Metal Lath and Stucco Flexural Capacity 2

[ijcal]

Since metal lath and stucco are being proposed to be used in the ceiling of an exterior terrace, I want to find out if there are published values of its bending capacity. I am not worried about gravity loads, but since considerable uplift wind pressures will be acting against this surface in the event of a hurricane, I would like to find out a way to check its bending capacity. (of course assuming that it will be attached directly to the underside of wood trusses spaced at 24 in o.c., and that no plywood sheathing is attached to the underside of the trusses)

 

[Ron]

Keep in mind that the stucco will crack from shrinkage and restraint, such that trying to prevent such cracking in flexure is irrelevant.

Be more concerned with the attachment of the lath and the embedment of the lath into the stucco. Remember that the criteria for stucco placed horizontally are a bit different than stucco placed in a vertical plane.

I'm not sure where you are located, but if you are in the US, get familiar with ASTM C1063 and C926.