Allowable Stresses in old timbers
Allowable Stresses in old timbers
(OP)
I am adding a new load to an existing carriage house built with wood timbers. I would like to find a reference to help me define the allowable stresses in a timber when the age, grade, history is not known.
This is for residential construction. My boss wants to park his Porshe Boxster under the timber, so I would like some good info prior to proceeding.
Thank you in advance.
This is for residential construction. My boss wants to park his Porshe Boxster under the timber, so I would like some good info prior to proceeding.
Thank you in advance.






RE: Allowable Stresses in old timbers
RE: Allowable Stresses in old timbers
Mirekp
Mechanical and engineering calculations
www.mitcalc.com
RE: Allowable Stresses in old timbers
Most of the time there is no definitive answer, that is what engineering judgement is -- an educated, conservative guess.
RE: Allowable Stresses in old timbers
There are too many factors to take into account without someone knowlegable in wood technology taking a look at the beams. Older lumber may actually be stronger than recent cut due to area harvested and type of timber in the forest. The grade of the lumber also has a tremendous impact on the strength e.g. how many knots and their location, type of cut to make the board, etc..
There are some good texts available but prime on your list should be The Wood Handbook from Forest Products Labratory.
While wood has several advantages over metal, conservatism in strength calcs is the rule.
Griffy
RE: Allowable Stresses in old timbers
RE: Allowable Stresses in old timbers
Have fun and don't ruin the boxter