The Analysis of Irregular Shaped Structures: Wood Diaphragms and Shear Walls

A complete guide to load path calculations in complex structures―fully updated for current practices and regulations

This thoroughly revised guide shows, step by step examples, how to calculate load paths―including for wind and seismic forces―in complicated structures. Written by a team of seasoned structural engineers and a certified building official, The Analysis of Irregular Shaped Structures: Wood Diaphragms and Shear Walls, Second Edition contains clear explanations of current topics, including cross laminated timber (CLT). You will get thorough coverage of newly developed structure types and new design solutions. The book has been overhauled to reflect the most recent codes and standards, including ASCE 7-16, 2021 IBC, and 2021 SDPWS.

Comprehensive coverage includes:

• Code sections and analysis
• Diaphragm basics
• Diaphragms with intermediate offsets
• Diaphragms with vertical offsets
• Diaphragms with openings
• Open front, cantilever diaphragms
• Complex diaphragms with combined offsets and openings
• Standard shear walls
• Shear walls with openings
• Discontinuous and offset shear walls
• The portal frame
• CLT diaphragms
• CLT shear walls
• And much more

R. Terry Malone, PE, SE, is a licensed structural engineer in Washington, Oregon, and Arizona. He is a senior technical director of the Project Resources and Solutions Division of Woodworks.

Scott E. Breneman, PhD, PE, SE, is a licensed structural engineer and a professional engineer in the state of California, and a PE in the state of Washington. He is experienced with structural design, seismic rehabilitation, and peer review of building projects of all shapes and materials.  He is a senior technical director of the Project Resources and Solutions Division of Woodworks.  

Robert Rice, CBO, is currently the Operations Manager/Chief Building Official for Northwest Code Professionals providing building official and building department services for jurisdictions throughout Oregon. He previously served as a Building Official for Josephine County and Oregon Assistant State Building Official.