Reliability of Light-Frame Wall Systems Subject to Combined Axial and Transverse Loads

Wood frame walls are essential subassemblies used to transmit roof, floor, wind, and seismic loads into lower stories and eventually into the foundation of light-frame structures. There has been some discussion and debate in recent years over appropriate system factors for use in the design of repetitive wall members, which typically are much smaller in the cross section than floor joists. In addition to having greater flexibility than floors, wood stud walls also may be subject to the actions of combined loads, and their load-sharing behavior may be significantly influenced by the presence of openings. As a precursor to evaluating system factors for design, this study investigated load-sharing and system effects in light-frame walls subject to combined axial and transverse loads. An analytical model was developed to account for partial composite action, load-sharing, two-way action, and openings in the wall system. The model consisted of two main components: A system model and a member model. The system ...