm
3 Span/150 10 mm

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 21 AS 1684.1—1999

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, 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).

Ridge beam Supports Supports

Intermediate
(post, wall, etc.) (post, wall, etc.)
beam
Rafter
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Ridge beam

Supporting
wall or Supporting
Ridge beam Intermediate
intermediate wall
span beam span
beam

(a) Ridge beam (b) Intermediate beam

FIGURE 2.3 ROOF BEAMS—RIDGE OR INTERMEDIATE BEAM

2.3.2 Design for safety

2.3.2.1 General consideration
Roof beam design for safety includes consideration of the strength limit state for bending,
shear and bearing.
2.3.2.2 Loads
The loads used for the determination of the design action effects are determined as follows:
(a) Dead loads The uniformly distributed dead load, G (in kN/m), corresponding to
various typical roof constructions with additional allowance for the weight of the
rafters, are determined as follows:
2
G = 0.01(RM) (RLW) + 0.02 (RLW) + self weight . . . 2.3.2(1)
where
2
RM = standardized roof mass, i.e. 10, 20, 40, 60 or 90 kg/m
RLW = roof load width for the roof beam, in metres

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 AS 1684.1—1999 22

(b) Live loads The distributed live loads, Q1 and Q2 (in kN/m), and concentrated live
load, Q3 (in kN), are determined as follows:

 1.8 
(i) Q1 =  + 0.12(RLW ) or 0.25(RLW), whichever is greater . . . 2.3.2(2)
 L 
 0.9 
(ii) Q2 =  + 0.12(RLW ) or 0.25(RLW), whichever is greater . . . 2.3.2(3)
 L 
(iii) Q3 = 1.1 . . . 2.3.2(4)

where
L = span of roof beam, in metres
RLW = roof load width for the roof beam, in metres
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(c) Wind loads The uniformly distributed wind load, Wu (in kN/m), applicable for the
strength limit state is calculated as follows:
Wu = qu Cpt (RLW) . . . 2.3.2(5)
where
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the ultimate limit state;
values of qu are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients given in Table 2.3.1
RLW = roof load width for roof beam, in metres

TABLE 2.3.1
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR ROOF BEAMS — STRENGTH

C pt
Wind classification
Main spans Overhang

N1 to N4 +0.56 or −1.1 +0.56 or −1.6

C1 to C3 +0.72 or −1.6 +0.72 or −1.6

NOTE: The positive net pressure coefficients include the pressure combination factor
K c = 0.8, which allows for the combined effect of positive wind pressure on the roof and
negative internal pressure.

2.3.2.3 Structural models and load categories for strength design

The structural models used to calculate the member design action effects are given in
Table 2.3.2. Load combinations shown in Table 2.3.2 are divided into load categories that
are used for the determination of member design capacity as specified in Clause 2.3.2.4.
2.3.2.4 Member design capacity
The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied to determine member design capacities in
bending, shear and bearing. The following assumptions and modification factors are used:
(a) Load duration factor The member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k1). Values of k 1 appropriate for each load category, as defined in
Table 2.3.2, are given in Table 2.3.3.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 23 AS 1684.1—1999

(b) Moisture content of timber:

(i) Unseasoned timber — for load categories 2 and 3 given in Table 2.3.2, values
of k4 appropriate for thickness as given in AS 1720.1 are used. For load
category 1, k4 = 1.0.
(ii) Seasoned timber — k4 = 1.0 for all load categories.

TABLE 2.3.2
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — STRENGTH
Load Structural model
category Single span Continuous span Overhang
1.25G 1.25G 1.25G
1
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1.25G + 1.5Q1 1.25G + 1.5Q2

2 1.5Q3 1.25G 1.5Q3 1.25G 1.25G 1.5Q3

L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2 100

1.25G + Wu ↓ 1.25G + Wu ↓ 1.25G + Wu ↓

3
0.8G + Wu ↑ 0.8G + Wu ↑
0.8G + Wu ↑ 0.8G + Wu ↑

TABLE 2.3.3
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH
Load category Load duration factor (k 1 )
1 0.57
2 0.94
3 1.15

(c) Strength sharing Where multiple sections of scantling timber are nail-laminated, the
strength sharing factor (k9 ) is applied for the combined member, assuming n mem = 1
and ncom = number of combined sections.
(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.
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 AS 1684.1—1999 24

2.3.3 Design for serviceability

2.3.3.1 Loads
The loads used for the serviceability limit state are given as follows:
(a) Dead loads and live loads Dead loads and live loads are determined as described in
Clause 2.3.2.2.
(b) Wind loads The uniformly distributed wind load, Ws (in kN/m), applicable for the
serviceability limit state, is calculated as follows:
Ws = q s Cpt (RLW) . . . 2.3.3
where
qs = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the serviceability limit
state; values of qs are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind
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classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients given in Table 2.3.4
RLW = roof load width for roof beam, in metres

TABLE 2.3.4
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR RAFTERS — SERVICEABILITY

C pt
Wind classification
Main spans Overhangs
N1 to N4 and C1 to C3 − 1.1 − 1.6

2.3.3.2 Structural models and load categories for serviceability design

The structural models for which deflections are calculated are given in Table 2.3.5. Load
cases included in Table 2.3.5 are divided into load categories for the purpose of allowing
for the effect of duration of load on stiffness, as specified in Clause 2.3.3.3.

TABLE 2.3.5
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — SERVICEABILITY

Load Structural model

category Single span Continuous span Overhang (cantilevered)
G G G
1

Q1 Q2

2
Q3 Q3 Q3

L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2 100

Ws↑ Ws ↑ Ws↑
Ws ↑
3

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 25 AS 1684.1—1999

2.3.3.3 Calculation of deflection

The requirements of AS 1720.1 for the calculation of deflection are applied using the
duration of load factor for creep deformation as given in Table 2.3.6.

TABLE 2.3.6
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR DEFORMATION

Load duration factor ( j 2)

Moisture content
Load category 1 Load category 2 or 3

Seasoned 2.0 1.0

Unseasoned 3.0 1.0
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2.3.3.4 Serviceability limits

The limits on deflection used to define the serviceability limit states are given in
Table 2.3.7.

TABLE 2.3.7
LIMITS ON DEFLECTION

Deflection limits
Load category
Midspan End of overhang

1 Span/300 10 mm
2 Span/250 10 mm
3 Span/150 10 mm

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 AS 1684.1—1999 26

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 and primarily support roof loads normal to the plane of
the roof over the middle part of the rafter length.
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 which may reduce support to rafters and/or induce buckling,
particularly for more steeply pitched roofs.
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Underpurlin
span
Ridgeboard

Rafter

Rafter
spacing
Underpurlin
Roof strut

FIGURE 2.4 UNDERPURLINS

2.4.2 Design for safety

2.4.2.1 General consideration
Design for safety includes consideration of the strength limit states in bending and shear.
2.4.2.2 Loads
The loads used for determination of the design actions effects are determined as follows:
(a) Dead loads Dead loads include the self weight of the underpurlin (G1 ) and
concentrated loads (G2) imposed by the rafters. G2 (in kN) is determined as follows:
G2 = 1.25 (0.01RM) SR (RLW) . . . 2.4.2(1)
where
2
RM = standardized roof mass, i.e. 10, 20 or 60 kg/m
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(1) provides an allowance for the weight of supported
rafters and the effect of their continuity.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 27 AS 1684.1—1999

(b) Live loads Live loads imposed via rafters are considered as concentrated loads, Q1
(in kN), and are determined as follows:

+ 0.12 S R (RLW ) or 0.25 SR (RLW), whichever is greater

1.8
Q1 = . . . 2.4.2(2)
N
where
N = number of rafters supported—over one span for the single span case,
or over two spans for the continuous span case
SR = spacing or rafters, i.e. 0.6 m or 1.2 m
RLW = roof load width for underpurlins, in metres
(c) Wind loads Wind loads are considered as concentrated loads (Wu ), imposed via the
rafters. Concentrated loads, Wu (in kN), are calculated as follows:
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Wu = qu Cpt SR (RLW) . . . 2.4.2(3)

where
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the ultimate limit state;
values of qu are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients given in Table 2.4.1
SR = spacing of rafters, i.e. 0.6 m or 1.2 m
RLW = roof load width for underpurlin, in metres

TABLE 2.4.1
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR UNDERPURLINS

Wind classification C pt

N1 to N4
or +0.7 or −1.1
C1 to C3

2.4.2.3 Structural models and load categories used for strength design
The structural models used to determine the member design action effects are given in
Table 2.4.2. Load combinations shown in Table 2.4.2 are divided into load categories that
are used for the determination of member design capacity as specified in Clause 2.4.2.4.
2.4.2.4 Member design capacity
The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied to determine member design capacities in
bending and shear. The following assumptions and modification factors are used:
(a) Load duration factor The member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k1). Values of k 1 appropriate for each load category defined in
Table 2.4.2 are given in Table 2.4.3.
(b) Moisture content of timber:
(i) Unseasoned timber—for load categories 2 and 3, values of k 4 appropriate for
member thickness as given in AS 1720.1 are used. For load category 1, k 4 = 1.0.
(ii) Seasoned timber — k4 = 1.0 for all load categories.
(c) Strength sharing Where multiple sections of scantling timber are nail-laminated, the
strength sharing factor (k9 ) is applied for the combined member, assuming n mem = 1
and ncom = number of combined sections.
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 AS 1684.1—1999 28

(d) Member restraint For the determination of bending capacity, the following
assumptions related to lateral restraint are used:
(i) At supports — underpurlins are considered torsionally restrained at their
supports.
(ii) Between 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.
NOTE: Where nail-laminated members are used, the breadth of member used to derive the
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slenderness coefficient (S 1 ) is taken as the breadth of an individual lamination and not the
overall breadth.

TABLE 2.4.2
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — STRENGTH

Design action Structural models

effect Single span Continuous span

w w
P P P P P P P P
SR SR SR SR SR SR

In bending

L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2 L

w w
P P P P P P P P P P
SR SR SR SR SR SR SR SR

In shear

1.5d 1.5d

Load
Design loads
category
1 w = 1.25G 1 and P = 1.25G 2
2 w = 1.25G 1 and P = (1.25G2 + 1.5Q1 )
w = 1.25G 1 and P = (1.25G2 + Wu ↓)
3
w = 0.80G 1 and P = (0.8G2 + Wu ↑)

NOTES:
1 S R is rafter spacing, either 0.6 m or 1.2 m.
2 The number of concentrated loads considered will vary according to span, rafter spacing and locations of
concentrated loads.
3 Loads within 1.5d of supports are ignored in the determination of the design action effect in shear.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 29 AS 1684.1—1999

TABLE 2.4.3
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH
Load category Load duration factor (k 1 )
1 0.57
2 0.94
3 1.15

2.4.3 Design for serviceability

2.4.3.1 Loads
The loads used for the serviceability limit states are given as follows:
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(a) Dead loads Dead loads are determined as described in Clause 2.4.2.2.
(b) Live Loads Concentrated live loads, Q1 (in kN), are determined as follows:
1.8 
Q1 = 0.7  + 0.12 S R (RLW ) or 0.25 SR (RLW), whichever is greater
N 
. . . 2.4.3
where
N = number of rafters supported over one span for both the single and
continuous span cases
SR = spacing of rafters, i.e. 0.6 m or 1.2 m
RLW = roof load width for underpurlin, in metres
2.4.3.2 Structural models and load categories for serviceability design
The structural models for which deflections are calculated are given in Table 2.4.4. Load
cases given in Table 2.4.4 are divided into load categories for the purpose of allowing for
duration of load on stiffness as specified in Clause 2.4.3.3.

TABLE 2.4.4
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — SERVICEABILITY

Load Structural models

category Single span Continuous span

G1 G1
G2 G2 G2 G2 G2 G2 G2 G2
SR SR SR SR SR SR

L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2 L

Q1 Q1 Q1 Q1 Q1 Q1
SR SR SR SR
2

L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2 L

NOTE: S R = rafter spacing

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 AS 1684.1—1999 30

2.4.3.3 Calculation of deflection

The requirements of AS 1720.1 for the calculation of deflection are applied using the
duration of load factor for creep deformation as given in Table 2.4.5.

TABLE 2.4.5
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR DEFORMATION

Load duration factor ( j 2)

Moisture content
Load category 1 Load category 2

Seasoned 2.0 1.0

Unseasoned 3.0 1.0
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2.4.3.4 Serviceability limits

The limits on deflection used to define the serviceability limit states are given in
Table 2.4.6.

TABLE 2.4.6
LIMITS ON DEFLECTION

Load category Deflection limits

1 Span/300
2 Span/250

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 31 AS 1684.1—1999

2.5 STRUTTING BEAMS

2.5.1 Description
Strutting beams are near horizontal, single span beams installed within the roof space, clear
of ceilings, which provide support to underpurlins via struts.
Whilst 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).

Underpurlin
Ridgeboard
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Roof
strut

Strutting
Strutting beam
beam span

FIGURE 2.5 STRUTTING BEAMS

2.5.2 Design for safety

2.5.2.1 General consideration
Design for safety includes consideration of the strength limit states for bending and shear.
2.5.2.2 Loads
Roof loads applied to strutting beams are calculated on the basis of roof area supported.
Design loads are calculated as follows:
(a) Dead loads Dead loads for strutting beams include the self weight of the strutting
beam, G1 (in kN/m), and the roof dead load as a concentrated load, G2 (in kN),
calculated as follows:
G2 = 0.01 (RM + 10) A . . . 2.5.2(1)
where
2
RM = standardized roof mass allowance, i.e. 20 kg/m for sheet roofs and
2
60 kg/m for tile roofs
A = area of roof supported by the strutting beam, in square metres
(b) Live loads Roof live load is considered applied as a concentrated load, Q1 (in kN),
calculated as follows:
Q1 = (1.8 + 0.12A) or 0.25A, whichever is greater . . . 2.5.2(2)
where
A = area of roof supported by strutting beam in square metres

www.standards.com.au © Standards Australia

 AS 1684.1—1999 32

(c) Wind loads Wind load applicable for the strength limit state is considered applied as
a concentrated load Wu (in kN), calculated as follows:
Wu = qu Cpt A . . 2.5.2(3)
where
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the ultimate limit state;
values of qu are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients given in Table 2.5.1
A = area of roof supported by the strutting beam, in square metres

TABLE 2.5.1
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR STRUTTING BEAMS
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Wind classification C pt

N1 to N4
+0.7 or −1.1
C1 to C3

2.5.2.3 Structural models and load categories for strength design

The structural models used to calculate the member design action effect are given in
Table 2.5.2. Load combinations shown in Table 2.5.2 are divided into load categories that
are used for the determination of member design capacity as specified in Clause 2.5.2.4.
2.5.2.4 Member design capacity
The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied to determine member design capacities in
bending and shear. The following assumptions and modification factors are used:
(a) Load duration factor The member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k1). Values of k 1 appropriate for each load category, as defined in
Table 2.5.2, are given in Table 2.5.3.
(b) Moisture content of timber:
(i) Unseasoned timber — for load categories 2 and 3 given in Table 2.5.2, values of
k4 appropriate for thickness as given in AS 1720.1 are used. For load
category 1, k4 = 1.0.
(ii) Seasoned timber — k4 = 1.0 for all load categories.
(c) Strength sharing Where multiple sections of scantling timber are nail-laminated, the
strength sharing factor (k9 ) is applied for the combined member, assuming n mem = 1.0
and ncom = number of combined sections.
(d) Member restraint For the determination of bending capacity the following
assumptions relating to lateral restraint are used:
(i) At supports — strutting beams are assumed torsionally restrained at their
supports.
(ii) Between supports — strutting beams having a depth to breadth ratio greater than
three are assumed torsionally restrained at midspan (the assumed load point).
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.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 33 AS 1684.1—1999

TABLE 2.5.2
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — STRENGTH
Design action effect Structural models
P w

In bending
L/2 L/2

P w

In shear

L/3 2L/3
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Load category Design loads

1 w = 1.25G 1 and P = 1.25G 2
2 w = 1.25G 1 and P = 1.25G 2 + 1.5Q 1
w = 1.25G 1 and P = 1.25G 2 + W u ↓
3
w = 0.8 G 1 and P = 0.8G 2 + W u ↑

TABLE 2.5.3
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH
Load category Load duration factor (k 1 )
1 0.57
2 0.94
3 1.15

2.5.3 Design for serviceability

2.5.3.1 Loads
The dead loads and live loads used for the serviceability limit states are determined as
specified in Clause 2.5.2.2.
2.5.3.2 Structural models and load categories for serviceability design
The structural models for which deflections are calculated are given in Table 2.5.4. Load
cases given in Table 2.5.4 are divided into load categories for the purpose of allowing for
duration of load on stiffness as specified in Clause 2.5.3.3.

TABLE 2.5.4
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — SERVICEABILITY
Load category Structural models
G2 G1

L/2 L/2

Q1

2
L/2 L/2

www.standards.com.au © Standards Australia

 AS 1684.1—1999 34

2.5.3.3 Calculation of deflection

The requirements of AS 1720.1 for the calculation of deflection are applied using the
duration of load factor for creep deformation as given in Table 2.5.5.

TABLE 2.5.5
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR DEFORMATION

Load duration factor ( j 2)

Moisture content
Load category 1 Load category 2

Seasoned 2.0 1.0

Unseasoned 3.0 1.0
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2.5.3.4 Serviceability limits

The limits on deflection used to define the serviceability limit states are given in
Table 2.5.6.

TABLE 2.5.6
LIMITS ON DEFLECTION

Load category Deflection limits

1 Span/300 or 20 mm max.
2 Span/250 or 20 mm max.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 35 AS 1684.1—1999

2.6 COUNTER STRUTTING BEAMS

2.6.1 Description
Counter strutting beams support roof loads from 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).

Ridgeboard Underpurlin
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Rafter
Roof
strut

Counter
st r C ou s trutting
ut t n t beam
i ng er
be Hanging
am
beam

FIGURE 2.6 COUNTER STRUTTING BEAM

2.6.2 Design for safety

2.6.2.1 General consideration
Design for safety includes consideration of the strength limit states in bending and shear.
2.6.2.2 Loads
The loads used for the determination of the design action effects are determined as follows:
(a) Dead loads Dead loads include the self weight of the counter strutting beam (G1 )
and the concentrated load due to the roof and ceiling loads, G2 (in kN), which is
calculated as follows:
2
G2 = 0.01(RM + 10) A + (0.06L + 0.005L ) (CLW) . . . 2.6.2(1)
where
2
RM = standardized roof mass allowance, i.e. 20 kg/m for sheet roofs and
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

www.standards.com.au © Standards Australia

 AS 1684.1—1999 36

(b) Live loads Roof live load is considered as a concentrated load, Q1 (in kN), applied
via a roof strut and calculated as follows:
Q1 = (1.8 + 0.12A) or 0.25A, whichever is greater . . . 2.6.2(2)
where
A = roof area supported by the counter strutting beam, in square metres
(c) Wind loads Wind load is considered applied as a concentrated load, Wu (in kN),
applied via a single roof strut and calculated as follows:
Wu = qu Cpt A . . 2.6.2(3)
where
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the ultimate limit state;
values of qu are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind
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classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients given in Table 2.6.1
A = roof area supported by the counter strutting beam, in square metres

TABLE 2.6.1
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS
FOR COUNTER STRUTTING BEAM
Wind classification C pt

N1 to N4 +0.56 or −1.1
C1 to C3 +0.72 or −1.6

NOTE: The positive net pressure coefficients include the pressure

combination factor Kc = 0.8, which allows for the combined effect
of positive wind pressure on the roof and negative internal pressure.

2.6.2.3 Structural models and load categories for strength design

The structural models used to calculate the member design action effects are given in
Table 2.6.2. Load combinations shown in Table 2.6.2 are divided into load categories that
are used for the determination of member design capacity as specified in Clause 2.6.2.4.
2.6.2.4 Member design capacity
The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied to determine member design capacities in
bending and shear. The following assumptions and modification factors are used:
(a) Load duration factor The member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k1). Values of k 1 appropriate for each load category, as defined in
Table 2.6.1, are given in Table 2.6.3.
(b) Moisture content of timber:
(i) Unseasoned timber — for load categories 2 and 3 given in Table 2.6.2, values of
k4 appropriate for thickness as specified in AS 1720.1 are used. For load
category 1, k4 = 1.0.
(ii) Seasoned timber — k4 = 1.0 for all load categories.
(c) Strength sharing Where multiple sections of scantling timber are nail-laminated, the
strength sharing factor (k9 ) is applied for the combined member, assuming n mem = 1.0
and ncom = number of combined sections.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 37 AS 1684.1—1999

(d) Member restraint For the determination of bending capacity the following
assumptions relating to lateral restraint are used:
(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.
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.

TABLE 2.6.2
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — STRENGTH
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Design action effect Structural models

w
P

In bending

L/2 L/2

w
P

In shear

L/3 2L/3

Load category Design loads

1 w = 1.25G 1 and P = 1.25G 2
2 w = 1.25G 1 and P = 1.25G 2 + 1.5Q 1
w = 1.25G 1 and P = 1.25G 2 + W u ↓
3
w = 0.80G 1 and P = 0.8G 2 + W u ↑

TABLE 2.6.3
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH
Load category Load duration factor k 1
1 0.57
2 0.94
3 1.15

2.6.3 Design for serviceability

2.6.3.1 Loads
The dead loads and live loads used for the serviceability limit states are determined as
specified in Clause 2.6.2.2.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 38

2.6.3.2 Structural models and load categories for serviceability design

The structural models for which deflections are calculated are given in Table 2.6.4. Load
cases given in Table 2.6.4 are divided into load categories for the purpose of allowing for
duration of load on stiffness as specified in Clause 2.6.3.3.

TABLE 2.6.4
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — SERVICEABILITY
Load category Structural models

G1
G2

1
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L/2 L/2

Q1

L/2 L/2

2.6.3.3 Calculation of deflection

The requirements of AS 1720.1 for the calculation of deflection are applied using the
duration of load factor for creep deformation as given in Table 2.6.5.

TABLE 2.6.5
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR DEFORMATION

Load duration factor ( j 2)

Moisture content
Load category 1 Load category 2

Seasoned 2.0 1.0

Unseasoned 3.0 1.0

2.6.3.4 Serviceability limits

The limits on deflection used to define the serviceability limit states are given in
Table 2.6.6.

TABLE 2.6.6
LIMITS ON DEFLECTION

Load category Deflection limits

1 Span/300 or 12 mm max.
2 Span/300 or 12 mm max.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 39 AS 1684.1—1999

2.7 COMBINED HANGING STRUTTING BEAMS

2.7.1 Description
Combined hanging strutting beams support roof loads applied via 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 strut and ceiling
loads are assumed uniformly distributed (see Figure 2.7).

Underpurlin
Rafter

Roof
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strut

n g
Ceiling tt i
joist s tru n
- pa
ng
n gi am s
Ha be
Hanging- strutting beam

FIGURE 2.7 COMBINED HANGING-STRUTTING BEAM

2.7.2 Design for safety

2.7.2.1 General consideration
Design for safety includes consideration of the strength limit states for bending and shear.
2.7.2.2 Loads
The loads used for the determination of the design action effects are determined as follows:
(a) Dead loads Dead loads include the distributed load due to self weight and the weight
of the ceiling (G1 ) and the concentrated load due to the weight of the roof (G2 ).
G1 (in kN/m) and G2 (in kN) are calculated as follows:
2
(i) G1 = 0.12(CLW) + 0.02(CLW) + self weight . . . 2.7.2(1)
(ii) G2 = 0.01(RM + 10) A . . . 2.7.2(2)
where
CLW = ceiling load width for combined hanging strutting beam, in metres
2
RM = standardized roof mass allowance, i.e. 20 kg/m for sheet roofs and
2
60 kg/m for tile roofs

www.standards.com.au © Standards Australia

 AS 1684.1—1999 40

(b) Live loads Roof live load is considered as a concentrated load, Q1 (in kN), applied
via a single roof strut and calculated as follows:
Q1 = (1.8 + 0.12A) or 0.25A, whichever is greater . . . 2.7.2(3)
where
A = roof area supported by the combined hanging strutting beam, in square
metres
(c) Wind loads Wind load is considered as a concentrated load, Wu (in kN) applied via a
single roof strut and calculated as follows:
Wu = qu Cpt A . . . 2.7.2(4)
where
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the ultimate limit state;
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values of qu are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind

classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients given in Table 2.7.1
A = roof area supported by the combined hanging strutting beam in square
metres

TABLE 2.7.1
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR
COMBINED HANGING STRUTTING BEAM
Wind classification C pt

N1 to N4 +0.56 or −1.1
C1 to C3 +0.72 or −1.6

NOTE: The positive net pressure coefficients include the pressure

combination factor Kc = 0.8, which allows for the combined effect
of positive wind pressure on the roof and negative internal pressure.

2.7.2.3 Structural models and load categories for strength design

The structural models used to calculate the member design action effects are given in
Table 2.7.2. Load combinations shown in Table 2.7.2 are divided into load categories that
are used for the determination of member design capacity as specified in Clause 2.7.2.4.
2.7.2.4 Member design capacity
The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied to determine member design capacities in
bending and shear. The following assumptions and modification are used:
(a) Load duration factor The member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k1). Values of k 1 appropriate for each load category, as defined in
Table 2.7.2 are given in Table 2.7.3.
(b) Moisture content of timber:
(i) Unseasoned timber — for load categories 2 and 3 given in Table 2.7.2, values of
k4 appropriate for thickness as specified in AS 1720.1 are used. For load
category 1, k4 = 1.0.
(ii) Seasoned timber — k4 = 1.0 for all load categories.
(c) Strength sharing Where multiple sections of scantling timber are nail-laminated, the
strength sharing factor (k9 ) is applied for the combined member, assuming n mem = 1.0
and ncom = number of combined sections.
© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au
 41 AS 1684.1—1999

(d) Member restraint For the determination of bending capacity, the following
assumptions relating to lateral restraint are used:
(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.
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.

TABLE 2.7.2
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — STRENGTH
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Design action effect Structural models

w
P

In bending

L/2 L/2

w
P

In shear

L/3 2L/3

Load category Design loads

1 w = 1.25G 1 and P = 1.25G 2
2 w = 1.25G 1 and P = 1.25G 2 + 1.5Q 1
w = 1.25G 1 and P = 1.25G 2 + W u ↓
3
w = 0.80G 1 and P = 0.8G 2 + W u ↑

TABLE 2.7.3
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH
Load category Load duration factor (k 1 )
1 0.57
2 0.94
3 1.15

www.standards.com.au © Standards Australia

 AS 1684.1—1999 42

2.7.3 Design for serviceability

2.7.3.1 Loads
The dead loads and live loads used for the serviceability limit states are determined as
specified in Clause 2.7.2.2.
2.7.3.2 Structural models and load categories for serviceability design
The structural models for which deflections are calculated are given in Table 2.7.4. Load
cases given in Table 2.7.4 are divided into load categories for the purpose of allowing for
duration of load on stiffness as specified in Clause 2.7.3.3.

TABLE 2.7.4
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — SERVICEABILITY
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Load category Structural models

G1
G2

L/2 L/2

Q1

L/2 L/2

2.7.3.3 Calculation of deflection

The requirements of AS 1720.1 for the calculation of deflection are applied using the
duration of load factor for creep deformation as given in Table 2.7.5.

TABLE 2.7.5
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR DEFORMATION
Load duration factor ( j 2)
Moisture content
Load category 1 Load category 2
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0

2.7.3.4 Serviceability limits

The limits on deflection used to define the serviceability limit states are given in
Table 2.7.6.

TABLE 2.7.6
LIMITS ON DEFLECTION

Load category Deflection limits

1 Span/300 or 12 mm max.
2 Span/300 or 12 mm max.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 43 AS 1684.1—1999

2.8 CEILING BATTENS

2.8.1 Description
Ceiling battens are closely spaced continuously spanning members attached to the underside
of rafters, ceiling joists, floor joists or trusses that provide direct support for ceiling linings.
The design of ceiling battens does not include consideration of live load effects
(see Figure 2.8.1).
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Ceiling joist

Ceiling batten

FIGURE 2.8.1 CEILING BATTENS

2.8.2 Design for safety

2.8.2.1 General consideration
Design for safety includes consideration of the strength limit state for bending.
2.8.2.2 Loads
The loads used for the determination of the design action effects are determined as follows:
(a) Dead loads Dead load includes dead load due to self weight and due to the mass of
the supported ceiling lining, G (in kN/m), which is calculated as follows:
G = 0.12 S + self weight . . . 2.8.2(1)
where
S = the spacing of the ceiling battens, in metres
(b) Live loads Strength limit states for live load are not considered.
(c) Wind loads Wind load for the strength limit state is considered applied as a
uniformly distributed load, Wu (in kN/m), and calculated as follows:
Wu = qu Cpt S . . 2.8.2(2)
where
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the ultimate limit state;
values of qu are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients given in Table 2.8.1
S = spacing of ceiling battens, in metres

www.standards.com.au © Standards Australia

 AS 1684.1—1999 44

TABLE 2.8.1
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS
FOR CEILING BATTENS

Wind classification C pt

N1 to N4 +0.50 or −0.5
C1 to C3 +0.85 or −1.0

2.8.2.3 Structural models and load categories for strength design

The structural models used to calculate the member design action effects are given in
Table 2.8.2. Load combinations shown in Table 2.8.2 are divided into load categories that
are used for the determination of member design capacity as specified in Clause 2.8.2.4.
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TABLE 2.8.2
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — STRENGTH
Load category Structural models

1.25G

1.25G + W u↓

2
0.8G + W u↑

2.8.2.4 Member design capacity

The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied to determine member design capacities. The
following assumptions and modification factors are used:
(a) Load duration factor The member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k 1). Values of k 1 appropriate for each load category, as defined in
Table 2.8.2, are given in Table 2.8.3.

TABLE 2.8.3
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH

Load category Load duration factor (k 1 )

1 0.57
2 1.15

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 45 AS 1684.1—1999

(b) Moisture content of timber:

(i) Unseasoned timber — for load category 1, as defined in Table 2.8.2, k 4 = 1.0.
For load category 2, values of k 4 appropriate for thickness as specified in
AS 1720.1 are used.
(ii) Seasoned timber — k4 = 1.0 for all load categories.
(c) Strength sharing For ceiling battens, k 9 = 1.0.
(d) Member restraint For ceiling battens breadth is greater than or equal to depth and,
therefore, k12 = 1.0.

2.8.3 Design for serviceability

2.8.3.1 Loads
Only the serviceability limit state for dead load is considered in design. Dead load for the
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serviceability limit state is determined as given in Clause 2.8.2.2.

2.8.3.2 Structural model for serviceability design
The structural model for which deflection is calculated is shown in Figure 2.8.2.

FIGURE 2.8.2 STRUCTURAL MODEL FOR SERVICEABILITY DESIGN

2.8.3.3 Calculation of deflection

The requirements of AS 1720.1 for the calculation of deflection are applied using the
duration of load factor for creep deformation as given in Table 2.8.4.

TABLE 2.8.4
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR DEFORMATION

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.

www.standards.com.au © Standards Australia

 AS 1684.1—1999 46

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).
Dead and wind loads are assumed continuously applied along the bottom edge of the joists.
Live load due to construction or maintenance is considered applied as a concentrated load
to the top edge.
Two installation methods are considered. One in which a continuous over-batten is attached
to the top edge of each joist at midspan and acts to laterally distribute the concentrated live
load and provide intermediate lateral restraint. For the alternative method, no over-batten is
installed and design does not allow for any load distribution or intermediate lateral
restraint.
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Hanging
Ceiling beam
joist

Rafter

Over-
batten Ceiling
joist
spacing

Ceiling joist span

FIGURE 2.9 CEILING JOISTS

2.9.2 Design for safety

2.9.2.1 General consideration
Design for safety includes consideration of the strength limit states for bending and shear.
2.9.2.2 Loads
The loads used for the determination of the design action effects are determined as follows:
(a) Dead load Dead load, G (in kN/m) for ceiling joists supporting ceiling lining (and
battens, if appropriate), as follows:
G = 0.12S + self weight . . . 2.9.2(1)
where
S = spacing of ceiling joists, in metres

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 47 AS 1684.1—1999

(b) Live loads Live load for ceiling joists is considered as a concentrated load, Q
(in kN), and calculated as follows:
Q = g42 × 1.1 . . . 2.9.2(2)
Where g42 is a load distribution factor calculated as follows:
(i) For ceiling joists installed without over-batten, g 42 = 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), Ec I c is equal to 1.73 × 10 Nmm and the number
9 2

of crossing members is one.

(B) Shear — g42 = 1.0.
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(c) Wind loads The wind load, Wu (in kN/m), applicable for the strength limit state is
calculated as follows:
Wu = qu Cpt S . . . 2.9.2(3)
where
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the ultimate limit state;
values of qu are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients given in Table 2.9.2
S = spacing of ceiling joists, in metres

TABLE 2.9.2
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS
FOR CEILING JOISTS — STRENGTH

Wind classification C pt

N1 to N4 +0.50 or −0.5
C1 to C3 +0.85 or −1.0

2.9.2.3 Structural models and load categories for strength design

The structural models used to calculate the member design action effects are given in
Table 2.9.3. Load combinations shown in Table 2.9.3 are divided into load categories that
are used for the determination of member design capacity as specified in Clause 2.9.2.4.
2.9.2.4 Member design capacity
The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied to determine member design capacities in
bending and shear. The following assumptions and modification factors are used:
(a) Load duration factor The member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration k1. Values of k 1 appropriate for each load category, as defined in
Table 2.9.3, are given in Table 2.9.4.
(b) Moisture content of timber:
(i) Unseasoned timber — for load categories 2 and 3 given in Table 2.9.3, values of
k4 appropriate for thickness as given in AS 1720.1 are used. For load
category 1, k4 = 1.0.
(ii) Seasoned timber — k4 = 1.0 for all load categories.
(c) Strength sharing Strength sharing is ignored, k 9 = 1.0.
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 AS 1684.1—1999 48

(d) Member restraint For the determination of bending capacity the following
assumptions relating to lateral restraint are used:
(i) At supports — ceiling joists are assumed torsionally restrained at supports.
(ii) Between 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, the top edge is assumed loaded and
not restrained (i.e. Lay = span), except for ceiling joists installed with
over-battens, L ay is taken as one half the span.
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TABLE 2.9.3
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES  STRENGTH

Load Structural models

category Single span Continuous span

1.25G 1.25G

1.5Q 1.25G 1.5Q 1.25G

L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2

1.25G + W u ↓ 1.25G + W u ↓

3
0.8G + W u ↑ 0.8G + W u ↑

TABLE 2.9.4
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH

Load category Load duration factor (k 1 )

1 0.57
2 0.94
3 1.15

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 49 AS 1684.1—1999

2.9.3 Design for serviceability

2.9.3.1 Loads
Only the serviceability limit for dead load is considered. Dead loads for calculation of
deflection are given in Clause 2.9.2.2.
2.9.3.2 Structural model for serviceability design
The structural models for which deflection is calculated are shown in Table 2.9.5.

TABLE 2.9.5
STRUCTURAL MODEL — SERVICEABILITY

Single span Continuous span

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G G

2.9.3.3 Calculation of deflection

The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied using the duration of load factor for creep
deformation as given in Table 2.9.6.

TABLE 2.9.6
LOAD DURATION FACTORS
FOR DEFORMATION

Moisture content Load duration factor ( j 2)

Seasoned 2.0
Unseasoned 3.0

2.9.3.4 Serviceability limits

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

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 AS 1684.1—1999 50

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 edge.
Design assumes that hanging beams are single span beams, loaded and continuously
restrained by ceiling joists along their bottom edge (see Figure 2.10).

Ceiling
Hanging joist
beam
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an
sp
am
be
g
n g in
Ha

FIGURE 2.10 HANGING BEAM

2.10.2 Design for safety

2.10.2.1 General consideration
Design for safety includes consideration of the strength limit state for bending.
2.10.2.2 Loads
The loads used to calculate the design action effects are determined as follows:
(a) Dead load The uniformly distributed dead load, G (in kN/m), is calculated as
follows:
2
G = 0.12 (CLW) + 0.02 (CLW) + self weight . . . 2.10.2(1)
where
CLW = ceiling load width for the hanging beam, in metres
(b) Live load A concentrated live load, Q = 1.1 kN is considered.
(c) Wind load The uniformly distributed wind load applicable for the strength limit
state, Wu (in kN/m), is calculated as follows:
Wu = q u Cpt (CLW) . . . 2.10.2(2)
where
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the ultimate limit state;
values of qu are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients given in Table 2.10.1
CLW = ceiling load width for the hanging beam, in metres

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 51 AS 1684.1—1999

TABLE 2.10.1
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS
FOR HANGING BEAMS — STRENGTH

Wind classification C pt

N1 to N4 +0.50 or −0.5
C1 to C3 +0.85 or −1.0

2.10.2.3 Structural models and load categories for strength design

The structural models used to calculate the member design action effects are given in
Table 2.10.2. Load combinations shown in Table 2.10.2 are divided into load categories that
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are used for the determination of member design capacity as specified in Clause 2.10.2.4.

TABLE 2.10.2
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — STRENGTH
Load category Structural models

1.25G

1.25G
1.5Q

L/2 L/2

1.25G + Wu↓

3
0.8G + Wu↑

2.10.2.4 Member design capacity

The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied to determine member design capacities in
bending. The following assumptions and modification factors are used:
(a) Load duration factor The member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k1). Values of k 1 appropriate for each load category, as defined in
Table 2.10.2, are given in Table 2.10.3.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 52

TABLE 2.10.3
LOAD DURACTION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH

Load category Load duration factor (k 1 )

1 0.57
2 0.94
3 1.15

(b) Moisture content of timber:

(i) Unseasoned timber — for load categories 2 and 3 given in Table 2.10.2, values
of k4 appropriate for thickness as given in AS 1720.1 are used. For load
category 1, k4 = 1.0.
(ii) Seasoned timber — k4 = 1.0.
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(c) Strength sharing Where multiple sections of scantling timber are nail-laminated the
strength sharing factor (k9 ) is applied for the combined member, assuming n mem = 1.0
and ncom = number of combined sections.
(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.
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.
2.10.3 Design for serviceability
2.10.3.1 Loads
The dead and live loads used for the serviceability limit states are determined as specified
in Clause 2.10.2.2.
2.10.3.2 Structural models and load categories for serviceability design
The structural models for which deflections are calculated are given in Table 2.10.4. Load
cases given in Table 2.10.4 are divided into load categories for the purpose of allowing for
duration of load on stiffness as specified in Clause 2.10.3.3.

TABLE 2.10.4
STRUCTURAL MODEL — SERVICEABILITY
Load category Structural models

2
L/2 L/2

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 53 AS 1684.1—1999

2.10.3.3 Calculation of deflection

The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied using the duration of load factor for creep
deformation as given in Table 2.10.5.

TABLE 2.10.5
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR DEFORMATION
Load duration factor ( j2 )
Initial moisture content
Load category 1 Load category 2
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0
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2.10.3.4 Serviceability limits

The limits on deflection used to define the serviceability limit states are given in
Table 2.10.6.

TABLE 2.10.6
LIMITS ON DEFLECTION

Load category Deflection limits

1 Span/300
2 Span/270

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 AS 1684.1—1999 54

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).

Hanging
beam
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Co Counter
un
te beam
sp r be Ceiling
an am
joist

FIGURE 2.11 COUNTER BEAM

2.11.2 Design for safety

2.11.2.1 General consideration
Design for safety includes consideration of the strength limit states for bending.
2.11.2.2 Loads
The loads used for the determination of the design action effects are determined as follows:
(a) Dead loads Dead loads include the distributed load due to self weight G1 (in kN/m),
and a concentrated load imposed by the hanging beams, G2 (in kN), which is
calculated as follows:
G2 = 0.2 (CLW) (L/2) . . . 2.11.2(1)
where
CLW = ceiling load width for the counter beam, in metres
L = span of the counter beam, in metres
(b) Live load A concentrated live load, Q = 1.1 kN, is considered.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 55 AS 1684.1—1999

(c) Wind load Wind load is considered as a concentrated load, Wu (in kN), and is
calculated as follows:
Wu = qu Cpt (CLW) (L/2) . . . 2.11.2(2)
where
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the ultimate limit state;
values of qu are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients given in Table 2.11.1
CLW = ceiling load width for the counter beam, in metres
L = span of the counter beam in metres

TABLE 2.11.1
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NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS

FOR COUNTER BEAMS
Wind classification C pt
N1 to N4 +0.50 or −0.5
C1 to C3 +0.85 or −1.0

2.11.2.3 Structural models and load categories for strength design

The structural models used to calculate the member design action effects are given in
Table 2.11.2. Load combinations shown in Table 2.11.2 are divided into load categories that
are used for the determination of member design capacity as specified in Clause 2.11.2.4.

TABLE 2.11.2
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — STRENGTH
Load category Structural models

1.25G1 1.25G2

L/2 L/2

1.25G1 1.25G2 + 1.5Q

L/2 L/2

1.25G1 1.25G2 + Wu↓

L/2 L/2
3
0.8G1 0.8G2 + Wu↑

L/2 L/2

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 AS 1684.1—1999 56

2.11.2.4 Member design capacity

The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied to determine member design capacities. The
following assumptions and modification factors are used:
(a) Load duration factor The member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k1). Values of k 1 appropriate for each load category, as defined in
Table 2.11.2 are given in Table 2.11.3.

TABLE 2.11.3
LOAD DURACTION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH

Load category Load duration factor (k 1)

1 0.57
2 0.94
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3 1.15

(b) Moisture content of timber:

(i) Unseasoned timber — for load categories 2 and 3, given in Table 2.11.2, values
of k4 appropriate for thickness as given in AS 1720.1 are used. For load
category 1, k4 = 1.0.
(ii) Seasoned timber — k4 = 1.0 for all load categories.
(c) Strength sharing Where multiple sections of scantling timber are nail-laminated, the
strength sharing factor (k9 ) is applied for the combined member, assuming n mem = 1.0
and ncom = number of combined sections.
(d) Member restraint For the determination of bending capacity the following
assumptions relating to lateral restraint are used.
(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.
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.
2.11.3 Design for serviceability
2.11.3.1 Loads
The dead loads and live loads used for the serviceability limit states are determined as
specified in Clause 2.11.2.2.
2.11.3.2 Structural models and load categories for serviceability design
The structural models for which deflections are calculated are given in Table 2.11.4. Load
cases given in Table 2.11.4 are divided into load categories for the purpose of allowing for
duration of load on stiffness as specified in Clause 2.11.3.3.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 57 AS 1684.1—1999

TABLE 2.11.4
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — SERVICEABILITY
Load category Structural models
G2
G1

L/2 L/2

2
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L/2 L/2

2.11.3.3 Calculation of deflection

The requirements of AS 1720.1 for the calculation of deflection are applied using the
duration of load for creep deformation as given in Table 2.11.5.

TABLE 2.11.5
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR DEFORMATION
Load duration factor ( j2 )
Initial moisture content
Load category 1 Load category 2
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0

2.11.3.4 Serviceability limits

The limits on deflection used to define the serviceability limit states are given in
Table 2.11.6.

TABLE 2.11.6
LIMITS ON DEFLECTION

Load category Deflection limits

1 Span/300 or 15 mm max.
2 Span/270 or 15 mm max.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 58

2.12 VERANDAH BEAMS

2.12.1 Description
Verandah beams span between verandah posts and support roof loads imposed by rafters or
trusses.
Verandah beams for single and continuous span applications are considered. Design
considers roof load is applied to the top edge of verandah beams as a series of concentrated
loads at 600 mm or 1200 mm centres corresponding to rafter (or truss) spacings
(see Figure 2.12).
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Verandah
beam

Rafter or truss

Rafter
or truss
spacing

Verandah
beam span

FIGURE 2.12 VERANDAH BEAM

2.12.2 Design for safety

2.12.2.1 General consideration
Design for safety includes consideration of the strength limit states in bending and shear.
2.12.2.2 Loads
The loads used for determination of the design action effects are determined as follows:
(a) Dead loads Dead loads include the self weight of the verandah beam, G1 (in kN/m),
and concentrated loads (G2 ) imposed by the rafters. G2 (in kN) is determined as
follows:
2
G2 = 0.01 (RM) (RLW) SR + 0.02 (RLW) S R . . . 2.12.2(1)
where
RLW = roof load width for the verandah beam, in metres
2
RM = standardized roof mass, i.e. 10, 20, 40, 60 or 90 kg/m
SR = rafter spacing, i.e. 0.6 m or 1.2 m

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 59 AS 1684.1—1999

(b) Live loads Live loads imposed via rafters are considered as concentrated loads,
Q (in kN), and calculated as follows:

Q = 1.8 + 0.12 S R (RLW ) or 0.25 SR (RLW), whichever is greater

N
. . . 2.12.2(2)
where
N = number of rafters supported — over one span for the single span case,
or over two spans for the continuous span case
SR = rafter spacing, i.e. 0.6 m or 1.2 m
RLW = roof load width for the verandah beams, in metres
(c) Wind loads Wind loads are considered as concentrated loads Wu (in kN), imposed
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via the rafters and calculated as follows:

Wu = qu Cpt SR (RLW) . . . 2.12.2(3)
where
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the ultimate limit state;
values of qu are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients given in Table 2.12.1
SR = rafter spacing, i.e. 0.6 or 1.2 m
RLW = roof load width for the verandah beam, in metres
NOTE: Horizontal wind pressure on verandah beams is ignored.

TABLE 2.12.1
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR
VERANDAH BEAMS

Wind classification C pt

N1 to N4
or +0.4 or −1.2
C1 to C3

2.12.2.3 Structural models and load categories used for strength design
The structural models used to determine the member design action effects are given in
Table 2.12.2. Load combinations shown in Table 2.12.2 are divided into load categories that
are used for the determination of member design capacity as specified in Clause 2.12.2.4.
2.12.2.4 Member design capacity
The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied to determine member design capacities in
bending and shear. The following assumptions and modification factors are used:
(a) Load duration factor The member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k1). Values of k 1 appropriate for each load category defined in
Table 2.12.2 are given in Table 2.12.3.
(b) Moisture content of timber:
(i) Unseasoned timber — for load categories 2 and 3, values of k 4 appropriate for
member thickness as given in AS 1720.1 are used. For load category 1, k 4 = 1.0.
(ii) Seasoned timber — k4 = 1.0 for all load categories.
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 AS 1684.1—1999 60

(c) Strength sharing Where multiple sections of scantling timber are nail-laminated, the
strength sharing factor (k9 ) is applied for the combined member, assuming n mem = 1
and ncom = number of combined sections.
(d) Member restraint For the determination of bending capacity, the following
assumptions related to lateral restraint are used:
(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.
(B) Continuous span verandah beams are assumed restrained against buckling
at the points of contraflexure taken as one quarter of the span from an
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intermediate support.
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 and not the overall
breadth.

TABLE 2.12.2
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — STRENGTH

Design action Structural models

effect Single span Continuous span

w w
P P P P P P P P
SR SR SR SR SR SR

In bending

L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2 L

w w
P P P P P P P P P P
SR SR SR SR SR SR SR SR

In shear

1.5d 1.5d

Load
Design loads
category
1 w = 1.25G 1 and P = 1.25G 2
2 w = 1.25G 1 and P = (1.25G2 + 1.5Q)
w = 1.25G 1 and P = (1.25G2 + Wu ↓)
3
w = 0.8 G 1 and P = (0.8G2 + Wu ↑)

NOTES:
1 S R is rafter spacing, either 0.6 m or 1.2 m.
2 The number of concentrated loads considered will vary according to span, rafter spacing and locations of
concentrated loads.
3 Loads within 1.5d of supports are ignored in the determination of the design action effect in shear.
© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au
 61 AS 1684.1—1999

TABLE 2.12.3
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH
Load category Load duration factor (k 1)
1 0.57
2 0.94
3 1.15

2.12.3 Design for serviceability

2.12.3.1 Loads
The loads used for the serviceability limit states are given as follows:
(a) Dead loads Dead loads are determined as described in Clause 2.12.2.2.
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(b) Live loads Concentrated live loads, Q (in kN), are determined as follows:
1.8 
Q = 0.7  + 0.12 S R (RLW ) or 0.25 SR (RLW), whichever is greater
N 
. . . 2.12.3(1)
where
N = number of rafters supported over one span for both the single and
continuous span cases
SR = rafter spacing, i.e.0.6 m or 1.2 m
RLW = roof load width for the verandah beam, in metres
(c) Wind loads Wind load is considered applied by the rafters as a series of concentrated
loads, Ws (in kN), and calculated as follows:
Ws = q s Cpt SR (RLW) . . . 2.12.3(2)
where
qs = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the serviceability limit
state; values of qs are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients give in Table 2.12.4
SR = rafter spacing, i.e. 0.6 m or 1.2 m
RLW = roof load width for verandah beam, in metres

TABLE 2.12.4
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS
FOR VERANDAH BEAMS

Wind classification C pt

N1 to N4
+0.4, −1.2
C1 to C3

2.12.3.2 Structural models and load categories for serviceability design

The structural models for which deflections are calculated are given in Table 2.12.5. Load
cases given in Table 2.12.5 are divided into load categories for the purpose of allowing for
duration of load on stiffness as specified in Clause 2.12.3.4.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 62

TABLE 2.12.5
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — SERVICEABILITY

Load Structural models

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

Q Q Q Q Q Q
SR SR SR SR
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L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2 L

Ws Ws Ws Ws Ws Ws Ws Ws
SR SR SR SR SR SR

L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2 L

NOTE: S R = rafter spacing — 0.6 m or 1.2 m

2.12.3.3 Calculation of deflection

The requirements of AS 1720.1 for the calculation of deflection are applied using the
duration of load factor for creep deformation as given in Table 2.12.6.

TABLE 2.12.6
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR DEFORMATION

Load duration factor ( j2 )

Initial moisture content
Load category 1 Load categories 2 and 3

Seasoned 2.0 1.0

Unseasoned 3.0 1.0

2.12.3.4 Serviceability limits

The limits on deflection used to define the serviceability limit states are given in
Table 2.12.7.

TABLE 2.12.7
LIMITS ON DEFLECTION

Load category Deflection limits

1 Span/400 or 10 mm max.
2 Span/250 or 12 mm max.
3 Span/200

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 63 AS 1684.1—1999

SECTION 3 DES IG N O F W A LL MEM BERS

3.1 POSTS
3.1.1 Description
Posts are vertical 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
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members (see Figure 3.1).

Post

Post

FIGURE 3.1 POSTS SUPPORTING ROOF AND/OR FLOOR LOADS

3.1.2 Design for safety

3.1.2.1 General consideration
Design for safety includes consideration of the strength limit states in tension and
compression.
3.1.2.2 Loads
The loads used for the determination of the design action effects are determined as follows:
(a) Dead loads Dead load is determined as the sum of the dead loads from supported
roof and floor areas. Expressions used for the determination of concentrated dead
load (G) are given in Table 3.1.1.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 64

TABLE 3.1.1
DEAD LOADS
Source of load Dead load, G (kN)
Floor 0.4 AF
Roof:
Tile 0.9 AR
Sheet 0.4 AR

NOTE: A F = area of floor supported in square metres

AR = area of roof supported in square metres

(b) Live loads Concentrated live loads, Q1 , Q2 and Q3 (all in kN), arising from support
given to floor and roof areas are determined as follows:
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(i) For posts supporting floor area (A F):

(A) Permanent live load — Q1 = 0.5 A F.
(B) Transient live load — Q2 = 1.5 A F.
(ii) For posts supporting roof area (AR ) — Q3 = (1.8 + 0.12 A R ) or 0.25 A R ,
whichever is greater.
NOTES:
1 Live loads Q2 and Q 3 are not considered to act simultaneously.
2 Units for areas A F and AR are square metres.
(c) Wind loads The concentrated wind load, Wu (in kN), applicable for the strength limit
state arising from support given to roof areas is calculated as follows:
Wu = qu Cpt AR . . . 3.1.2
where
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the ultimate limit state;
values of qu are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients for roof areas supported by posts, as given in
Table 3.1.2
AR = roof area supported, in square metres

TABLE 3.1.2
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR ROOF AREAS
SUPPORTED BY POSTS — STRENGTH
Wind classification C pt
N1 to N4
or + 0.4 or −1.2
C1 to C3

3.1.2.3 Structural models and load categories for strength design

Posts are designed as simple columns supporting an axial concentrically applied load. Load
combinations used to determine the design action effects in compression ( N c* ) and tension
( N t* ) are given in Table 3.1.3. Design action effects given in Table 3.1.3 are divided into
load categories that are used for the determination of the corresponding member design
capacity as specified in Clause 3.1.2.4.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 65 AS 1684.1—1999

TABLE 3.1.3
DESIGN ACTION EFFECTS AND
LOAD CATEGORIES — STRENGTH
Load categories Design action effects
1 N *c = 1.25 (G + Q1 )
2 N *c = 1.25 G + 1.5 Q 2
3 N *c = 1.25 (G + Q 1) + 1.5 Q3
N *c = 1.25 (G +Q1 ) + W u↓
4
N *t = 0.8 G + Wu ↑

3.1.2.4 Member design capacity

The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied to determine member design capacities in
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compression and tension. The following assumptions and modification factors are used:
(a) Load duration factor The member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k1). Values of k 1 appropriate for each load category, as defined in
Table 3.1.3, are given in Table 3.1.4.
(b) Moisture content of timber:
(i) Unseasoned timber — for load categories 2, 3 and 4, values of k 4 appropriate for
thickness as given in AS 1720.1 are used. For load category 1, k 4 = 1.0.
(ii) Seasoned timber — k4 = 1.0 for all load categories.
(c) Strength sharing Strength sharing is not considered to apply for posts, i.e. k 9 = 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 3.1.4
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH
Load category Load duration factor (k 1 )
1 0.57
2 0.80
3 0.94
4 1.15

3.1.3 Design for serviceability

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

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 AS 1684.1—1999 66

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 each side of opening, which 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) required to carry concentrations of vertical load arising from support
for principal roof or floor supporting members.
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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 in the depth of the studs (see Figure 3.2).

Rafter or truss
Rafter of truss spacing
Rafter/truss
spacing

Upper
floor
joist
Stud height

Stud height

Stud
Stud
spacing
Stud spacing

(a) Single or upper storey (b) Lower storey

FIGURE 3.2 LOADBEARING WALL STUDS

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 67 AS 1684.1—1999

3.2.2 Design for safety

3.2.2.1 General consideration
Design for safety includes 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 is also determined.
3.2.2.2 Loads
The loads used for the determination of the design action effects are determined as follows:
(a) Dead loads The concentrated dead loads (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 as given in Table 3.2.1.
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TABLE 3.2.1
AXIAL DEAD LOADS SUPPORTED BY STUDS
Studs
supporting
Common studs Jamb studs
Application concentrated
loads
Axial dead loads, G (kN)
Upper storey or
single storey
walls—
(a) sheet roof 0.4 (RLW)S 1 0.4 (RLW) (Wo /2 + 0.3) 0.4 AR
(b) tile roof 0.9 (RLW)S 1 0.9 (RLW) (Wo /2+ 0.3) 0.9 AR
Lower storey
walls of two-
storey
construction—
(a) Roof, upper
wall and
floor:
[0.4 (RLW) + 0.4 + 0.4 (FLW) [0.4(RLW) + 0.4 + 0.4 (FLW)
—sheet roof 2 2 
+ 0.025 (FLW) ] S 2 + 0.025 (FLW) ] (Wo /2 + 0.3)
[0.9 (RLW) + 0.4 + 0.4 (FLW) [0.9 (RLW) + 0.4 + 0.4 (FLW)
—tile roof 2 2 
+ 0.025 (FLW) ] S 2 + 0.025 (FLW) ] (Wo /2 + 0.3)
2 2
(b) Floor only [0.4 (FLW) + 0.025 (FLW) ] S 2 [0.4 (FLW) + 0.025 (FLW) ] (W o /2 + 0.3) 0.4 AF

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

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 AS 1684.1—1999 68

(b) Live loads Concentrated live loads, Q1 , Q2 and Q3 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 as given in
Table 3.2.2.

TABLE 3.2.2
AXIAL LIVE LOADS SUPPORTED BY STUDS
Studs supporting
Common studs Jamb studs
Application concentrated loads
Axial live loads (kN)
Q1 = 0 Q1 = 0 Q1 = 0
Upper storey or single Q 2 = 0.25 (RLW)S 1 Q 2 = 0.25 (RLW)(Wo /2 +0.3) Q 2 = 0.25 A R
storey walls
Q3 = 0 Q3 = 0 Q3 = 0
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Lower storey walls of Q 1 = 0.5 (FLW)S 2 Q 1 = 0.5 (FLW) (Wo /2 + 0.3) Q 1 = 0.5 A F
two-storey Q2 = 0 Q2 = 0 Q2 = 0
construction Q 3 = 1.5 (FLW)S 2 Q 3 = 1.5 (FLW) (Wo /2 + 0.3) Q 3 = 1.5 A F
LEGEND:
RLW = roof load width supported by the wall, in metres
FLW = floor load width supported by the wall, in metres
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 live load
Q3 = short term floor live load

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 69 AS 1684.1—1999

(c) Wind loads Wind loads for studs are considered applied as axial concentrated loads
(Wua) and uniformly distributed lateral loads (Wuw). Expressions used for the
determination of Wua and Wuw for common studs, jamb studs and studs supporting
concentrated loads are determined as given in Table 3.2.3.

TABLE 3.2.3
AXIAL AND LATERAL WIND LOADS FOR STUDS
Studs supporting
Type of load Common studs Jamb studs
concentrated loads
Studs in upper W ua (kN) q u C ptr (RLW) S 1 q u C ptr (RLW) (Wo /2 + 0.3) q u C ptr A R
storey or single
storey walls W uw (kN/m) q u C ptw S s q u C ptw (Wo /3 + 0.3) Not applicable
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Studs in lower W ua (kN) q u C ptr (RLW) S s q u C ptr (RLW) (Wo /2 + 0.3) Not considered
storey walls of two-
storey construction W uw (kN/m) q u C ptw S s q u C ptw (Wo /3 + 0.3) Not applicable

LEGEND
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure for the ultimate limit state; values of q u are given in Table B2,
Appendix B, for each wind classification
C ptr = net pressure coefficients for roof areas supported by the wall as given in Table 3.2.4
C ptw = net pressure coefficients for walls, as given in Table 3.2.4
S1 = greater of the rafter or stud spacing, in metres
Ss = stud spacing, in metres
Wo = width of opening between jamb studs, in metres
AR = roof area supported, in square metres

TABLE 3.2.4
PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS
FOR ROOF AND WALLS — STRENGTH
Wind classification C ptr C ptw
N1 to N4 +0.70 or −1.1 +1.00
C1 to C3 +0.9 or −1.6 − 1.35

NOTE: Positive pressure coefficient indicates an inwards pressure.

3.2.2.3 Structural models and load categories for strength design

The structural model used to calculate the member design action effects is shown in
Table 3.2.5. For the determination of design action effects, axial loads are assumed
concentrically applied and maximum bending moments are determined as given in
Table 3.2.5.
Load combinations given in Table 3.2.5 are divided into load categories that are used for
the determination of the corresponding member design capacity as specified in
Clause 3.2.2.4.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 70

TABLE 3.2.5
STRUCTURAL MODEL AND LOAD CATEGORIES — STRENGTH

Structural model

Studs supporting concentrated

Common stud Jamb stud
loads

P = axial, concentric load

P P

Uniformly
distributed L L L
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w
lateral load
(w)

NOTES: M = 0.125 w L 2 M=0

1 For notched studs, the notch is
assumed located at mid-height.
2 M = c w L2
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 = (0.0306 L − 0.003).

Load category Design loads

1 P = 1.25 (G + Q 1) and w=0
2 P = 1.25 G + 1.5Q 3 and w=0
3 P = 1.25 G + 1.5Q 2 and w=0
P = 1.25 (G + Q 1) + K c W ua ↓ and w = K c W uw
4 P = 0.8G + K c Wua ↑ and w = K c W uw
P = 1.25 (G + Q 1) and w = Wuw
NOTE: Where K c = 0.8 is the wind pressure combination factor applicable where load effect results from wind
pressure on two or more surfaces.

3.2.2.4 Member design capacity

The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied to determine member design capacities in
compression, tension and bending and in combined bending and compression and bending
and tension. The following assumptions and modifications factors are used:
(a) Load duration factor The member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k 1). Values of k 1 appropriate for each load category, as defined in
Table 3.2.5, are given in Table 3.2.6.
(b) Moisture content of timber:
(i) Unseasoned timber — for load category 4 give in Table 3.2.5, values of k 4
appropriate for thickness as specified in AS 1720.1 are used. For load
categories 1, 2 and 3, k4 = 1.0.
(ii) Seasoned timber — k4 = 1.0 for all load categories.
© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au
 71 AS 1684.1—1999

(c) Strength sharing:

(i) For common studs — the strength sharing factor (k 9 ) is applied for bending only,
assuming nmem = 5 and n com = number of sections combined in a stud.
(ii) For jamb studs — the strength sharing factor (k 9 ) 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 (k 9 ) 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.
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(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
g13 L, where L is the height of the stud and g 13 is determined as follows:
(1) For common studs:
• L ≤ 2.4 m, g 13 = 0.75
• L ≥ 4.2 m, g13 = 1.0
• 2.4 m ≤ L ≤ 4.2 m, g13 = (0.139 L + 0.417)
(2) For jamb studs — g 13 = 0.9.
(B) For buckling about the minor axis, L ay 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 (S 1 or S 4 ) is taken as the breadth of an
individual lamination.
(e) Notched studs — for studs up to 125 mm deep and 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.

TABLE 3.2.6
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH
Load category Load duration factor (k 1 )
1 0.57
2 0.94
3 0.97
4 1.15

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 AS 1684.1—1999 72

3.2.3 Design for serviceability

3.2.3.1 General consideration
Only the serviceability limit state for lateral deformation is 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.
3.2.3.2 Loads
The distributed wind loads (Wsw) used for the serviceability limit state for common studs
and for jamb studs are determined as shown in Table 3.2.7.

TABLE 3.2.7
 SERVICEABILITY
HORIZONTAL WIND LOAD
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Type of stud W sw (kN/m)

Common stud q s C ptw S
Jamb stud q s C ptw (Wo /3 + 0.3)
LEGEND:
q s = free stream dynamic gust pressure for the serviceability limit state;
values of q s are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind
classification
C ptw = net pressure coefficient for walls given in Table 3.2.8
S = spacing of studs, in metres
W o = width of opening in wall, in metres

TABLE 3.2.8
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR WALLS  SERVICEABILITY
Wind classification Net pressure coefficient for walls (C ptw)
N1 to N4
or 1.0
C1 to C3

3.2.3.3 Structural model for serviceability design

The structural model used to determine deflection under a uniformly distributed lateral load
is given in Table 3.2.9.
For studs notched for the installation of bracing the presence of notches is ignored in the
determination of deflection.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 73 AS 1684.1—1999

TABLE 3.2.9
STRUCTURAL MODEL FOR DETERMINATION OF DEFLECTION
Structural model
For common studs For jamb studs

Lateral load, w
Lateral load, w

L L
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NOTE: Max. deflection is calculated as follows: NOTE: Max. deflection is calculated as follows:
4 4
Deflection = c w L /(EI) Deflection = c w L /(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 .

3.2.3.4 Calculation of deflection

Deflection of studs under the serviceability wind load specified in Clause 3.2.3.2 is
calculated assuming the structural model specified in Clause 3.2.3.3. No modification is
required for duration of load for this case.
3.2.3.5 Serviceability limit
The deflection of common studs and jamb studs under the serviceability wind load 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.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 74

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 tie-
down 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 tie-down
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.
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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).

Rafter or truss Rafter or truss

spacing

Top plate
(single or
upper storey)

Upper
floor joist
or
f lo n g
r i
pe ac
Up s t s p
i
jo

Bottom plate
(single or
upper storey)
Stud
Top plate
(lower storey
of two storeys)

Stud Bottom plate

(lower storey
of two storeys)
Stud
spacing
Stud spacing

(a) Single or upper storey (b) Lower storey of two storeys

FIGURE 3.3 WALL PLATES FOR LOADBEARING WALLS

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 75 AS 1684.1—1999

3.3.2 Design for safety

3.3.2.1 General consideration
Wall plate design for safety includes consideration of the strength limit states for minor axis
bending and shear.
3.3.2.2 Loads
The vertical dead loads, live loads and wind loads 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 a two-storey construction are determined as follows:
(a) Dead loads — the concentrated dead load (G) is determined as given in Table 3.3.1.

TABLE 3.3.1
DEAD LOADS FOR WALL PLATES
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Application Dead load, G (kN)

Upper storey or single storey Top plates G = 0.01 RM (RLW) S R

walls Bottom plates G = 0.01 RM (RLW) S S + 0.4 S S
G = 0.01 RM (RLW) S J + 0.4 S J + 0.4 (FLW) S J +
Top plates
0.025 (FLW)2 S J
Lower storey walls
G = 0.01 RM (RLW) S S +.0.8 S S + 0.4 (FLW) S S +
Bottom plates
0.025 (FLW)2 S S
LEGEND:
RM = roof mass allowance —
2
(a) 40 kg/m for sheet roofs; and
2
(b) 90 kg/m 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) Live loads — the concentrated live loads (Q1 , Q2 and Q3 ) are given in Table 3.3.2.

TABLE 3.3.2
LIVE LOADS FOR WALL PLATES
Application Live loads (kN)

Upper storey or Top plates Q1 = 0 Q 2 = 0.25 (RLW) S R Q3 = 0

single storey walls Bottom plates Q1 = 0 Q 2 = 0.25 (RLW) S S Q3 = 0

Lower storey of Top plates Q 1 = 0.5 (FLW) S J Q2 = 0 Q 3 = 1.5 (FLW) S J

two storeys Bottom plates Q 1 = 0.5 (FLW) S S Q2 = 0 Q 3 = 1.5 (FLW) S S
LEGEND:
RLW = roof load width supported by the wall, in metres
FLW = floor load width supported by the wall, in metres
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 if live load
Q2 = roof live load
Q3 = short-term floor live load

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 AS 1684.1—1999 76

(c) Wind loads — the concentrated wind load (Wu ) considered acting vertically on wall
plates is determined as given in Table 3.3.3.

TABLE 3.3.3
VERTICAL WIND LOADS ON WALL PLATES
Application Wind load, W u (kN)
Top plates q u C ptr (RWL) S T
Upper storey or single storey walls
Bottom plates q u C ptr (RWL) S S
Top plates q u C ptr (RWL) S J
Lower storey of two storeys
Bottom plates q u C ptr (RWL) S S
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LEGEND:
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure for the ultimate limit state; values of q u are
given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind classification
C ptr = net pressure coefficients for roof areas given in Table 3.3.4
RLW = roof load width supported by the wall, in metres
ST = tie-down spacing tos top plate, in metres
SS = spacing of studs in wall, in metres
SJ = spacing of floor joists supported by wall, in metres

TABLE 3.3.4
PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR ROOF
Wind classification C ptr
N1 to N4 +0.70 or −1.1
A1 C1 to C3 +0.7 or −1.5

NOTE: Positive indicates inwards (downwards) pressure.

3.3.2.3 Structural models and load categories used for strength design
The design action effects for the strength limit states are determined assuming wall plates
are three span beams loaded by equally spaced concentrated loads arranged as shown in
Table 3.3.5. The spacing between loads and the design spans assumed for each type of wall
plate are given in Table 3.3.6.
The design loads and the load combination used for their computation are also given in
Table 3.3.6.
The design loads shown in Table 3.3.7 are divided into load categories that are used for the
determination of the corresponding member design capacities as specified in Clause 3.3.2.4.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 77 AS 1684.1—1999

TABLE 3.3.5
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES
FOR WALL PLATES — STRENGTH
Structural model
For determination of design action effect in
For determination of design action effect in shear
bending

P P P P P P P
SR SR SR SR SR

L/2 L/2 L L 1.5d

L L L
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LEGEND:
SR = load spacing (see Table 3.3.6)
L = span (see Table 3.3.6)
d = depth of plate
P = concentrated load (see Table 3.3.7)
NOTE: For design action effect in shear, loads within 1.5d of supports may be ignored.

TABLE 3.3.6
LOAD SPACING AND SPANS FOR WALL PLATES
Application Load spacing (S) Span (L)

Upper storey or Stud spacing except for uplift, tie-

Top plate Rafter/truss spacing
single storey down spacing
walls Bottom plate Stud spacing in wall Joist spacing

Lower storey of Top plate Upper floor joist spacing Stud spacing in lower storey wall
two storeys Bottom plate Stud spacing in lower storey wall Ground storey floor joist spacing

TABLE 3.3.7
DESIGN LOADS FOR WALL PLATES — STRENGTH
Load category Design loads
1 P = 1.25 (G + Q 1)
2 P = 1.25 G + 1.5 Q 3
3 P = 1.25 (G + Q 1) + 1.5 Q2
P = 1.25 (G + Q 1) + K c W u↓
4
P = 0.8 G + W u↑

NOTE: Where K c = 0.8 is the wind pressure combination factor, applicable

where the load effect results from wind pressure on two or more surfaces.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 78

3.3.2.4 Member design capacity

The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied to determine member design capacities in
bending and shear. The following assumptions and modifications factors are used:
(a) Load duration factor — the member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k1). Values of k 1 , appropriate for each load category defined in
Table 3.3.7, are given in Table 3.3.8.

TABLE 3.3.8
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH
Load category Load duration factor (k 1 )
1 0.57
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2 0.8
3 0.94
4 1.15

(b) Moisture content of timber:

(i) Unseasoned timber — for load categories 2, 3 and 4, values of k 4 appropriate for
member thickness as given in AS 1720.1 are used. For load category 1, k 4 = 1.0.
(ii) Seasoned timber — k4 = 1.0 for all load categories.
(c) Strength sharing — where multiple plates are used (ribbon plates) the strength sharing
factor (k9) is applied for the combination, assuming n mem = 1.0 and n com = number of
sections combined.
(d) Member restraint — wall plates are bent about their weak axis and, therefore, k 12 = 1.
(e) Composite action — for nail-laminated multiple plates (ribbon plates) composite
action is ignored.
(f) Trenches — the effect on strength of trenches up to 3 mm depth is ignored.
3.3.3 Design for serviceability
3.3.3.1 Loads
The dead loads and live loads used for the serviceability limit states are determined as
described in Clause 3.3.2.2.
3.3.3.2 Structural model and load categories for serviceability design
Deflections are calculated assuming wall plates are three span continuous beams supporting
uniformly spaced concentrated loads (P) with one load positioned at the middle of an end
span.
The design loads corresponding to the selected serviceability load combinations are given
in Table 3.3.9. Design loads given in Table 3.3.9 are divided into load categories for the
purpose of allowing for duration of load on stiffness as specified in Clause 3.3.3.3.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 79 AS 1684.1—1999

TABLE 3.3.9
DESIGN LOADS AND LOAD CATEGORIES —
SERVICEABILITY
Load categories Design loads
1 P = G + Q1
P = Q2
2
P = Q3

3.3.3.3 Calculation of deflection

The requirements of AS 1720.1 for the calculation of deflection are applied using the
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duration of load factor for creep deformation, j 2 given in Table 3.3.10 for load categories
defined in Table 3.3.9. The effect on deflection of trenches up to 3 mm deep and any
composite action of nail-laminated ribbon plates is ignored.

TABLE 3.3.10
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR DEFORMATION
Initial moisture content Load category 1 Load category 2
Seasoned 2.0 1
Unseasoned 3.0 1

3.3.3.4 Serviceability limits

The limits on deflection corresponding to the serviceability limit states defined in
Clause 3.3.3.3 are given in Table 3.3.11.

TABLE 3.3.11
LIMITS ON DEFLECTION
Load category Deflection limits
1 or 2 Span/200 or 3 mm max.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 80

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 a 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.
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For lintels, the limits on design deflections have been determined in order to maintain
clearances between the frame and the window or door frames contained within the wall
(see Figure 3.4).

Rafter or truss
ss
tru
r or g
fte cin
Ra s pa

Jack
stud

Lint el
(single or Lint el
upper trimmer
storey)
Lint el (lower
storey of two
Stud storeys)
an
l sp
te
Lin
Stud an
sp
t el
Li n

(a) Single or upper storey (b) Lower storey of two storeys

FIGURE 3.4 LINTELS

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 81 AS 1684.1—1999

3.4.2 Design of safety

3.4.2.1 General consideration
Design for safety includes consideration of the strength limit states in bending, shear and
bearing.
3.4.2.2 Loads
For lintels in single or upper storey walls, loads from rafters are considered applied as
regularly spaced uniform concentrated loads. Where load from a roof principal is supported,
an additional load related to the area of roof supported by the roof principal is considered.
For lintels in lower storey walls, roof, wall and floor loads are considered uniformly
distributed. Dead loads, live loads, and wind loads are determined as follows:
(a) Dead loads The dead loads considered include a uniformly distributed load (G1 )
regularly spaced uniform concentrated loads (G2 ) and, where a roof principal is
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supported, a single concentrated load (G3 ). Values of G1 , G2 and G3 are determined as

given in Table 3.4.1.

TABLE 3.4.1
DEAD LOADS
Application Dead loads 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 upper or single
storey walls supporting a G 2 = 0.01 (RM)(RLW) S R kN
concentrated roof load
G 3 = 0.01 (RM) A R kN
G 1 = self weight + 0.01 (RM)(RLW) + 0.4 (FLW)
Lintels in lower storey of kN/m
+ 0.025 (FLW)2 + 0.4
two-storey construction
G2 = G3 = 0 
LEGEND:
roof mass  40 kg/m for sheet roofs
2
RM =
 90 kg/m for tile roofs
2

RLW = roof load width supported by wall, in metres

AR = area of roof in square metres, supported by the lintel via a roof principal
FLW = floor load width supported by the wall, in metres
SR = rafter spacing, 0.6 m or 1.2 m

www.standards.com.au © Standards Australia

 AS 1684.1—1999 82

(b) Live loads The concentrated live loads (Q1 and Q2 ) for lintels in single or upper
storey walls, and the distributed live loads (Q3 , Q4 and Q5 ) for lintels in lower storey
of two storeys are given in Table 3.4.2.

TABLE 3.4.2
LIVE LOADS FOR LINTELS
Application Live loads Unit
Lintels in single or upper 1.8
storey walls — Q1 = + 0.12 S R (RLW) or 0.25 S R (RLW), whichever is greater kN
N
common lintels
Lintels in single or upper Q 1 = M S R (RLW)
storey walls supporting
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Q 2 = M AR
concentrated roof loads
where, kN
 1.8 
M =  + 0.12  or 0.25 kPa, whichever is greater
 AR + N S R ( RLW ) 
Lintels in lower storey of Q 3 = 0.25 (RLW)
two-storey construction
Q 4 = 0.50 (FLW) kN/m
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
RLW = roof load width supported by the wall, in metres
FLW = floor load width for the upper floor supported by the lower storey wall, in metres
Q 1 , Q 2 and Q 3 = roof live loads
Q4 = permanent floor live load
Q5 = short term floor live load

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 83 AS 1684.1—1999

(c) Wind loads The concentrated wind loads for lintels in single or upper storey walls
(WU1 and WU2) are determined as given in Table 3.4.3.

TABLE 3.4.3
WIND LOADS FOR LINTELS
Application Wind loads Unit
Lintels in single or upper storey walls — common
W U1 = q u Cpt S R (RLW) kN
lintels

Lintels in single or upper storey walls supporting W U1 = q u Cpt S R (RLW)

kN
a concentrated roof load W U2 = q u Cpt AR
Lintels in lower storey of two-storey construction (See Note below) 
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LEGEND:
qu = free stream dynamic gust pressure for the ultimate limit state; values of q u are
given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind classification
C pt = net pressure coefficient given in Table 3.4.4
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
RLW = roof load width supported by the wall, in metres
NOTE: Wind load for lower storey is not considered.

TABLE 3.4.4
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR LINTELS
Wind classification C ptr
N1 to N4 +0.56 or −1.1
C1 to C3 +0.72 or −1.6

NOTE: The positive net pressure coefficients include the

pressure combination factor, K c = 0.8, which allows for the
combined effect of positive wind pressure on the roof in
combination with negative internal pressure.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 84

3.4.2.3 Structural models, design loads and load categories

The structural models and design loads used to determine the member design action effects
are given in Table 3.4.5. Load combinations shown in Table 3.4.5 are divided into load
categories that are used in the determination of corresponding member design capacities as
specified in Clause 3.4.2.5.

TABLE 3.4.5
STRUCTURAL MODELS FOR LINTELS — STRENGTH
Structural model

Design Lintels in single or upper storey walls

Lintels in lower storey walls
action Lintels supporting of two storeys
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effect Common lintels

concentrated roof loads

P1 P1 P1 P1 (P 1+P 2) P1
SR SR SR SR
For bending

w w
w

L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2

P1 P1 P1 (P 1+P 2) P1 P1
For shear and

SR SR w SR SR w
w
bearing

1.5d 1.5d

Load
Design loads
category
w = 1.25 G 1 w = 1.25 G 1 w = 1.25 (G 1 + Q 4)
1 P 1 = 1.25 G 2 P 1 = 1.25 G 2
P 2 = 1.25 G 3
2   w = 1.25 (G 1 + Q 4) + 1.5 Q5
w = 1.25 G 1 w = 1.25 G 1
3 P 1 = 1.25 G 2 + 1.5 Q 1 P 1 = 1.25 G 2 + 1.5 Q 1 w = 1.25 (G 1 + Q 4) + 1.5 Q3
P 2 = 1.25 G 3 + 1.5 Q 2
w = 1.25 G 1 w = 1.25 G 1
P 1 = 1.25 G 2 + W U1 ↓ P 1 = 1.25 G 2 + W U1 ↓ 
P 2 = 1.25 G 3 + W U2 ↓
4
w = 0.8 G 1 w = 0.8 G 1
P 1 = 0.8 G 2 + W U1 ↑ P 1 = 0.8 G 2 + W U1 ↑ 
P 2 = 0.8 G 3 + W U2 ↑
NOTE: S R is rafter spacing, either 0.6 m or 1.2 m.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 85 AS 1684.1—1999

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, are determined as follows:
M* = M – 0.55 k1 . . . 3.4.2(1)
V* = V – 7.0 k1 . . . 3.4.2(2)
where
M = maximum bending moment, in kNm, determined using the design loads and
structural models given in Table 3.4.5
V = maximum shear force, in kN, determined using the design loads and structural
models given in Table 3.4.5
k1 = duration of load factor for strength given in Table 3.4.6 for the corresponding
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load category given in Table 3.4.5.

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.

TABLE 3.4.6
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH
Load category Load duration factor (k 1 )
1 0.57
2 0.80
3 0.94
4 1.15

3.4.2.5 Member design capacity

The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied to determine member design capacities in
bending, shear and bearing. The following assumptions and modification factors are used:
(a) Load duration factor The member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k1). Values of k 1 appropriate for each load category defined in
Table 3.4.5 are given in Table 3.4.6.
(b) Moisture content of timber:
(i) For unseasoned timber For load categories 3 and 4, values of k 4 appropriate
for member thickness as given in AS 1720.1 are used. For load categories 1 and
2, k4 = 1.0.
(ii) For seasoned timber k4 = 1.0 for all load categories.
(c) Strength sharing Where multiple sections of scantling timber are nail-laminated, the
strength sharing factor (k9 ) is applied for the combined member, assuming n mem = 1
and ncom = number of combined sections.
(d) Member restraint For the determination of bending capacity, the following
assumptions relating to lateral restraint are used:
(i) At supports — lintels are considered torsionally restrained at their supports.
(ii) Between supports — lintels are assumed torsionally restrained at 600 mm
centres.
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 and not the
overall breadth.
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 AS 1684.1—1999 86

3.4.3 Design for serviceability

3.4.3.1 Loads
The loads used for the serviceability limit states are given as follows.
(a) Dead and live loads The concentrated and uniformly distributed dead and live loads
applied to lintels are determined as given in Clause 3.4.2.2.
(b) Wind Loads For lintels in single or upper storey walls, wind load is considered
applied as a series of regularly spaced uniform concentrated loads (WS1 ) and, where a
roof principal is supported, an additional concentrated load (WS2 ). WS1 and WS2 (both
in kN) are determined as follows.
WS1 = q s Cpt SR (RLW) . . . 3.4.3(1)
WS2 = q s Cpt AR . . . 3.4.3(2)
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where
qs = free stream dynamic gust pressure, in kPa, for the serviceability limit
state; values of qs are given in Table B2, Appendix B, for each wind
classification
Cpt = net pressure coefficients give in Table 3.4.7
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

TABLE 3.4.7
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR LINTELS
Wind classification C pt

N1 to N4
+0.7, –1.1
C1 to C3

3.4.3.2 Structural models and load categories for serviceability design

The structural models for which deflections are calculated are given in Table 3.4.8. Load
cases given in Table 3.4.8 are divided into load categories for the purpose of allowing for
duration of load on stiffness as specified in Clause 3.4.3.3.
3.4.3.3 Calculation of deflection
The deflection of lintels is calculated taking into account the contribution of parallel
members by adding an allowance for their rigidity, EI = 21.3 x 10 9 Nmm2 , to the rigidity of
the lintel.
The requirements of AS 1720 for the calculation of deflection are applied using the duration
of load factor for creep deformation as given in Table 3.4.9.
3.4.3.4 Serviceability limits
The limits on deflection used to define the serviceability limit states are given in
Table 3.4.10.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 87 AS 1684.1—1999

TABLE 3.4.8
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES  SERVICEABILITY
Structural model
Load Lintels in single or upper storey walls
category Lintels in lower storey walls
Lintels supporting of two storeys
Common lintels
concentrated roof loads
(G 2+G 3)
G2 G2 G2 G2 G2
SR SR G1 SR SR G1 G 1 +Q4

L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2

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Q1 Q1 (Q 1+Q 2)
Q1 Q1 Q1 Q3
SR SR SR SR
2

L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2

Q5

(W S1+W S2)
W S1 W S1 W S1 W S1 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.

TABLE 3.4.9
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR DEFORMATION

Load duration factor ( j 2)

Initial moisture content
Load category 1 Load categories 2, 3 and 4
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0

TABLE 3.4.10
LIMITS ON DEFLECTION

Load category Deflection limits

1 Span/300 or 10 mm max.
2 Span/250 or 15 mm max.
3 Span/360 or 10 mm max.
4 Span/200

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 AS 1684.1—1999 88

S E C T IO N 4 D E S IG N O F F LO OR M E M BE R S

4.1 FLOOR JOISTS

4.1.1 Description
Floor joists are closely spaced parallel beams supporting overlying flooring. Their primary
purpose is to support floor loads. Floor joists may also be required to support ceilings and
loadbearing walls, which may run either parallel or perpendicular to the direction of the
joists (see Figure 4.1).

Floor bearer Floor joist

Roof Loads Roof Loads
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Loadbearing wall

Jo
ist
sp
an
g
Jo a cin
ist sp
sp i st
an Jo

FIGURE 4.1 FLOOR JOISTS

4.1.2 Design for Safety

4.1.2.1 General consideration
Floor joist design for safety includes consideration of the strength limit state for bending,
shear and bearing.
4.1.2.2 Loads
The values of the dead loads and live loads used for design are determined as follows:
(a) Dead loads — Table 4.1.1 gives expressions used for the determination of uniformly
distributed dead loads (G1 ) and concentrated dead loads (G2 ).

TABLE 4.1.1
DEAD LOADS
Distributed load, G1 Concentrated load, G2
Source of load
(kN/m) (kN)
Floor only:
2
— floor mass up to 40 kg/m 0.4 S + self weight 0
2
— floor mass up to 100 kg/m 1.0 S + 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.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 89 AS 1684.1—1999

(b) Live Loads — Table 4.1.2 gives equations for the determination of distributed live
loads (Q1 to Q4) and concentrated live loads (Q5 and Q6 ).
For the determination of the concentrated live load (Q5 ), a load distribution factor
(g42) is considered to apply for the joist grid system as follows:
(i) For bending — the value of the load distribution factor g 42 , 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:
For joist spacing ≤ 450 mm, E c I c = 1.72 × 10 × L (Nmm ) and n c = 1.0.
6 2
(A)
For joist spacing > 450 mm but ≤600 mm, E c I c = 2.66 × 10 × L (Nmm )
6 2
(B)
and nc = 1.0.
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where
E cIc = flexural rigidity of the flooring
L = span of floor joists, in mm
nc = number of crossing members (flooring)
(ii) For shear and bearing — g 42 = 1.0.

TABLE 4.1.2
LIVE LOADS
Type of load Load Unit
Permanent
Q1 = 0.5 S kN/m
— UDL
Transient
— UDL (houses) Q2 = 1.5 S kN/m
— Partial UDL Q3 = 0.75 S kN/m
— UDL (balcony or decks) Q4 = 3.0 S kN/m
— Conc. (houses) Q5 = g 42 × 1.8 kN
— Balcony line load Q6 = 1.5 S kN

NOTE: S = spacing of joists in metres

4.1.2.3 Structural models and load categories for strength

The structural models used to calculate the member design action effects are given in
Table 4.1.3. Load combinations shown in Table 4.1.3 are divided into load categories used
for the determination of member design capacity as specified in Clause 4.1.2.4.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 90

TABLE 4.1.3
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — STRENGTH
Load
Single span Continuous span Overhang (cantilevered)
category

1.25G2* 1.25G2*
1.25(G1 + Q1) 1.25(G1 + Q1) 1.25(G1+ Q1)

L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2

1.25G2* 1.25G + 1.5Q 1.25G2*

1 2 1.25G1 + 1.5Q2
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L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2

2

1.25G1 + 1.5Q2
0.8G1

(1.25G2 + 1.5Q5)* (1.25G2 + 1.5Q5)* 1.25G1 + 1.5Q4

1.25G1 1.25G1 1.25G1

L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2

1.5Q6
1.25G1

100
For deck joists only: For deck joists only:

1.25G1 + 1.5Q4 1.25G1 + 1.5Q4

* 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.

4.1.2.4 Member design capacity

The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied to determine member design capacities in
bending, shear and bearing. The following assumptions and modification factors are used:
(a) Load duration factor — the member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k1). Values of k 1 appropriate for each load category are given in
Table 4.1.4.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 91 AS 1684.1—1999

TABLE 4.1.4
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH
Load category Load duration factor (k 1 )
1 0.57
2 0.80
3 0.94

(b) Moisture content of timber:

(i) Unseasoned timber — for load categories 2 and 3 given in Table 4.1.3, values of
k4 appropriate to thickness as given in AS 1720.1 are used. For load category 1,
k4 = 1.0.
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(ii) Seasoned timber — k4 = 1.0 for all load categories.

(c) Strength sharing — for sawn timber floor joists, the strength sharing factor (k 9 ) is
applied, assuming n mem = 5 and n com = 1.0.
(d) Member restraint — for the determination of bending capacity the following
assumptions regarding lateral restraint are used:
(i) At supports — floor joists are assumed rotationally and torsionally restrained at
their supports.
(ii) Between 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, L ay = L/4.
4.1.3 Design for serviceability
4.1.3.1 General consideration
Floor joist design for serviceability includes consideration of the serviceability limit states
for flexural deformation and dynamic behaviour.
4.1.3.2 Loads
Dead loads and live loads used for the serviceability limit state are given as follows:
(a) Dead loads — expressions for the determination of the uniformly distributed dead load
G1, and concentrated dead load G2 , are given in Table 4.1.1.
(b) Live loads — equations for the determination of distributed live loads (Q1 to Q4 ) and
concentrated live load (Q6 ) are given in Table 4.1.2. Concentrated load, Q7 (in kN), is
determined as follows:
Q7 = g41 × 1.0 . . . 4.1.3
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 g 41 is calculated using the same
assumptions as used to calculate g 42 in Clause 4.1.2.2.
NOTE: The limit on deflection resultant from the application of the Q 7 load 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 live load for floors.
4.1.3.3 Structural models and load categories for serviceability design
The structural models for which deflections are calculated are given in Table 4.1.5. The
load cases given in Table 4.1.5 are divided into load categories for the purpose of allowing
for the effect of duration of load on stiffness, as specified in Clause 4.1.3.4.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 92

TABLE 4.1.5
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — SERVICEABILITY
Load
Single span Continuous span Overhang (cantilevered)
category
G2 G2
G1 + Q1 G1 + Q1 G1 + Q1

L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2

Q2 Q3 Q2 Q2
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2 Q6

100
Q7 Q7

3
L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2

4.1.3.4 Calculation of deflection

The requirements of AS 1720.1 for the calculation of deflections are applied using the load
duration factor for flexural deformation ( j 2 ) as given for each load category in Table 4.1.6.
4.1.3.5 Serviceability limits
For the purpose of assessing the serviceability limit states, the limits on deflection for each
of the load categories detailed in Table 4.1.5 are given in Table 4.1.7.

TABLE 4.1.6
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR DEFORMATION
Load duration factor ( j2)
Moisture content Load category 1 Load categories 2 and 3
(permanent loads) (transient loads)
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0

TABLE 4.1.7
LIMITS ON DEFLECTION
Limits on deflection
Load 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, ignore the
overhang/150 or overhang/180 limit.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 93 AS 1684.1—1999

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 dead loads 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).
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Upper
floor
joist

Upper
floor joist
spacing

Floor Bottom
joist plate
Top
plate

Loadbearing
wall

Loadbearing
wall
Bottom
Floor bearer Bearer plate
span Bearer
Floor bearer span

= pier, stump or other support

(a) Single or upper storey (b) Lower storey of two storeys

FIGURE 4.2 BEARER SUPPORTING LOADBEARING WALL

4.2.2 Design for safety

4.2.2.1 General consideration
Design for safety includes consideration of the strength limit states for bending, shear and
bearing.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 94

4.2.2.2 Loads
The loads used for determination of the design action effects are determined as follows:
(a) Dead loads — the uniformly distributed dead load (G) for each bearer type is
obtained by summing the loads from each applicable load source. Loads used for each
load source are given in Table 4.2.1.

TABLE 4.2.1
DEAD LOADS
Source of load Distributed dead load, G (kN/m)
Bearer supporting floor joists only. 0.4 (FLW) + 0.025 (FLW) 2 + self weight
Add the following, as applicable:
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(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)
2
(c) Support to floor above 0.4 (FLW) + 0.025 (FLW)
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) Live loads — distributed live loads Q1 , Q2 , Q4 and Q5 and concentrated live loads Q3
and Q6 are determined for each application, as appropriate, using the equations given
in Table 4.2.2.

TABLE 4.2.2
LIVE LOADS
Live load and application Load
Permanent
— due to floor directly supported (kN/m) Q 1 = 0.5 (FLW) 1
— due to floor above, if applicable (kN/m) + 0.5 (FLW) 2
Transient
(a) Distributed load
— due to floor directly supported (kN/m) Q 2 = 1.5 (FLW) 1
— due to floor above, if applicable (kN/m) + 0.75 (FLW) 2
(b) Concentrated load (kN) Q 3 = 1.8
(c) Cantilevered bearers supporting balcony
— distributed balcony load (kN/m) Q 4 = 3.0 (FLW) 1
— distributed back-span load (kN/m) Q 5 = 0.75 (FLW) 1
— balcony line load (kN) Q 6 = 1.5 (FLW) 1
(d) Distributed load for decks Q 7 = 3.0 (FLW) 1
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

NOTE: Roof live loads are not considered to be applied at the same time as full
floor live load.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 95 AS 1684.1—1999

4.2.2.3 Structural models and load categories for strength

The structural models used to calculate the member design action effects are given in
Table 4.2.3. Load combinations shown in Table 4.2.3 are divided into load categories that
are used for the determination of member design capacity as specified in Clause 4.2.2.4.
4.2.2.4 Member design capacity
The requirements of AS 1720.1 are applied to determine member design capacities in
bending, shear and bearing. The following assumptions and modification factors are used:
(a) Load duration factor — the member design capacity includes the modification factor
for load duration (k1). Values of k 1 appropriate for each load category, as defined in
Table 8.10, are given in Table 8.11.
(b) Moisture content of timber:
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(i) Unseasoned timber — for load categories 2 and 3 given in Table 4.2.3, values of
k4 appropriate to thickness as given in AS 1720.1 are used. For load category 1,
k4 = 1.0.
(ii) Seasoned timber — k4 = 1.0 for all load categories.
(c) Strength sharing — for nail-laminated members, the strength sharing factor (k 9 ) is
applied for the combined member, assuming n mem = 1.0 and n com = number of
combined sections.
(d) Member restraint — for the determination of bending capacity the following
assumptions relating to lateral restraint are used:
(i) At supports — bearers are assumed torsionally restrained at their supports.
(ii) Between 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, L ay = L/4.

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 AS 1684.1—1999 96

TABLE 4.2.3
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — STRENGTH
Load
Single span Continuous span Cantilevered
category
1.25(G +Q1) 1.25(G +Q1) 1.25(G +Q1)

1.25G +1.5Q2 1.25G +1.5Q2

2 1.25G +1.5Q2
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0.8G

1.5Q3 1.5Q3 1.5Q6

1.25G 1.25G 1.25G

L/2 L/2 L/2 L/2

100
1.25G + 1.5Q4
1.25G
3

For deck bearers only: For deck bearers only:

1.25G +1.5Q7 1.25G +1.5Q7

NOTE: Concentrated load, Q3 is considered applied at midspan (as shown) for bending, or at 1.5d from supports for
shear, or at supports for bearing.

TABLE 4.2.4
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR STRENGTH
Load category Load duration factor (k 1 )
1 0.57
2 0.80
3 0.94

4.2.3 Design for serviceability

4.2.3.1 Loads
The dead loads and live loads used to determine deflections for the serviceability limit state
are determined as follows:
(a) Dead loads — the uniformly distributed dead load (G) is determined as specified in
Clause 4.2.2.2.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 97 AS 1684.1—1999

(b) Live Loads — uniformly distributed live loads (Q1 , Q2 and Q3 ) and concentrated live
loads (Q4 and Q5) are determined as specified in Table 4.2.5.

TABLE 4.2.5
LIVE LOADS—SERVICEABILITY
Type of load Load
Permanent:
— due to floor directly supported (kN/m) Q 1 = 0.5 (FLW) 1
— due to floor above, if applicable (kN/m) + 0.5 (FLW) 2
Transient (see Note below)
(a) Distributed load (kN/m) Q 2 = 1.5 (FLW)1
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Q 3 = 0.75 (FLW)1
(b) Concentrated load (kN) Q 4 = 1.8
(c) Balcony line load (kN) Q 5 = 1.5 (FLW)1
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 live load on the floor directly supported is considered.

4.2.3.2 Structural models and load categories for serviceability design

The structural models for which deflections are calculated are given in Table 4.2.6. The
load cases given in Table 4.2.6 are divided into load categories for the purpose of allowing
for the effect of duration of load on stiffness, as specified in Clause 4.2.3.4.
4.2.3.3 Calculation of deflection
The requirements of AS 1720.1 for the calculation of deflection are applied using the load
duration factor for flexural deformation ( j 2 ) as given for each load category in Table 4.2.6.

TABLE 4.2.6
STRUCTURAL MODELS AND LOAD CATEGORIES — SERVICEABILITY
Load
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

100

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 AS 1684.1—1999 98

TABLE 4.2.7
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR DEFORMATION

Load duration factor ( j2 )

Initial moisture
content Load category 1 Load category 2
(permanent loads) (transient loads)
Seasoned 2.0 1.0
Unseasoned 3.0 1.0

4.2.3.4 Serviceability limits

For the purpose of assessing the serviceability limit states, the limits on deflection used for
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each of the load categories detailed in Table 4.2.6 are given in Table 4.2.8.

TABLE 4.2.8
LIMITS ON DEFLECTION

Limits on deflection
Load 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, ignore the
overhang/150 or overhang/180 limits.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 99 AS 1684.1—1999

SECTION 5 DETERM INAT IO N O F UP LIFT

FOR C E S

5.1 SCOPE AND GENERAL

5.1.1 Scope of Section
This Section describes how the net uplift pressures and net uplift forces given in AS 1684.2
and AS 1684.3 for the determination of tie-down requirements have been 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 dead load and any permanent component of live load resisting
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uplift.
In AS 1684.2 and AS 1684.3 the uplift forces to be resisted for tie-down are determined as
the product of the roof area supported and the net uplift pressures given for the level where
the tie-down is located.
For uplift pressures 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
given in AS 1684.2 and AS 1684.3 are equivalent values derived assuming the uplift load
width is one half the building width. The values tabulated in AS 1684.2 and AS 1684.3 are
upper bound values applicable where the ratio of height (h) to width (w) does not exceed
one (see Figure 5.1).

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 to supporting walls or directly to floor frames or slab are given as follows:
(a) Roof battens The net uplift pressures to be resisted by tie-down connectors at each
rafter, pu* (kPa) is given by the following equation:
pu * = qu Cpt – 0.8 G . . . 5.2.1(1)
where,
Cpt = net pressure coefficient for roof battens given in Table 5.1
G = dead load of roof, 0.1 kPa for sheet roofs or 0.6 kPa for tile roofs.

TABLE 5.1
NET PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR ROOF BATTENS—UPLIFT

C pt
Wind classification
General areas Areas within 1.2 m of an edge
N1 to N4 1.1 2.0
C1 to C3 1.6 2.5

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 AS 1684.1—1999 100

(b) Roof frame to wall or directly to floor frame or slab The net uplift pressure at each
tie-down, p u* (kPa), is given by the following equation:
pu * = qu Cpt – 0.8 G . . . 5.2.1(2)
where
Cpt = net pressure coefficient for roof uplift as given in Table 5.2.
G = dead load of roof taken as 0.4 kPa for sheet roofs, or 0.9 kPa for tile
roofs

TABLE 5.2
NET PRESSSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR ROOF UPLIFT
A1
C pt
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Wind
classification Tile roof Sheet roof
N1 and N2 0.9 1.1
N3 and N4 1.1 1.1
C1 to C3 1.6 1.6

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 (p u1 *), 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 *, are determined as follows:
(a) pu1* = qu (Ka Cpe + Cpi) – 0.8 (G + Qp ) . . . 5.2.2(1)
where,
Ka = 0.8, roof area reduction factor given in AS 1170.2 for areas greater than
100 m2 , 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 5.3 according to wind classification and location
where the net uplift is being determined
G = dead load resisting uplift from Table 5.4 according to the level where
the net uplift is being determined
Qp = permanent floor live load resisting uplift from Table 5.4 according to the
level where the net uplift is being determined

TABLE 5.3
INTERNAL PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR DETERMINATION OF NET
UPLIFT PRESSURE

Wind classification Location C pi

Bottom plate level +0.2
N1 to N4
Subfloor level 0
Bottom plate level +0.7
C1 to C3
Subfloor level 0
NOTE: At bottom plate level, internal pressure on the roof contributes to uplift, whereas for subfloor
(either single, upper, or lower storey) the internal pressure on floor and roof equalizes.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 101 AS 1684.1—1999

TABLE 5.4
DEAD LOAD AND PERMANENT LIVE LOAD RESISTING UPLIFT

PERMANENT LIVE
DEAD LOAD (G),
LOCATION LOAD (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
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of two storeys Sheet roof 1.2 + 4/W

Subfloor level 1.0
Tile roof 1.7 + 4/W

(b) pu*2 =
K c qu
W 2
[C ptw h
2
( )( ) ( )(
− C pe1 − C pi 0.75h 2 − 2hr h − hr2 − C pe2 − C pi 0.25h 2 + 2hr h + hr2 )]
− 0.8 (G + Qp ) . . . 5.2.2(2)
where
Kc = 0.8, pressure combination factor applicable where the action effect
arises from pressure on two or more surfaces
Cptw = combined pressure coefficient for the windward and leeward walls from
Table 5.5 according to roof pitch (α)
Cpe1 = external pressure coefficient for the windward roof slope from Table 5.6
according to roof slope (α) and h/W ratio
Cpe2 = external pressure coefficient for the leeward roof slope from Table 5.7
according to roof slope (α) and h/W ratio
Cpi = internal pressure coefficient from Table 5.3 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) tanα, where W is width across the outer walls and α is roof pitch
(see Figure 5.1)
G = dead load resisting uplift from Table 5.4 according to level where net
uplift is being determined
Qp = permanent floor live load resisting uplift from Table 5.4 according to
level where net uplift is being determined
W = overall width across external walls (see Figure 5.1)

TABLE 5.5
COMBINED PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR WINDWARD
AND LEEWARD WALLS ( θ = 0°° )
α)
Roof pitch (α α < 10° 10° ≤ α ≤ 15° α = 20° α ≥ 25°
Pressure coefficient (Cptw ) 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.2

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 AS 1684.1—1999 102

TABLE 5.6
EXTERNAL PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR WINDWARD
ROOF areas
Pressure coefficient (Cpe1)
h/W
α)
Roof pitch (α
ratio
< 10°° 10°° 15°° 20°° 25°° 30°° 35°°
−0.9 −0.7 –0.5 –0.3 –0.2 –0.2
≤0.25 or or or or or or +0.4
−0.4 −0.4 0 +0.2 +0.3 +0.3
–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 +0.2 +0.3
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–1.3 –1.3 –1.0 –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 +0.2

NOTES:
1 Where two values are given, both values are considered.
2 Values interpolated either between first given values or second given values; not
between first and second given values.

TABLE 5.7
EXTERNAL PRESSURE COEFFICIENTs FOR LEEWARD
ROOF areas
Pressure coefficient (C pe2)
h/W ratio α)
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

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 103 AS 1684.1—1999

C p e1 C pe2

hr
a

C pi C pi

C pi C pi
h
Single or upper storey
bottom plate level
C ptw W
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C p e1 C pe2

hr
a

C pi C pi
C pi C pi C pi
h
Single or upper storey
subfloor level
C ptw W

C p e1 C pe2

hr
a
C pi C pi
C pi C pi C pi
h

C pi C pi C pi
Lower storey of two-storey
bottom plate level
C ptw W

C p e1 C pe2

hr
a
C pi C pi
C pi C pi C pi
h

C pi C pi C pi
Lower storey of two-storey
subfloor level
C ptw W

FIGURE 5.1 NOTATION

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 AS 1684.1—1999 104

S E C T ION 6 P R E S S UR ES F OR
DETERM INAT IO N O F RACKIN G FORCES

6.1 SCOPE AND GENERAL

6.1.1 Scope of Section
This Section describes how the equivalent pressures tabulated in AS 1684.2 and AS 1684.3
for use with projected areas, for the calculation of racking loads to be resisted by bracing
have been 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.
6.1.2 Notation
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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)
L = length of building, in metres (see Figure 6.1)
α = roof pitch, in degrees (see AS 1170.2 and Figure 6.1)
θ = wind direction, in degrees (see AS 1170.2)
h = height to eaves, in metres (see AS 1170.2)
d = plan dimension of building or part of building parallel to the wind direction, in
metres (see AS 1170.2)
b = plan dimension of building or part of building perpendicular to wind direction, in
metres (see AS 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
q u are given in Table B2, Appendix B, 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 eaves
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).
(b) Buildings are assumed enclosed underneath the lower floor.
(c) The floor depth of upper floors (HF) is assumed to be 0.3 m.
(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.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 105 AS 1684.1—1999

(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 and Table 6.2,
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 6.3.

Projected areas
for determination Hips
of singl e or upper (if hi p-ended roof)
storey racking loads
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Ceiling

Floor

Ceili ng

Floor

End elevati on Si de elevation

θ = 0°
Hips
(if hi p-ended roof)
Ridge

θ = 90°
Pl an

FIGURE 6.1 NOTATION

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 AS 1684.1—1999 106

TABLE 6.1
COMBINED PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR WALLS—WIND
DIRECTION PARALLEL TO ROOF SLOPE*
α)
Roof pitch (α α < 10° 10° ≤ α ≤ 15° α = 20° α ≥ 25°
C pt, wall 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.2
* For θ = 0° and for hip ends, θ = 90°.

TABLE 6.2
COMBINED PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR WALLS—
WIND DIRECTION PERPENDICULAR TO ROOF SLOPE*
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d/b ≤1 2 ≥4
C pt, wall 1.2 1.0 0.9
* For θ = 90° for gable or skillion roof ends.

TABLE 6.3
COMBINED PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR ROOFS—WIND
DIRECTION PARALLEL TO ROOF SLOPE*
Cpt, roof
Ratio h/d α)
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
* For θ = 0° and for 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 for calculation of the
racking load for bracing in single or upper storey, or the lower of two-storey or subfloor
walls is determined from the following equation:
p = qu Cpt,wall Kc . . . 6.2(1)
where
Cpt,wall = 1.2, as given in Table 6.2 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.

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 107 AS 1684.1—1999

W W W
Wind Wind
direction direction
Wind direction

W W W
Wind
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Wind direction
direction Wind direction

FIGURE 6.2 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 6.3 for calculation of
the racking load for bracing in single or upper storey walls is determined from the
following equation:
p = qu K c [C pt, wall (H u / 2) + C pt, roof (W/2) tan α] . . . 6.2(2)
( H u / 2) + (W/2) tan α
where
Cpt,wall = value from Table 6.1 for roof pitch, α
Cpt, roof = value from Table 6.3, for roof pitch α, and assuming (h/d) = (Hu /W).
Kc = 0.8, pressure combination factor
NOTES:
1 The assumption that h/d = H u/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 di rection W
di rection

FIGURE 6.3 SIDE ELEVATIONS — SINGLE OR UPPER STOREY —

GABLE OR HIP-ENDED ROOFS

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 AS 1684.1—1999 108

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 6.4 for calculation of the racking
force for bracing in the lower storey of two-storey walls is determined from the following
equation:
q K [C ( H u + H F + H L / 2) + C pt, roof (W/2) tan α]
p = u u pt, wall . . . 6.2(3)
( H u + H F + H L / 2) + (W/2) tan α
where
Cpt,wall = value determined from Table 6.1 for roof pitch (α)
Cpt,roof = value determined from Table 6.3 for roof pitch (α) and assuming
(h/d) = (Hu + HF + HL)/W
Kc = 0.8, pressure combination factor
NOTES:
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1 The assumption that h/d = (H u + H F + H L)/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
Wind Wind W
direction direction

FIGURE 6.4 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 6.5 for calculation of racking loads
for bracing in single or upper storey walls is determined from the following equation.

p = q u K c [C pt, wall (H u / 2) + C pt, roof (W/4) tan α] . . . 6.2(4)

( H u / 2) + (W/4) tan α
where
Cpt,wall = 1.2
Cpt,roof = value obtained from Table 6.3 for roof pitch (α) with h/d = Hu /L and
assuming L = W
Kc = 0.8, pressure combination factor

W Wind
direction

FIGURE 6.5 END ELEVATION — SINGLE OR UPPER STOREY — HIP-ENDED ROOF

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 109 AS 1684.1—1999

6.2.5 End elevation, lower storey of two storeys, hip-ended roof

The equivalent pressure (p) on the projected area shown in Figure 6.6 for calculating
racking loads for bracing in walls of the lower storey of two-storey walls is determined
from the following equation:
qu K c [C pt, wall ( H u + H F + H L / 2) + C pt, roof (W/4) tan α]
p = . . . 6.2(5)
( H u + H F + H L / 2) + (W/4) tan α
where
Cpt,wall = 1.2
Cpt,roof = value obtained from Table 6.3 for roof pitch (α) and assuming
h/d = (Hu + HF + HL)/L and L = 1.5W
Kc = 0.8, pressure combination factor
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W Wind
direction

FIGURE 6.6 END ELEVATION — LOWER STOREY OF TWO STOREYS—

HIP-ENDED ROOF

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 AS 1684.1—1999 110

APPENDIX A
CHARACTERISTIC BEAM SHEAR STRENGTHS FOR F-GRADES
(Normative)
The characteristic beam shear strengths for F-grades given in Table A1 have been used for
the calculation of beam shear capacity. The adoption of these characteristic beam shear
strengths is deemed to satisfy an acceptable level of safety when applied for the design of
structural members contained in this Standard.

TABLE A1
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CHARACTERISTIC BEAM SHEAR STRENGTHS FOR F-GRADES

Characteristic beam shear strengths, f s′ (MPa)

F-grade
Hardwood Softwood

F34 6.3 —
F27 5.9 —
F22 5.6 —

F17 5.2 —
F14 4.8 7.6
F11 4.7 6.8

F8 4.2 5.2
F7 — 4.4
F5 — 3.7

F4 — 3.1

NOTES:
1 Use of the characteristic beam shear strength values in AS 1720.1 results in some
wall plates and continuous span bearers being design critical for shear for spans
and loadings for which there has been considerable experience of successful use.
2 It is commonly observed in testing of timber beams that it is difficult to induce a
shear mode of failure.
3 In-grade testing of a range of species and grades confirm that the characteristic
values for beam shear given in AS 1720.1 for F-grades are conservative.

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 111 AS 1684.1—1999

APPENDIX B
WIND CLASSIFICATIONS AND DYNAMIC GUST PRESSURES
(Normative)

B1 WIND CLASSIFICATIONS
The span tables, racking pressures and uplift forces given in this Standard, AS 1684.2 and
AS 1684.3, have been determined for wind classifications 
(a) N1 to N4 applicable for non-cyclonic regions A and B; and
(b) C1, C2, and C3 for cyclonic regions.
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The wind classifications correspond to bands of design wind speed for the ultimate and
serviceability limit state. Wind classifications corresponding to the maximum design wind
speeds for the ultimate and serviceability limit states are given in Table B1.

TABLE B1
WIND CLASSIFICATIONS
Maximum design 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 AS 1684.2, AS 1684.3 and AS 1684.4 permit the above classifications to be adopted
for design wind speeds up to 5% greater than the maximum values given for each
classification.

B2 FREE STREAM DYNAMIC GUST PRESSURE

The free stream dynamic gust pressure for the ultimate and serviceability limit states for
each wind classification given in Table B2 have been calculated in accordance with
AS 1170.2 using the maximum design wind speeds given in Table B1.

TABLE B2
FREE STREAM DYNAMIC GUST PRESSURES
Wind classification Free stream dynamic pressure, kPa
Regions A and B Regions C and D Ultimate limit state (q u) Serviceability limit state (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

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 AS 1684.1—1999 112

APPENDIX C
DESIGN OF OVERHANGS FOR PARALLEL BIRDSMOUTH NOTCHED
RAFTERS
(Normative)

C1 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.
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Further, the following design method includes 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.

C2 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) is taken as g 47 E r I r,
where g47 is a birdsmouth geometry factor that accounts for reduced rigidity due to the
birdsmouth notch and (E r I r) is the rigidity of the unnotched rafter.
The birdsmouth geometry factor is bounded by the range 0.25 ≤ g 47 ≤1.0 and in this range is
given by the following equation:
g47 = 1 − (5.7 dnotch / L o) . . . C2
where,
dnotch = depth of the birdsmouth notch, in mm (see Figure C1)
Lo = horizontal span of the overhang, in mm

d dn

d notch ≤ d/3
Birdsmouth M*
notch
V*

FIGURE C1 NOTATION AND SIGN CONVENTION

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 113 AS 1684.1—1999

C3 LOAD SHARING FOR PARALLEL RAFTER OVERHANGS

In the determination of the strength and serviceability limit states, concentrated and partial
area loads (P * and w*) applied to the overhanging portion of parallel rafters may be
assumed laterally distributed to adjacent rafters such that the effective concentrated load
(P *eff) or effective distributed load (w*eff) used for the design of an individual rafter may be
obtained as follows:
P *eff = g45 P* . . . C3(1)
and
w*eff = g45 w* . . . C3(2)
where
P* = design concentrated load
*
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w = design partial area load

g45 = the load distribution factor, which is bounded by the range 0.3 ≤ g 45 ≤ 1.0
and in this range is given by the following equation:
h 
g45 = 0.2 log10  r  + 0.69 . . . C3(3)
 hf 
where
Er I r
hr = g47 . . . C3(4)
L3o
Ef I f
hf = . . . C3(5)
S3
g47 Er I r = flexural rigidity of the rafter overhang, calculated in
accordance with Paragraph C2
Ef If = flexural rigidity of the fascia
Lo, S = horizontal span of overhang and spacing of rafters,
respectively

C4 RAFTER STRENGTH AT BIRDSMOUTH NOTCH

C4.1 Bending Strength
The design capacity in bending (φM) at the birdsmouth notch, for the strength limit state,
satisfies the following equation:
(φM) ≥ M* . . . C4.1(1)
where
(φM) = φ k1 k4 k6 k9 [ f b′ ] Zn . . . C4.1(2)
and
M* = design action effect in bending for negative moment as defined in
Figure C1
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/L o), but is not less than 1.0

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 AS 1684.1—1999 114

f b′ = characteristic strength in bending

Zn = net section modulus at notch
2
= (bdn /6), where b equals the breadth and d n equals the depth of rafter
above the birdsmouth notch (see Figure C1) (d n ≥ 2d/3)
C4.2 Shear strength at birdsmouth notch
The design capacity in shear at the birdsmouth notch for the strength limit state satisfies the
following equation:
φV ≥V
*
. . . C4.2(1)
where
φV = φ k1 k4 k6 [ f s′ ] As . . . C4.2(2)
and
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*
V = design action effect in positive shear (see Figure C1)
φ = capacity factor, given in AS 1720.1
k1, k4, k6 = modification factors given in AS 1720.1
f s′ = characteristic strength in shear
2
As = bdn
3
C4.3 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 C1, the maximum bending moment action effect (M*) and nominal
maximum shear force action effect (V*), calculated for the net section, complies with the
following interaction equation:

6M * 6V *
+ ≤ φ g50 k1 k4 k6 f sj′ . . . C4.3(1)
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
k1, k4, k6 = modification factors given in AS 1720.1
f sj′ = characteristic shear strength at joint details
g50 = coefficient for birdsmouth notch.
0.333
= 18/(d )
*
If, according to the sign convention shown in Figure C1, M is negative, it may be taken as
*
zero in the application of Equation C4.3(1). Similarly, if V is positive, it may also be taken
as zero in the application of Equation C4.3(1).

© Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 115 AS 1684.1—1999

AMENDMENT CONTROL SHEET

AS 1684.1—1999

Amendment No. 1 (2002)

CORRECTION

SUMMARY: This Amendment applies to CONTENTS, Tables 3.3.4 and 5.2.

Published on 2002-02-26.
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AS 1684.1—1999
116

NOTES
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