Designing timber structures: An introduction

Designing timber structures is a timely introduction to timber engineering and design. Highly illustrated with over 250 drawings and photographs and including end-of-chapter worked examples

Understanding and specifying sustainable materials in building design is now critical for designers, if net zero carbon goals are to be achieved. Developed in collaboration with James Norman (University of Bristol) and Andrew Thomson (formerly of University of Bath), Designing timber structures is an essential primer for structural engineering students and more experienced graduates new to designing with timber - the only major renewable structural material for building.

Timber is introduced as a sustainable material; a key consideration in our current climate emergency. The following chapters describe timber design basics such as deflection, strength and buckling to enable the design of a timber floor and stud wall. Two chapters focus on key engineered timber products: glued laminated timber and cross-laminated timber. Finally, the authors address fire, acoustics, detailing, and key considerations regarding existing timber building.

Designing timber structures provides a foundation of the key basic principles for designing with wood and is written in an enthusiastic, energetic style to engage learners. Further reading references and links to online material and sources prompt students to explore the broad and complex spectrum of materials available for engineers as they gain experience.