Slotted Hole Connection to Timber
Slotted Hole Connection to Timber
(OP)
Hi,
I’m dealing with the following scenario and am wondering if anyone here has encountered something similar and can offer a bit of guidance.
I’m designing a cross-laminated timber balustrade that’s braced with steel angles.
The angles are bolted to WT brackets which have lag screws to the CLT.
Where the lag screws connect to the balustrade, the brace supplier has shown vertical slotted holes in the WT bracket.
I've attached the cutsheet detail for reference.
Strictly in terms of structural performance, it would be ok if the connection could slide a small amount; however, I want to limit deflection in the balustrade to protect finishes and prevent any uneasiness if someone pushes on it.
I’m wary of trying to restrict sliding by relying on a tight connection and friction between the lag and the bracket. Can I achieve enough resistance screwing into the CLT, or is there another approach I can consider? I've looked for references dealing with slotted hole connections to timber and am coming up short; does anyone know of a reference that could apply to this scenario?
Thanks.
I’m dealing with the following scenario and am wondering if anyone here has encountered something similar and can offer a bit of guidance.
I’m designing a cross-laminated timber balustrade that’s braced with steel angles.
The angles are bolted to WT brackets which have lag screws to the CLT.
Where the lag screws connect to the balustrade, the brace supplier has shown vertical slotted holes in the WT bracket.
I've attached the cutsheet detail for reference.
Strictly in terms of structural performance, it would be ok if the connection could slide a small amount; however, I want to limit deflection in the balustrade to protect finishes and prevent any uneasiness if someone pushes on it.
I’m wary of trying to restrict sliding by relying on a tight connection and friction between the lag and the bracket. Can I achieve enough resistance screwing into the CLT, or is there another approach I can consider? I've looked for references dealing with slotted hole connections to timber and am coming up short; does anyone know of a reference that could apply to this scenario?
Thanks.






RE: Slotted Hole Connection to Timber
Just set the assembly where you want it and pre-drill and screw in the lags.
No need for slots.
Might be that the fabricator "thinks" they need slots in case the "bolts" that they "think" are going to connect the assembly are fixed in place.
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RE: Slotted Hole Connection to Timber
Why lag screws? We always use self-tapping screws for wood. But I work in Europe.
RE: Slotted Hole Connection to Timber
Some adjustment likely will be required later to get everything plumb.
RE: Slotted Hole Connection to Timber
RE: Slotted Hole Connection to Timber
RE: Slotted Hole Connection to Timber
I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.