Load sharing across nailed joint?
Load sharing across nailed joint?
(OP)
I have a horizontal timber ledger that is nailed at 200mm [8"] centres along its centre line to a supporting timber structure. The ledger will need to support a substantial point load.
Am I right in thinking that if the ledger is stiff enough I can assume that the shear load will be shared across a number of the nails? If so how can I determine the load sharing [and the required ledger stiffness] to check that the joint is not overloaded?
Thanks [if it helps the design will be checked against the UK timber standards]
Am I right in thinking that if the ledger is stiff enough I can assume that the shear load will be shared across a number of the nails? If so how can I determine the load sharing [and the required ledger stiffness] to check that the joint is not overloaded?
Thanks [if it helps the design will be checked against the UK timber standards]





RE: Load sharing across nailed joint?
Depending on the size of the load and the size of the ledger, I would use lag screws rather than nails, into the studs that are within a 2 to 3' length of the ledger. If necessary, install more or larger studs in the area of the load to attach the lags to. If the lags in the wood ledger are insufficient, consider adding thru-bolts with a steel bearing angle under the wood ledger.
Mike McCann
MMC Engineering
RE: Load sharing across nailed joint?
RE: Load sharing across nailed joint?
RE: Load sharing across nailed joint?
RE: Load sharing across nailed joint?
RE: Load sharing across nailed joint?
Thanks for all the thoughts so far