Watch the video on Structural Tie-Downs.
Natural disasters and monster storms might provide some entertainment at the movies, but in real life, there's nothing amusing about a hurricane. Even as homeowners choose to build in tornado-, hurricane-, or earthquake-prone areas, builders are still required to deliver a home that will be safe, durable, and structurally sound for years to come.
While nothing can be done about the weather, the builder can take positive steps to help safeguard against catastrophic failure by creating a continuous load path in the home. The best practice for strengthening the frame of a home to reduce the damaging effects of wind is to use structural tie downs.
Structural tie downs are metal bands that are used to secure and reinforce the wood frame of the home at specific, vulnerable joints and intersections. When properly engineered and installed, structural tie downs can dramatically improve the home's ability to withstand wind gusts as well as lateral ground movement during earthquakes.
Installation of structural tie downs is an easy process and simple task. Here's how:
- Consult with an engineer to establish the minimum requirements for your specific geographical location.
- Identify what kind of structural tie down is needed for each part of the home. There are many varieties of tie downs on the market, and most have a specific use. Be sure to use the right tool for the right purpose.
- Install generously. Don't skimp on the number of tie downs; be sure to install enough that the home will be protected for many years.
- When attaching the tie downs, be sure to align the fastener properly and nail in place using all the holes in the plate.
A good rule-of-thumb for the builder is to build a house like it was their own. The common method of toe-nailing boards together will only provide about 300 lbs of connection load capacity. Joints secured with structural tie downs will have a connection load capacity in excess of 1,000 lbs. When preparing for a tornado or approaching hurricane, homeowners might not stop to thank the builder for the extra effort, but they will feel the benefits of a safer, more durable home.
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